Corina Hampu Hrom: I had to take on various jobs to make ends meet, but I never lost my passion for storytelling

Corina Hampu Hrom is a Protection Adviser expert, a journalist, and a specialist in communications and PR. She has extensive experience in advising and protecting clients from various risks, as well as creating and delivering engaging content for various media outlets. She is also the founder of „Terapie pentru suflet”, a non-profit organisation that provides emotional support and counselling to people in need. She is passionate about helping the Romanian community and the migrants of other nationalities overcome their camera fears and introduce themselves in social media through video podcasting at Cam Cam Studios. She is also the host of various entrepreneurial events.

C&B: Provide a description or define your business activity!

Corina Hampu Hrom: As a Protection Adviser, I help people in my community and not only, to achieve financial clarity and security. I provide tailored advice and protection plans based on their individual needs and goals, covering various risks such as life, health, income, and property. I am passionate about personal development, and I regularly attend or present events that inspire and empower people to grow and thrive. This is also the place (Cam Cam Studios), where we offer video production and PR for the Romanian community and immigrants, to bring their business to the next level. Other project that I am involved in is Terapie pentru Suflet, and we have a Facebook group that offers free support for women who suffer from postnatal depression, domestic abuse, or toxic relationships. Terapie pentru Suflet is a collaboration between me, Cam Cam Studios, and Gabi Metiu, a wonderful therapist who works with many mothers in the UK. Through this project, we aim to address various topics related to therapy, such as toxic relationships, domestic violence, anxiety, postnatal depression, and more. I believe that by offering this service, we can make a positive difference in the lives of many women who need support and guidance.

C&B: What is the story of the evolution of your business?

Corina Hampu Hrom: My business journey began as a journalist in Romania, where I worked for five years before moving to the UK. Like many immigrants, I had to take on various jobs to make ends meet, but I never lost my passion for storytelling. Six years ago, I became a Protection Adviser, helping people secure their financial future.

In 2020, I started a podcast with some friends as a hobby, using a local Romanian TV station in London as our platform. We talked about various topics that interested us and our listeners, from culture to politics to entertainment. To continue producing this podcast, I teamed up with, Ciprian Ionut, one of my friends and my business partner and we opened our own studio: Cam Cam Studios. Our mission is to provide a space for honest and meaningful conversations that can help our audience heal and grow. We believe that everyone has a story to tell, and we want to be the ones who listen and amplify their voices.

One day, we had a guest named Gabi Metiu, a therapist who shared his insights on the mental health needs of the Romanian community in the UK. Her words resonated with me and that’s how Terapie pentru suflet, (Therapy for the soul) the non-profit organisation was born.

C&B: What were your visions in childhood/adolescence, and what are they now?

Corina Hampu Hrom: When I was a child, I used to imagine myself becoming a teacher. I loved the idea of sharing knowledge and inspiring others to learn new things. I would often play pretend school with my friends and my dad, and I enjoyed making lesson plans and quizzes.

As I grew older, I became more interested in psychology. I wanted to understand how people think, feel, and behave, and how to help them overcome their challenges and achieve their goals. I was fascinated by the human mind and its potential. I decided to pursue a career as a psychologist, but than I decided to become a journalist instead.

Now, I think I have managed to accomplish more than I ever dreamed of. I am not only a journalist, but also a philanthropist, a storyteller, and a Protection Adviser which goes above and beyond for her clients. I have combined all my visions and passions. I help people improve their financial choices, I doing my best to inspire other people through storytelling, I present personal development events and I do my best to educate and motivate others. I am very happy and fulfilled with what I do, and I hope to continue making a positive impact on the world.

C&B: What are the life and business principles you adhere to, and what is their explanation?

Corina Hampu Hrom: Sharing knowledge with others, to help people as best as I can throughout my experience and knowledge, is one of the life and business principles that I adhere to. I love people and I love sharing with others, because I believe that knowledge is power, and that by sharing it, I can empower others to achieve their dreams and make a positive impact on the world. For example, I do a lot of volunteer work and help a lot of people free of charge. I like integrity, equality, equity, and authenticity and this is what I am trying to offer my audience. This is how I apply my principle in my life and business. Not judging others is also a very important aspect of my life, personally and professionally. Stick to my own business and focus upon my goals and objectives.

This is how no one will ever fail.

C&B: How have the pandemic, economic crises, and wars influenced/influence your business?

Corina Hampu Hrom: The pandemic, economic crises, and wars have been challenging times for many people and businesses, but I have learned to see the good side of what can look bad. Instead of focusing on the negative aspects, I have tried to find the opportunities and benefits that these situations can offer. For example, during the pandemic, people were even more interested in family financial plans, which is one of the services that I provide. I was able to help many families secure their financial future and cope with the uncertainty. Another example is that the pandemic was the time when I started podcasting, which is another way of sharing my knowledge and experience with others. Podcasting has allowed me to reach a wider audience and create a different way of growing. Therefore, I can’t say that my business fields were affected negatively by war, pandemic or the economic crisis. On the contrary, I have used these challenges as opportunities to grow and improve my business.

C&B: Share some amusing situations from your business activities!

Corina Hampu Hrom: Oh, the laughter-filled moments in my business journey! While I can’t pinpoint one specific incident, I believe humor is a universal language, and I love making people around me burst into laughter.

