When Slava first made his way to Dubai, he was on a laid-back mission to discover himself. Think freelance gigs, spinning tracks as a DJ, and soaking in the electric energy of the city. It didn’t take long for him to spot a gap in the vibrant creative market. “Launching Sur Agency was a natural step,” he reflects. “But honestly, finding the right partners was a surprise! It’s like the universe pushes you towards what’s meant to be.” Fast forward a year and a half, and his team has blossomed to over 20 talented folks, all bringing their unique flair to the table.
Now, don’t get him wrong—success didn’t just fall into his lap. Slava is all about teamwork and collaboration. “The idea of the lone genius is a myth,” he says with a grin. “Creativity is more about leading and inspiring a team. It’s a group effort!”
But we all know that the creative process isn’t always a smooth ride. Slava has had his fair share of creative blocks, and his secret weapon? A little break to clear the mind. “If you’re feeling trapped, just step away. Grab a coffee, go for a ride, or lie on the grass—whatever it takes to reset your brain,” he recommends. And if you’re on the hunt for some fresh perspectives, he swears by classics like *The Artist’s Way* by Julia Cameron and *Thinkertoys* by Michael Michalko.
Now, fashion—a world where Slava truly shines! He describes it as a personal adventure rather than just surface looks. “Behind every ‘fashion ninja,’ there’s a story of trial and error,” he says. Slava has moved beyond the fleeting trends, curating a wardrobe filled with stories and unique pieces that resonate with his personal growth. “For me, fashion is all about self-expression. It’s an extension of who you are at any given moment.”
But let’s dive into something really personal: mental health. He’s open about his struggles with burnout and depression, acknowledging how crucial it was for him to reach out for professional support. “Trust me, I’ve felt the weight of the world on my shoulders,” he shares candidly. “Understanding how to manage my mind and body was key—I had to develop tools to keep my mental balance in check.”
Discipline is at the core of Slava’s wellness philosophy. It might seem like an odd pairing for a creative spirit, but he believes in the power of good sleep, nutritious food, exercise, and nurturing hobbies. “You’d be surprised how a structured foundation can support your creative journey,” he says. “And let’s not forget the importance of having a support squad—friends, family, or a community can make all the difference.”
So, for those eager to venture into the creative or fashion industries, Slava has three golden nuggets of advice:
1. **Experiment Relentlessly:** Try new things until you find what clicks.
2. **Stay Open to Inspiration:** Inspiration is everywhere; keep your eyes peeled!
3. **Find Your Tribe:** Surround yourself with people who lift you up.
For Slava, the artist’s journey is anything but simple, but it’s a wild ride filled with learning moments, self-discovery, and the occasional pit stop for reflection. “Trust the process,” he reminds us. “The ups and downs are part of the adventure.”
At the end of the day, Slava Gee is much more than a creative director or style guru; he’s a reminder that embracing vulnerability and self-care can coexist beautifully with ambition. His journey is a testament to the fact that the path to success is about nurturing your mind and spirit, all while enjoying the ride. So, here’s to Slava—an inspiring figure who proves that creativity, resilience, and a good dose of humor can create magic in this fast-paced world!
YOU CAN FOLLOW HIM ON @SLAVAGEE
