Patricia Pavlekovic – A Dancer’s Journey to Luxury

Long-term Monaco resident Patricia Pavlekovic has never shied away from pursuing her ambitions. Her journey, spanning from the elegance of the ballet stage to her establishment as an independent and self-sufficient woman in the glamorous Principality of Monaco, serves as an inspiring testament to positive determination.

Life is about choices

Born in Rijeka, a Croatian port city in the northern Adriatic Sea, Patricia Pavlekovic’s journey began at a young age, when her artistic talents were recognised and nurtured by her mother, setting her on a path of creative exploration. 

“At the tender age of five, my mother had already enrolled me in ballet classes alongside music school. The arts captured my interest at a young age, and my mother’s encouragement of my creative talents inspired me to pursue this path with determination,” – remembers Patricia back.

As a child, Patricia kept a hectic schedule, attending daily ballet classes at a Russian ballet school after her regular school hours, along with guitar and singing lessons at the music school.

Looking back on these years, do you recommend such musical education to young children?

“Ballet and music are wonderful for any girl. Based on my own journey with ballet and music, I highly recommend musical education for young children. It not only stimulates their creativity, social skills, emotional growth, and intellectual abilities but also instills discipline and a deep appreciation for artistic expression from a young age.”

By the age of 19, as part of one of the premier dance groups in Europe, Patricia was competing pretty much all around the world.

“We competed as a group, achieving remarkable success together. For instance, we won eight awards at the World Dance Championship in Las Vegas. 

Dancing as a team was a shared experience where it wasn’t about me or you, but us. We trained together, competed together, and created unforgettable memories as a team. Dance was excellent preparation for life, teaching me the value of teamwork.”

The team achieved such greatness that their dance videos were featured in rotation on MTV, marking a true international breakthrough.

At the same time, Patricia began modelling for several Croatian photographers, quickly capturing attention with her poise and elegance. 

At the age of 19, she was honoured to win a national beauty pageant, a milestone that fueled her ambitions for international experiences. During this period, she made a life-changing decision that paved new roads for Patricia.

“My career as a dancer was incredibly rewarding. However, I faced significant decisions regarding my professional path. 

I frequently asked myself, “What’s next? Should I continue in this direction or pursue a more business-oriented career?” I was determined to create a stable future for myself.”

Driven by a thirst for growth and adventure, Patricia left behind her dance career to pursue university studies abroad, starting in Spain and later continuing in Monaco. 

Monaco, a great “accident”

Patricia started her university studies in Andalusia, a region of hills, rivers, and farmland in Spain, a place where she loved to be surrounded by nature and international people.

Immersing herself in the global scene, Patricia dedicated the next decade to hard work and perseverance, steadily climbing the career ladder.

How did Monaco come into the picture?

“It was a complete accident. Life brought me here because of my studies. I chose the International University of Monaco to finish my master’s degree in International Business Management. 

I attempted to go elsewhere many times, hoping for different life choices, but somehow, life always redirected me back here. It’s been 12 years now.”

You travelled a lot as a professional dancer. Have you visited the Principality of Monaco before?

“To be honest, I’ve only been in transit on my way to Spain. It was my first time actually spending time here when I came to study.”

What was your first impression of the country?

“The opulence was quite striking to me, as I had never been accustomed to such luxury before. 

Additionally, I noticed that English was not widely spoken, prompting me to realise the necessity of learning French to establish myself here, which I promptly did.”

Building a career

Upon completing her master’s degree, Patricia serendipitously embarked on a career in the yachting industry, a natural fit given Monaco’s reputation as the global hub of superyachts. 

She began her yachting career in 2014, working as a sales and charter assistant under Pierre de Cancellis in the serene setting of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat on the French Riviera.

How did you land this opportunity?

“It was quite serendipitous — I met Pierre de Cancellis at the Bal de Noël at the Hôtel de Paris Monte-Carlo. Our conversation led to an internship opportunity, which marked the beginning of my journey in the yachting industry.”

What was your main role?

“My roles encompassed assistance in sales, purchase, new construction, management assistance, and organising and booking worldwide yacht charters.

This experience culminated in the sale of a 33.48 metre Mangusta 108 luxury yacht, Ohana, on the final day of the Cannes Yacht Show, where Pierre and I represented both the buyer and the seller. This journey introduced me to remarkable clients and unforgettable experiences.”

Another notable chapter evolved for Patricia when she was working for the renowned interior designer, Daniela Boutsen. 

“Her expertise in luxury products, particularly in designing interiors for private aircraft, yachts, and luxury residences, inspired me deeply. 

This experience culminated in my greatest achievement: M/Y Elixir, an Amels 55m yacht, which, in collaboration with Laura Sessa, won the exclusive Baccarat SuperYacht World Trophy at the Monaco Yacht Show in 2016.”

Thanks to this opportunity, Patricia’s career has led her to international trade and yacht shows, broadening her horizons and enhancing her expertise.

Did you like the charter side of yachting or more the creative interior design side?

“It is very different, but I lean towards Daniela’s approach because it allows for a deeper connection with my feminine side through delicate and refined decoration. It’s not just about interior design but also about creating a decorous ambiance. Adding that feminine touch becomes the final flourish that enhances the beauty of others’ homes.”

Amidst the bustling scenes and luxury yachts at the Monaco Yacht Show in 2018, a pivotal moment unfolded. Patricia encountered a charismatic woman, the former wife of a legendary (former) Formula 1 boss. This encounter led to an invitation to join her in managing her lifestyle, a role Patricia embraced wholeheartedly, drawn in by their shared Croatian background.

