Alexandra Chesa-Ignacz, Dentist and Owner of Smile Design Dental Clinic, Romania

From art dreams to dentistry, Chesa-Ignacz Alexandra’s journey is one of courage and change; now balancing career, leadership, and motherhood with intention. Check out the interview to find out the full story.

1. Tell us a bit about yourself. How did your journey into dentistry begin? Was this a career you always envisioned for yourself, or did it unfold along the way?

My name is Chesa-Ignacz Alexandra, I’m 32 years old, and I’m a dentist. Interestingly, my journey into dentistry wasn’t something I had planned from the beginning. As a teenager, I was deeply passionate about art, and I even attended an art school and originally envisioned myself becoming an architect.

I was admitted to a high school focused on the arts, but at one point I made a completely unexpected decision to change direction and transfer to a science-focused program, specializing in biology and chemistry. It came as quite a surprise to my family, especially since there are no doctors in my background.

As I started studying biology and chemistry more in depth, I found myself increasingly drawn to the medical field. That’s when I decided to apply to Dental Medicine; and that’s how my journey into dentistry naturally unfolded.

2. How do you integrate both strength and feminine softness in your leadership and daily practice?

I believe strength and feminine softness are not opposites, but complementary qualities that shape the way I lead and practice every day. Strength, for me, means being decisive, maintaining high standards, and taking responsibility, especially in a clinical environment where patients rely on your clarity and confidence.

In leadership, this balance helps me build strong yet supportive relationships with my team. I can be firm when needed, but also approachable and attentive. I think the real power comes from knowing when to use each and allowing them to coexist naturally.

3. How has your definition of success evolved since becoming both a business owner and a mother?

Becoming both a business owner and a mother has completely reshaped my definition of success. In the past, I associated success mostly with professional achievements.

Today, success feels much more balanced and meaningful. It’s not just about what I accomplish professionally, but also about the quality of the time I spend with my family and being present as a mother. It’s about creating something sustainable: a business that grows while also allowing me to live a fulfilling personal life.

I’ve learned that success is no longer about doing everything perfectly, but about finding harmony between my roles. If I can show up fully for my patients, lead my team with clarity, and still be there for my child in a meaningful way, that, to me, is real success.

4. Have you ever felt judged for prioritizing yourself or your professional dreams alongside your family? How do you navigate the guilt that can sometimes come with that balance?

Yes, I think any woman who is both deeply committed to her career and her family has felt that kind of judgment at some point. Whether it comes from others or from within. There can be an unspoken expectation that you have to choose, or that excelling in one area means compromising the other.

I’ve definitely experienced moments of guilt, especially as a mother. But over time, I’ve learned to reframe that feeling. Part of my profession involves continuous education, attending courses regularly, and constantly learning new techniques. In those moments, I am consciously prioritizing my professional growth, and I explain to my daughter that “mommy needs to study.” I see it as an important lesson for her as well — that growth and dedication are part of life.

I remind myself that pursuing my professional goals doesn’t take away from my family; it actually adds to who I am. It makes me more fulfilled, more present, and ultimately a better role model for my child.

Instead of aiming for perfect balance every single day, I focus on being intentional with my time and energy. Some days are more focused on work, others on family, and that’s okay. Letting go of perfection and embracing flexibility has helped me navigate that guilt in a much healthier way.

5. What would you say to women who are building a career while raising a family and questioning whether they can truly have both?

I would tell them that yes, you can have both, but maybe not in the way you initially imagine, and not all at the same time or with perfect balance every day.

There will be seasons in your life when one area requires more of you than the other, and that doesn’t mean you’re failing. It simply means you’re adapting. The key is to define success on your own terms, not based on external expectations.

It’s also important to let go of the idea of perfection. You don’t have to be everything, everywhere, all at once. What truly matters is being present and intentional in whatever role you’re in at that moment.

I’ve been fortunate to build a team at my clinic made up of truly special and dedicated people — a team that feels like a second family. It’s so important in any business to be surrounded by people you can truly rely on, because that support allows you to maintain a balance between family and career. Thanks to their commitment, the clinic continues to run smoothly even when I need to step away to spend more time with my daughter.

And most importantly, don’t underestimate the example you’re setting. By following your ambitions while caring for your family, you’re showing your children what passion, resilience, and dedication look like in real life.