Monica Puiu has always known that she was meant for the stage. Her love story with the performing arts began when she was just a child in kindergarten. While most kids were shy or nervous, young Monica was always the one confidently taking on the biggest roles during winter and summer celebrations.
“My mom always says I was the one jumping into the spotlight,” Monica laughs. “I have to take her word for it because there are only a few photos left from those times.”
But the real turning point came when she took her first exam to enter first grade at the Arts High School. Ironically, she didn’t plan to attend this school for the arts. Her mother simply wanted her to have the same teacher as her brother. However, fate stepped in and that school became the foundation for Monica’s lifelong journey into art, beauty, and performance.
Inspired by “Not So Great” MCs
Monica has been part of the events industry for a long time, but her big break as an MC had an unexpected beginning. She admits that her inspiration didn’t come from top performers but rather from MCs who, to her surprise, weren’t that impressive.
“Don’t laugh,” she says. “But you know that feeling when you see someone doing something and you think I could totally do that, maybe even better? That’s exactly what happened to me.”
This realization gave Monica the push she needed to step into the world of presenting. She found a unique freedom on stage, combining her love for performing with her passion for connecting with people. Being able to deliver her client’s message, energize the audience, and witness their joy at the end of an event is what makes every moment worth it for her.
A Defining Moment with a UAE Icon
While every event is special to Monica, one stands out as a true highlight of her career. Recently, she had the honor of presenting at the “Make it in the Emirates” exhibition, where she introduced His Excellency Dr. Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology of the UAE.
Years ago, she had seen him while working as a hostess and was deeply impressed by his presence and integrity. Fast forward to today, being the one introducing him on stage felt surreal.
“I’m not the kind of person who gets starstruck by celebrities,” she explains. “But if I was, this would have felt like introducing Kim Kardashian and her entire family.”
That moment symbolized not just a professional milestone but also how far she had come from her days as a shy school performer.
A Journey of Courage and Faith
Monica Puiu’s presenting journey officially started two years ago. Even though she knew she could succeed, she didn’t have the traditional proof. She had no videos of her presenting live on stage.
She had plenty of other experiences, including interviewing people, starring in an award-winning short film, leading music videos, and presenting company profiles. But nothing exactly like what the job demanded.
“The biggest challenge was convincing people I could do it without actual proof,” she admits.
Fortunately, some people believed in her potential and gave her that first big chance. That trust pushed her to deliver outstanding results, something she never takes for granted.
Summer Break for the Soul
Right now, Monica Puiu is enjoying her summer break, a well-deserved pause during the off-season for events. She jokes that she and the school kids share the same vacation schedule.
But this break is more than just rest. It is a time for her to return to Romania, reconnect with her family and friends, and most importantly, focus on herself.
“This is my time for inner work,” she shares. “I reflect on my dreams, my passions, and where I want to grow next. It is all about aligning with what I want to offer the world moving forward.”
Flexibility: The Biggest Lesson
One of the most important lessons Monica Puiu has learned is the value of flexibility. While some events run smoothly, most big ones come with unexpected changes and last-minute surprises. Over time, she has mastered the art of staying calm and adapting quickly, ensuring the audience never notices any hiccups.
She even keeps cue cards from the most chaotic events as souvenirs, a reminder of her ability to stay graceful under pressure.
“Even though I am very strict about punctuality, this industry has taught me that the only constant is change,” she says.
A Legacy of Inspiration and Joy
For Monica, her mission goes beyond just entertaining people. She wants to inspire, uplift, and bring joy. Whether it is making someone smile, helping them overcome their fear of public speaking, or just making the atmosphere feel light and welcoming, that is the true impact she wants to leave behind.
“I want to be remembered as someone who combined harmony with results,” she says. “Someone who made a high-pressure industry feel enjoyable and helped others find their confidence.”
Advice to Young Monica: Move to Dubai Sooner
If Monica Puiu could give advice to her younger self, she would tell her to move to Dubai earlier and follow her dreams without hesitation.
However, she believes that every step of her journey, including her time in Western Europe, played a role in shaping who she is today. Without those experiences, she might not have truly appreciated what Dubai had to offer.
“Dubai has given me so much, opportunities, inclusion, safety, and above all, respect for people who work hard,” she says proudly. “It is an honor to call it my second home.”
The Future Shines Bright
As she enjoys her summer break and reflects on her journey, one thing is clear. Monica Puiu’s story is far from over. With her passion, resilience, and genuine love for connecting with people, she is ready to take on new stages, bigger audiences, and even greater challenges.
From her kindergarten performances to presenting in front of top UAE leaders, Monica’s journey proves that dreams, when fueled by hard work and courage, can truly come true.
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