Renowned TV presenter, a woman of style and an inspiration to many, Irena Spirovska in an exclusive interview for Fashionel.
We spoke with her about how success looks through her eyes, what it means to stay true to yourself, and why a natural look is always the right choice for her. We also focused on her fashion choices and revealed how her 20-year collaboration with the established fashion brand ELENA LUKA.
Read the powerful message she has for March 8—the woman who constantly promotes authenticity and female strength in her daily work.
For several decades, you have been one of the most recognizable TV faces in Macedonia, radiating grace and positive energy. What is your recipe for success that keeps you relevant and interesting to the audience?
-First of all, thank you for the compliment. I believe the recipe for success is, above all, to love what we do, be dedicated to our work, and have a professional approach and attitude toward the field we have chosen.
You have worked on various shows—from music and entertainment to morning and family programs. Which format suits you best and why?
-I would say that every show, project, event, and TV engagement has its own beauty and presents a unique challenge, so I conclude that I find myself in the profession itself, rather than in a specific format.
You have been part of Alfa TV for many years. What has been your greatest professional satisfaction there?
-Challenges have been constantly present over the years…
If you had to point out one project you are most proud of realizing, what would it be and why?
-Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to participate in many projects, numerous shows, music festivals, and various events, but for me, the dearest and most significant project is the music show EDEN BAKNEZH, dedicated to Macedonian entertainment evergreens. I hosted the show together with actor Igor Angelov, which was a unique experience because the song introductions were essentially short acting dialogues. The format and production of the show, I believe, contributed greatly to bringing back to the stage the unjustly forgotten evergreen melodies from the 1960s to the 1990s. The musical arrangements were done by Blagoj Marotov, and the old songs were given a new shine by Nade Talevska, Andrijana Janevska, Sanja Levkova, Elena Petreska, Goran Naumovski, Joce Panov, and Gjorgji Krstevski. Of course, immense importance was held by everyone behind the cameras, the direction, and the editorial team preparing the show.
You are also a presenter at numerous festivals across the country. How do you prepare for such events, and what do you enjoy most about this type of hosting?
-For me, music festivals are a particularly beautiful and inspiring work format for many reasons, mainly because of the ceremonial nature of these music events and the opportunity to be on a big stage, speaking to a live audience in the hall… The festival stage requires hosts to have a glamorous and formal appearance, which is one reason I love working in this format. Besides preparing the script and text, serious preparation for stage presence and appearance is needed, making the whole process exciting, from preparations to the live performance and broadcast. Every festival is a unique experience… Folk Fest Valandovo, Ohrid Fest – Ohridski Trubaduri, Folk Fest Rosa, Leshočki Folk Fest, Pehčevo Brass Band Festival, the former festivals Cvetnici, Tetovo Festival, Folk Hit of the Year, etc…
You are known for your impeccable style. How did your collaboration with the fashion brand ELENA LUKA begin?
-I have been collaborating with ELENA LUKA for 20 years and greatly enjoy this partnership, which started with a few fashion shows where I had the privilege and pleasure of wearing ELENA LUKA designs. Later, the collaboration expanded to TV projects and festivals. ELENA LUKA has always been a pioneer of high fashion, glamour, and elegance on the domestic fashion scene, and over the years, it has established itself as a leading regional fashion brand. For me as a TV personality, this collaboration is extremely significant because ELENA LUKA always meets the needs and aesthetic criteria of different projects perfectly. Beyond that, I want to express special respect for Elena Pandeva as a person, particularly for her humanity and generosity, which I’ve witnessed many times through our collaboration and communication. On multiple occasions, I’ve seen her selfless and unconditional support for humanitarian projects, such as recently supporting dancers from the Eureka Dance Studio for their participation in the Special Olympics dance event in Turin this month. ELENA LUKA created special outfits for our representatives for this significant event representing Macedonia.
What attracts you most to ELENA LUKA creations, and how do you feel wearing them?
-ELENA LUKA creations captivate with the quality of materials, craftsmanship, and design, perfectly highlighting the female figure. Whenever I wear an ELENA LUKA outfit, I feel feminine, confident, and attractive. The elegance and glamorous appearance of the brand’s models create a sense of uniqueness.
How much do fashion and stage appearance affect the impression a host creates?
-It is clear that, besides eloquence, diction, and good speech, a certain aesthetic and culture of behavior and dressing are very important for TV presenters. There must be a balance between all these elements for the overall impression to be complete. In that regard, wardrobe choices for stage appearances, as well as how we wear them, are very important.
Do you have a favorite ELENA LUKA outfit that you’ve worn for a special occasion?
-Every ELENA LUKA creation is a story in itself; it’s really hard to pick a favorite because I am literally in love with every piece I have worn from this brand.
How do you perceive March 8 – as a day of celebration, a reminder of women’s rights, or something else?
-I see this holiday as a reminder that women deserve daily attention and respect. We must be aware of the importance and role of women in society, the home, family, and broader environment… Every woman is special and unique in her way, deserving respect and love. Only by respecting these values can we improve society and treatment of women.
What does it mean to you to be a successful and influential woman in Macedonian media?
-I have never experienced success as an imperative, nor have I been preoccupied with it. For me, the most important thing is to stay true to myself and my beliefs, give my best, and enjoy what I do. Regarding influence, I am glad I can set an example for younger generations for natural aging, without botox, silicone, or aesthetic procedures. Balanced nutrition, regular physical activity, and proper care for body and mind are what we should guide the younger ones toward…
Which women in history or your environment have inspired you the most?
-I have always found inspiration in real people around me, women who are active, brave, creative, and generously share their skills. Female energy can be very powerful, especially when women support each other.
How is the role of women in media changing today, in your view?
-I would say women have always had prominence in media, likely due to their beauty. Today, women are increasingly represented in management positions in media, which confirms their leadership and managerial qualities. I believe women are becoming more aware of their roles, potential, and contributions in every sphere of society.
What advice would you give young girls who want to pursue a career as a TV journalist or presenter?
-Be yourself, authentic, natural, and spontaneous. Work hard and be persistent; results will come naturally…
What message would you give to women balancing family and career who feel they are not yet equal participants in society?
-Every woman faces numerous challenges throughout her life. Although we are the gentler sex, we are extremely strong and persistent, able to handle life’s challenges, hide sadness behind a smile, and fight for those we love. Women should believe in themselves, trust their intuition, and always walk courageously toward their dreams.
Bojana Stevcheska