Transplants - Conversations With Women Thriving Abroad #6 From International Student to CEO | Milena Berry | Bulgaria → USA
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Oct 7, 2025 Milena Berry, co-founder and CEO of PowerToFly, shares her journey from Bulgaria to the U.S., navigating life as an immigrant woman in tech. She recounts arriving in NYC just before 9/11 and the challenges of breaking into the tech industry. Milena discusses the importance of remote work for inclusivity and her passion for advocating diversity. She offers insight into parenting four kids while managing a career, the beauty of her partner's transition, and her commitment to helping immigrant women succeed in their careers.
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From Bulgaria To NYU And Tech
- Milena left Bulgaria for college in the Netherlands and later moved to NYU's Interactive Telecommunications Program.
- Her varied background in business, art, and tech led her to stay in the U.S. and build a tech career.
Arriving In New York During 9/11
- Milena arrived in New York the week of September 11, 2001 and witnessed the attacks from Brooklyn.
- She stayed, created a September 11th sound art piece, and exhibited it later in Cuba.
Visa Routes And Early Tech Jobs
- Milena navigated U.S. work visas via an O visa and later marriage to obtain residency.
- Early jobs included manual testing and production roles that gradually put her into tech.