Meet Anna Nesterova | Entrepreneur, Medical Technology Consultant, Educator, Public Speaker

We had the good fortune of connecting with Anna Nesterova and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Anna, how has your background shaped the person you are today?
I was born in Central Asia and immigrated to Canada with my family at the age of 21. Growing up in a family of two doctors, I naturally absorbed a passion for medicine and helping others. Being raised by my mother after my father passed away—instilled in me resilience and determination. Watching her work tirelessly while raising two children on her own, I saw firsthand what perseverance and strength truly meant.

From a young age, I took on various jobs and side hustles to afford the things I wanted, which taught me independence and resourcefulness. Those experiences shaped my strong work ethic, reinforced my persistence, and deepened my belief that success comes from dedication and adaptability.

Additionally, growing up in a culture where community plays a central role has given me a unique perspective when navigating more individualistic societies. I’ve learned to balance both mindsets—embracing the strength of community and collaboration while also thriving in environments that prioritize self-reliance and personal ambition. This blend of perspectives continues to shape how I build relationships, lead teams, and approach challenges in both my personal and professional life.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
My specialty lies in growth strategy, commercialization of medical technology, and medical sales education, helping medical device companies successfully bring innovative products to market. I am committed to shaping the future of healthcare by providing consulting services through my company, AVA Medical, as well as through speaking engagements, university teaching, and my e-learning platform.

What sets me apart is my unique combination of hands-on industry experience. I’ve worked with a wide range of companies—from startups to large corporations, both domestic and international—giving me a well-rounded perspective on navigating industry challenges and rapidly evolving market. I have built an unconventional career in the medical device industry, continuously breaking stereotypes and seeking ways to expand my skill set and grow. My international experience also allows me to navigate cultural differences within teams and with my customer base, which I find essential in the era of the global economy, AI-driven advancements, and increasingly interconnected markets.

One of the things I’m most proud of is my willingness to take risks and say yes to opportunities, especially when I first started working for myself. Taking that leap into uncertainty was crucial, particularly as a young woman in the industry. I’ve always treated my employers’ businesses as if they were my own, which helped me develop an entrepreneurial mindset early in my career and gave me the confidence to make that leap.

I also took a risk when I started my YouTube channel and podcast entirely on my own—without a production team or prior media experience—but it paid off by helping me build a strong community, share valuable insights, and expand my reach in the industry.

Of course, not every project was a success, and not every investment I made yielded results. There were challenges, setbacks, and lessons learned the hard way. But I never let failure define me. Instead, I used each experience as an opportunity to adapt, refine my strategies, and push forward with even greater determination. What always came naturally, though, was my commitment to improving healthcare—a passion that deepened when I saw firsthand how the medical technologies I sold or helped bring to market directly benefited my own family members. Their treatment outcomes would have been very different without access to these innovations.

I also take great pride in my reputation for being straightforward, always keeping my clients’ best interests at heart while prioritizing patient well-being. Integrity and trust are at the core of everything I do. These values extend beyond my consulting work into every endeavour I pursue.

I am especially passionate about empowering women in business and technology. As a speaker, I frequently share my insights on breaking barriers, taking risks, and building a successful career on one’s own terms. I am also dedicated to mentoring and educating the next generation of medical technology professionals. As an instructor in a master’s program, I help students develop the skills, strategic thinking, and confidence needed to break into the industry. It’s incredibly rewarding to see aspiring professionals grow, overcome challenges, and find their path in this dynamic and evolving field. I have been there myself, and I remember how it feels to start a career in the real world—the uncertainty, the challenges, and the excitement.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I moved to California from Canada two years ago, and showing my friends and family around LA and Southern California has become second nature. You can imagine—it’s not hard to convince Canadians to escape the cold and soak up the sun, ocean, and palm trees! I did the same myself for many years—LA was always my quick and convenient getaway from the snow.

When I travel, I like to plan just enough and leave room for spontaneity. But if I were putting together a week-long itinerary, I’d make sure to include a mix of culture, food, and relaxation.

Some of my must-visit spots in LA:

-LACMA
-The Broad Museum
-Grammy Museum – a must for music lovers
-Griffith Observatory – stunning views of the city, especially at sunset
-If someone’s up for a hike, I’d take them to the Hollywood Sign trail

For beaches, I’d take my guests to Santa Monica, Manhattan Beach, and Hermosa Beach, depending on the vibe they’re looking for. I’d also plan a day trip to Long Beach or Newport Beach for a change of scenery.

For entertainment, Universal Studios never fails, and catching a concert or performance at the Hollywood Bowl is always a magical experience. I love live concerts and electronic music, so I’d also check if any DJs or rock bands are playing in LA. If anyone’s traveling with kids (or is just a big kid at heart), Disneyland is an obvious must-do.

For food, I’d choose Blu Jam Cafe and Menotti’s for breakfast. Menotti’s is located in Venice, which makes it perfect for spending a day in that area. I’d go to Élephante and Baltaire for an upscale dinner, The Butcher’s Daughter and Crossroads for vegetarian meals, and Alice Wine & Friends and Levant Mediterranean for a casual lunch or dinner. For craft cocktails, Death & Co is a fantastic speakeasy. I would also take my guests to Sam First Jazz Club and Bar, it has a fantastic vibe. LA offers something for every taste and budget, making it a perfect destination for foodies.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
There have been many people—family, friends, colleagues, and mentors—who have shaped my path and contributed to my growth. Success is never a solo journey, and I am deeply grateful to everyone who has played a role in mine.

But first and foremost, I dedicate my shoutout to my mother. Her resilience, hard work, and unwavering belief in me laid the foundation for who I am today. Watching her navigate life’s challenges—first as a single mother, then as an immigrant—with strength and grace inspired me to push forward, no matter the obstacles. She never stopped learning, adapting, and reinventing herself, mastering new skills and even new professions. She showed me firsthand how one person can redefine themselves, set their own rules in life, and take full accountability for their actions and results. Her journey has been my greatest example of perseverance and self-determination.

Instagram: @anna_nesteroff

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/a-nesterova/

Twitter: @anna_nesteroff

Youtube: @annanesterova

Image Credits
Image credits to @tanya_beloved