Now, in the field of protection advising, there have been some eyebrow-raising situations. It happened a few times when clients attempted to make claims for a superficial scratch, trying to pass it off as a major injury. It’s amusing, although a little bit creative, how some people navigate the insurance world.

Ah, the podcasting world, where sometimes the unexpected becomes the norm! I once had a client who came in all enthusiastic to record a video podcast. We kicked off the recording with great energy and engaging conversation. However, to my surprise, after just three minutes into the session, they suddenly announced, “I hope we’re done because I don’t have any more time!”

It was one of those moments where you find yourself in a position of confusion and amusement. I couldn’t help but laughing at the irony of the situation. Here we were, ready for a podcast session, and it turned out to be the shortest recording in podcasting history. It became a lighthearted anecdote, and we all shared a good laugh about the unexpected of that particular recording session.

I also find it amusing when people try to undermine my work by leaving hate comments or spreading gossips. It’s funny because it shows their inability to appreciate or understand the value of what I do, and it only reflects their own insecurities.

In general, I believe there are always funny moments in business activities if we have a lighthearted perspective and a sense of humor. Laughter can bring people together and make work more enjoyable.

C&B: You’re face to face with a potential client or partner. What is the sentence that convinces them?

Corina Hampu Hrom: Ah, I see you’re interested in hearing my approach to convincing potential clients or partners. Allow me to provide you with an example tailored for the financial field and another for the world of podcasting.

In the financial field, it’s crucial to make individuals aware of the risks they face on a daily basis and the potential risks their families may be exposed to without a proper family protection plan. I’m not attempting to persuade anyone, but rather, I aim to emphasize the importance of understanding these circumstances. If someone is not already aware of these risks, my goal is to ensure they have the necessary information to make informed decisions. It’s not about pushing a sale, but rather, it’s about creating awareness.

Now, let’s shift our focus to podcasting. Not everyone may be interested in the services I provide, and that’s perfectly alright. When it comes to podcasting, I simply communicate the unique value we bring to the table. We offer a comprehensive experience that goes beyond just the video podcast itself. We help individuals overcome camera fears, establish a strong presence on social media through engaging video content, and provide an authentic experience by answering questions live without any pre-scripting. Furthermore, we offer PR support and even provide one free consultancy session on video posts for social media. It’s like being their very first experience, especially for entrepreneurs who may not have had much exposure to video social media.

Remember, my intention is never to convince or push anyone into something they don’t want. I am here to provide information, create awareness, and showcase the value we can offer.

C&B: What advice/tips do you have for those just starting out or undecided?

Corina Hampu Hrom: Ah, for those who are just starting out or feeling undecided, I have a few pieces of advice and tips to offer. It’s natural to feel uncertain at times, but with the right approach and mindset, you can navigate these waters more confidently.

Firstly, I would suggest exploring various resources available to help discover your mission in life. There are numerous tests and assessments designed to assist individuals in uncovering their passions, strengths, and purpose. Taking some time to engage with these tools can provide valuable insights and help guide you towards a clearer direction.

However, it’s important to remember that finding your mission in life is a journey that requires perseverance and discipline. It may not happen overnight, and that’s perfectly alright. Stay committed to the process, keep exploring different interests, and be patient with yourself as you uncover your true calling.

Additionally, surrounding yourself with valuable people is crucial. Seek out individuals who uplift, support, and inspire you. Surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals who share similar goals and aspirations can provide motivation and guidance along the way. Be mindful of those who may waste your precious time or hinder your progress, and make an effort to cultivate relationships with those who genuinely contribute to your growth.

Remember, the path may not always be clear, but by exploring your passions, staying disciplined, and surrounding yourself with the right people, you can navigate the journey towards discovering your mission in life with greater confidence and purpose.

C&B: What are your perceptions of society and its evolution?

Corina Hampu Hrom: My perceptions of society and its evolution are shaped by a blend of optimism and concern. I strongly believe that our focus on education needs a recalibration. It’s not just about education for the sake of it but a call for specific, targeted education in diverse fields. Tailoring education to individual passions and skills can unlock unparalleled potential and innovation. In the fast-paced world we live in, taking time for ourselves has become a rarity. It might sound like a cliché, but it’s essential to pause and breathe. We’re caught up in a constant pursuit of higher salaries, positions, and a seemingly “higher” life. However, it’s crucial to understand that true fulfillment comes from living our lives, not just chasing after things. Making time for family, holidays, relaxation, or meditation is not a luxury; it’s a necessity for our well-being. As we evolve, the digitalization of everything has become inevitable. While it may be daunting for some, it’s a reality we should have seen coming. Science fiction movies from decades ago predicted flying spaceships and futuristic landscapes by the year 2020. Instead of fearing the digital age, we should embrace the opportunities it brings. Evolution, in this sense, is not only inevitable but also a testament to our ability to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing world. In essence, let’s refocus education, find a balance in our pursuits, and embrace the digital era as a tool for progress rather than a source of fear. As we journey through the complexities of evolution, there’s a fascinating paradox at play—we are, in the same breath, returning to ourselves. Amidst the rapid advancements in technology, the reshaping of societal structures, and the constant pursuit of progress, there is a growing recognition of the importance of reconnecting with our roots. While we are looking forward into the future, there is an inherent wisdom in looking back, reconnecting with traditions, and acknowledging the timeless aspects of our humanity. This integration of past and present, of progress and tradition, creates a harmonious balance that fosters a more holistic and meaningful evolution. As we evolve, we are, in essence, coming home to ourselves.