“It was a lovely experience, reminiscent of finding a home away from home. In the midst of navigating the complexities of life and feeling alone in my journey, meeting this lovely lady felt like finding a connection. It was a delightful experience assisting her lifestyle and helping her settle in Monaco.“

Subsequently, Patricia, who had amassed extensive experience and by this time was proficient in five languages (Croatian, English, Italian, Spanish, and French), was sought after for a new role to assist a family office in Monaco. 

You worked in such amazing sectors and with some of the most influential people in Monaco. Do you miss any of your previous jobs?

“I cherish the memories from each of those experiences, yet I do not long for them because they have imparted invaluable lessons and enriched my professional journey. 

There’s an inner passion within me to constantly evolve, and I feel I’ve gained extensive knowledge from each of those unique experiences.”

So settling in Monaco was the right choice.

“Monaco has always had a magnetic pull on me, a place I have no intention of leaving anytime soon. Having worked for some of the most prominent ultra-high-net-worth individuals, my career today is centred in the family office sector.”

How do you see female entrepreneurs here in Monaco?

“The Principality is known for fostering a supportive environment for entrepreneurship and has seen an increase in women-led businesses in recent years. I believe it offers promising opportunities for growth, with doors waiting to be opened. It would be nice to see more women take a bit of the stage,” – she winks.

What was the best advice you ever received from your employers?

“That’s a very good question. I think nothing is impossible. I was lucky to witness throughout my career that with the right mindset, there is always a way to achieve things.”

More than a decade in Monaco

Patricia immersed herself in the Principality for over a decade, exploring some of its most thrilling aspects.

How would you compare this lifestyle to Croatia?

“In Croatia, the lifestyle is characterised by its humble, down-to-earth provincial coastal living. People in my hometown embrace a simple lifestyle. In contrast, Monaco stands out for its opulence and sophistication.”

Do you visit your family often?

“I don’t have a large family—just my mom, who visits me regularly, and our close bond makes her visits particularly special.”  

What is your favourite sport in Monaco?

“I love horseback riding. It is just great to get out to the surrounding mountains and be part of nature. Riding a beautiful white horse and feeling the fresh breeze transports me to my dream land.”

Do you miss dancing?

“I really do. You know, whenever I am going through challenging days, I turn on the music and dance. It helps me express my feelings and heals me. Recently, I formed a dance group with my friends. We gather weekly to craft diverse choreographies. I truly love music and dancing.” 

Since you studied ballet, do you often go to the Opera House in Monaco?

“Sometimes I do. But my greatest passion is actually Latin dances, particularly rumba, although I never had a chance to practice it because there wasn’t a Latin dance school nearby in any location I lived, so I had to learn it online. It’s an incredibly emotional and passionate dance, reflecting everything I feel inside.” 

Through ballet, modelling, yachting, and luxury management, Patricia’s life journey continues to evolve, blending grace, ambition, and a love for the extraordinary. This inspiring young woman shows that passion and dedication can pave the way and navigate us through life.

What’s the next step or desire in your life?

“Well, imagination isn’t my problem; I’ve got a whole list of things I still want to accomplish. Just recently, I returned to my roots in modelling, partnering with Olga Barrale, the founder of Haute Models in Monaco. Our mutual friends and shared vision have paved the way for exciting future collaborations.”

For more than a decade, Olga Barrale has been involved in the most prestigious events in the Principality of Monaco. Using her vast experience, she founded Haute Models, the only authorised modelling agency in the Principality of Monaco.

From runway to print, Haute Models is always scouting new talent and working alongside established professionals to create dynamic visuals. Their clients include high-end brands, fashion magazines, advertising campaigns, and events. Dedicated to quality and excellence, the team boasts a passionate, knowledgeable, and experienced network of talent.

During the past 12 years, you have worked hard on your career and established yourself and your reputation in business. Why did you turn again towards modelling?

“I returned to modelling while pursuing my business career because I value nurturing passions beyond work. 

Modeling was pivotal during my ballet days and now lets me express creativity alongside structured business pursuits. It’s been a lifelong passion since my youth, intertwined with dance. It’s hard to run away from your roots, right?,” – smiles Patricia. 

Where do you see the biggest personal growth in your life?

“I’ve always had a voracious appetite for knowledge and thrived on challenges because they keep me motivated every day. However, I’ve realised that I often didn’t fully appreciate the moments. Reflecting on the past years, this is one thing I regret. 

Currently, I’m living in the moment and not chasing the future. I’m content with where I am now and actually embracing and enjoying it.” 

What would your advice be for a young woman dreaming of coming to Monaco?

“Just go for it. Don’t have doubts, because there’s no such thing as the right moment. Pursue your dreams, whether it’s in Monaco or on the other side of the world, across the ocean.” 

Do you have any unfulfilled dreams?

“One of my unfulfilled aspirations is to dance the tango in Argentina, but finding the right partner for this dance form has proven to be quite a challenge,” – laughs Patricia. 

There are a lot of men in Monaco.

“It is not as easy as it seems. I admire chivalry and timeless principles, which are becoming rarer today. I value sincerity and authenticity and appreciate individuals who are genuine and charming, embodying values reminiscent of classic romance.” 

Patricia is a true pearl in the ocean of Monaco; her journey is underscored by grace, ambition, and a profound love for the extraordinary. 

Through deliberate choices of challenging paths, she has cultivated a reputation for resilience, self-reliance, and a determined spirit.