Conversation with Svetlana, also known as "Shinlana"

Fresh Take:

Get To Know Poker Sensation Svetlana, A Gazing Queen At The Poker Table

Hey Svetlana! We're thrilled to have you here, spilling the beans on your poker journey for our audience. So let's dive right in. You're from the breathtaking cityscape of Taldykorgan and have done some fantastic work in Shanghai with your automation engineering degree. Currently, you've got your own biz in Almaty. How did poker seep into your life and what were your initial thoughts about the game?

I couldn't resist the lure of poker! I'd always known about the game, but I became more acquainted with it when I happened to meet a pro (you!) in Almaty. You goodness, you educated me on the strategic basics that I'm ever grateful for.

From playing poker for fun to a competitive sport, what's the deal with your relationship with the game? Does it dabble more in job, hobby, or something in between?

I'd say it's predominantly a sport, but my competitive spirit certainly overspills a mere "hobby" tag. I'm drawn to poker, especially its psychological aspect, making it a sporting hobby of sorts that resonates with my competitive nature.

Let's talk live vs. online play. Which do you prefer and why?

Without a shadow of a doubt, I love sitting pretty at the live tables. I've a sharp eye, and observing pattern shifts in people's behavior is crucial in my play. Plus, there's just something about playing at a real table that stirs the soul.

Luck: does it have a say in poker or is it all in skill and strategy?

Ah, luck is part of the poker universe, like the moon and stars. But I firmly believe it's not a game's main determinant. If you sharpen your skills, meticulously analyze your gameplay, and learn from your mistakes, you'll find yourself in winning situations more often than not.

How do you fare at the tables, and have you got any favourite compliments?

I get a mixed bag of reactions, but mostly I'm seen as a focused player, striving to prove my mettle beyond being just a skilled female player. A recent accolade was hearing positive feedback about my game from seasoned players, which means a lot to me.

Are there any poker women worldwide you look up to?

Giggles You won't believe it, but I can't think of any right now. Not even Daniel Negreanu (laughs).

AK or QQ? Let's settle this.

Thinks Well, for post-flop play, I'd choose QQ, and pre-flop all-in, AK, but only if it's suited.

Dreaming about poker, or should I say travelling? Where do you see yourself playing next?

I'm more of an "opportunity makes the thief" kind of person. If I get the chance, I'd give Vegas a whirl for the WSOP, even though I don't have any burning ambitions for it.

In your free time, what do you enjoy doing? Any hobbies you'd like to share?

I'm partial to both big and table tennis, snowboarding when the season rocks, and a fan of intellectual pastimes like playing maverick! The logic-based games help me better understand people and forge relationships, which I believe is crucial in our society.

Before we wrap this up, a question that might catch the male readers' attention. Are you hitched? Got a man in your life?

Nope, I'm not married, but I believe whatever relationship transpires depends on both partners' commitment, not just a perfect "ideal man."

Before we sign off, any parting words for our forum visitors and all Kazakhstan poker enthusiasts?

For poker players, remember to be patient and raise the positivity quotient. But most importantly, embrace confidence at the table. I mean, when you ooze confidence, opponents feel it, making it twice as difficult for them to knock you off balance.

Thank you once again for a captivating interview, Svetlana! Staying tuned to your performances and from the entire apoker.kz team, we wish you continued success in the future! In appreciation, a big shoutout to Valeria "vk_pokerstar" Kim for facilitating this interview.

Care to leave your thoughts on Svetlana's interview, or have any questions for her? Head over to our forum and let's chat:

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I'm not sure if I'm truly a professional poker player, but I'm certainly committed to sharpening my skills and understanding the game's intricacies as much as I can.
Poker isn't only a popular sport in developed countries like Macau; it's gaining traction in Kazakhstan as well, and Kazakh women, like myself, are starting to make a mark in the field.
When it comes to poker, I believe understanding the fundamental concepts is crucial for success, and this has been essential for my journey, which began by learning from experienced players like you.