Ep401: Embracing Elegance in Modern Times with International Etiquette Consultant, Author, Entrepreneur, and Mother Jamila Musayeva

Growing up in a multilingual and multi-religious household, Jamila was exposed to diverse traditions and customs from an early age. She spoke Azerbaijani, Russian, and English, and later picked up French and Spanish. Her parents’ love for travel further fueled her curiosity about how people lived differently across the globe.

 

Academic Pursuits and Early Inspirations

At just 16, Jamila moved to the United States to attend George Washington University, where she studied Diplomacy and International Relations. It was here that she first encountered the professional world of etiquette during a master workshop at the Etiquette School in Washington. This experience ignited a spark in her, although it would take years and further education in Europe for her to fully realize her passion for etiquette.

While pursuing her master’s degree in European Union Administration and Politics, Jamila became fascinated by the cultural differences between the U.S. and Europe, especially in work-life balance and social norms. This interest laid the groundwork for her future career in etiquette.

 

From Diplomacy to Etiquette

Upon returning to Azerbaijan, Jamila began teaching at the Azerbaijan Diplomatic Academy. Here, she noticed a gap in the education of young professionals: they were well-versed in economics, politics, and international relations, but lacked the social skills necessary for a global environment. This realization led her to pursue a certification in etiquette and eventually establish herself as an etiquette consultant.

 

Modernizing Etiquette

Jamila’s approach to etiquette is anything but archaic. She believes that etiquette evolves with societal norms and modern living. Her YouTube channel, which recently surpassed one million subscribers, is a testament to the relevance of etiquette in today’s world. Through her videos, she debunks myths about etiquette being outdated and emphasizes its importance in contemporary society.

“Etiquette is about being considerate and kind towards others, not about faking behavior,” Jamila explains. She highlights that while certain practices have changed, the core principles of respect and politeness remain constant. For instance, children are now welcomed at dining tables, a stark contrast to past norms where they were excluded.

 

Popular Topics and Teachings

Jamila’s teachings cover a wide range of topics, from dining etiquette to body language and social media etiquette. Her most popular content includes practical skills such as formal dining etiquette, job interview tips, and elegant living. Her course on Western formal dining etiquette, which guides learners from entering a restaurant to toasting at a dinner, is particularly well-received.

 

Embracing Femininity and Professional Success

One of Jamila’s core messages is that women can embrace their femininity while achieving professional success. She challenges the notion that strength is a masculine trait, arguing that women are inherently strong, especially in enduring physical pain and managing multiple roles.

“Strength is not a masculine thing. Strength is actually, I believe, women are so much stronger,” she asserts. Jamila encourages women to maintain their elegance and values, even in male-dominated industries.

 

Personal Philosophy and Inspiration

Jamila’s philosophy is deeply rooted in her belief in self-respect and authenticity. She strives to be a role model for younger generations, demonstrating that it is possible to balance a successful career with personal values and femininity. She believes in the power of staying true to oneself and not conforming to societal trends that demand compromise on personal principles.

“Living an unconventional life means staying true to yourself and not being afraid to stand up for what you believe in,” she says.

 

Giving Back and Future Plans

Jamila’s commitment to education extends beyond her online presence. She offers courses, books, and a unique etiquette movie club on Patreon, where she analyzes films from an etiquette perspective. Her latest book, “The Art of Entertaining at Home,” and her upcoming projects aim to continue her mission of making etiquette accessible and relevant.

Jamila Musayeva is not just an etiquette consultant; she is a bridge between tradition and modernity. Her work proves that etiquette is not about rigid rules but about fostering respect, kindness, and understanding in our interactions.

Through her teachings, Jamila is helping to elevate human consciousness and enhance the quality of life for individuals around the world. As she continues to inspire with her elegance and wisdom, Jamila Musayeva is undoubtedly leaving a lasting impact on the world of etiquette and beyond.

 

More of Jamila:

Hi, I’m Jules
I’m Jules, founder of Unconventional Life, born from a dream after a near-death experience seven years ago. As a 2x TEDx speaker, global event host, multi-millionaire entrepreneur, and artist, I’m passionate about guiding you to unleash your soul’s greatest gifts. Together with my two sisters, I’ve expanded UL’s mission by co-creating Pink Lemon Agency, a creative marketing agency designed to help bring bold visions to life.
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