Articles > Immigrant to Innovator

Immigrant to Innovator

Slavitza Demaine’s journey to leadership in cleaning—powered by ISSA.

Grit. Determination. Drive. Add an “I can do this!” attitude to the mix, and you have an unstoppable force in the cleaning industry. Slavitza Demaine’s inspiring journey from North Macedonia to the New England area of the United States is a powerful testament to what a motivated individual can do.

Now a dynamic leader and manager at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU®), Demaine’s story illustrates how anyone, regardless of their background or starting point, can excel in their chosen career path—such as in the cleaning industry.

When Demaine first immigrated to the United States, she faced numerous uncertainties. The challenges of adapting to a new country, overcoming language barriers, and navigating cultural differences initially felt overwhelming. Yet, Demaine’s strong work ethic and her willingness to adapt allowed her to make significant career transitions. She eventually discovered a passion for the cleaning industry, where her dedication and perseverance led her to success.

As she progressed in her career, Demaine recognized the importance of professional development, mainly through training and certification. The ISSA training and certification programming she embraced played a crucial role in helping her acquire the skills and knowledge needed to rise above the challenges she encountered. Today, she leads a talented team at SNHU, emphasizing the importance of fostering leadership potential in others.

Demaine believes anyone can achieve their career goals with the right mindset and commitment to growth. Her story is a shining example of how the cleaning industry, often overlooked, provides ample opportunities for those willing to work hard and continuously improve. Whether through formal certifications or hands-on experience, Demaine’s journey demonstrates that with grit and drive, success is within reach for all.

Watch the entire interview at issa.com/slavitza.

               Jeff Cross is the media director of ISSA Media, which includes ISSA Today, Cleaning & Maintenance Management, and Cleanfax. He can be reached at [email protected] or 740-973-4236.

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BONUS VIDEO CONTENT: issa.com/slavitza

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