Q & A with Maryna Shuliakouskaya ’11
Awarded Entrepreneur of the Year as part of PROPEL’s annual Ignition Awards, Marnya is the owner of 12 Aroma Joe’s franchises throughout Maine.
Tell us about your experience at USM, what did you study, and why did you pick that specific program?
I earned my Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and Affairs from the University of Southern Maine and graduated in 2011. I chose this program because I’ve always been fascinated by the world — how countries and cultures work together, how they connect, and how global decisions shape everyday life. My dream was to work in the international arena and travel the world, which naturally led me to this field of study.
My experience at USM was truly amazing. Some of my favorite classes were microeconomics and international business, where I could apply my mathematical background while studying the power of economics on a global scale. Those courses helped me understand how strategy, people, and systems come together — lessons I still use every day in business.
How long have you been an Aroma Joe’s franchise owner and how did your experience at USM inform your decision to go into the business?
I’ve been an Aroma Joe’s franchise owner for over 12 years, starting with one location in Saco, Maine, and growing to 12 locations across the state — from Kittery to Orono.
My education at USM gave me a strong foundation in critical thinking, business mindset, and risk analysis — skills that are essential for any entrepreneur. The international perspective I developed also helped me understand work ethic and responsibility across different cultures and generations, which has been invaluable as I’ve built and led large teams.
Aroma Joe’s is a company with a heavy focus on sustainability and sourcing ethically produced coffee. What is it like to work for a company with those values front and center?
Nothing is more rewarding than representing a company whose mission is centered on positively impacting people — from our baristas and customers to our suppliers, coffee roasters, and farmers. Sustainability and ethical sourcing are not just ideas at Aroma Joe’s; they are part of how we operate every day.
One of the projects closest to my heart is the work we’re starting in Honduras, supporting our coffee farmers and helping improve their quality of life. Fair trade, long-term partnerships, and ethical sourcing matter deeply to me, and being part of a brand that prioritizes these values makes the work incredibly meaningful.
What advice do you have for individuals interested in going into the food and beverage business?
Food and beverage is a fast-paced, demanding industry — it’s truly an everyday job — but it’s also one of the most rewarding. My biggest advice is simple: you have to love people to succeed in this business. A positive mindset, strong systems, and the ability to build and lead great teams are essential.
You also need to know your numbers and understand profitability early. And if you choose to go into franchising, make sure your personal core values align with the brand you’re joining. On the hardest, busiest days, it’s the people around you — and shared values — that will keep you going.
What does your future hold, what comes next?
I’m incredibly excited about the future. I believe deeply in positivity and intentional living, and I’m always thinking about what’s next. Over the next few years, my focus is on growing Aspire ME Group, the company I founded to help small and medium-sized businesses franchise, grow, and build strong leadership teams through coaching and consulting.
Beyond business, my goals include launching a nonprofit, fully rebuilding water supply systems for our coffee farmers in Honduras, and publishing research on the creation and impact of parasocial interaction within an executive leadership space. I also plan to write a book about cultivating a positive mindset and being the CEO of your life. Lastly, I aim to travel locally and internationally with my family and friends, stay healthy, and be intentional in everything I do. I’m a big dreamer with a bucket list of over 100 items.
For me, the future is about integration (not balance), growth, and positive impact — in business, leadership, and life. I’m so excited for every day ahead, as we have only one shot at it!