A Multilingual Artist Connecting Cultures Through Performance
From her earliest days performing in kindergarten to commanding stages alongside some of the UAE’s most influential leaders, Monica Puiu has carved a remarkable path defined by courage, passion, and elegance. A Romanian talent based in Dubai, Monica is far more than a Master of Ceremonies. She is a storyteller, a presenter, a model, and an actress, whose ability to blend authenticity with glamour has made her a sought-after presence across diverse events and platforms.
With two Bachelor’s degrees and a Master’s in Management, her academic achievements reflect the same dedication and discipline she brings to the stage. Yet it is her artistry honed through years of performance, from choirs to catwalks to acting masterclasses in Los Angeles that infuses her work with unique depth. Fluent in five languages, Monica thrives in multicultural settings, using her intuition, charisma, and grace to create unforgettable experiences. In this exclusive conversation, she shares her journey, inspirations, and what it truly means to transform every event into a story worth remembering.
Please introduce yourself to our readers.
I’m a Romanian, Dubai-based Master of Ceremonies, presenter, model, and actress, with a deep passion for connecting with audiences and bringing stories to life. My journey has taken me from fashion runways and film sets to some of the most inspiring stages, where I blend elegance, warmth, and authenticity to create memorable experiences. Fluent in five languages, I thrive in multicultural settings and see every performance as an opportunity to inspire and connect.
Tell us about your education.
I hold two Bachelor’s degrees, one in Environmental Economics and another in Management as well as a Master’s degree in Management. Alongside my academic path, I pursued my artistic passions, training vocally in singing and attending an acting masterclass in Los Angeles with the legendary Jack Waltzer, a student of Lee Strasberg, Stella Adler, and Sanford Meisner. That experience, blending discipline with creativity, gave me tools that I carry onto every stage and set today.
How did your early experiences as a performer shape your confidence and stage presence today?
I’ve loved the stage for as long as I can remember from performing as a toddler in kindergarten ceremonies, to singing in various choirs throughout my 12 years of schooling, and later stepping into modelling during my university years. I never imagined myself in a traditional nine-to-five job tied strictly to my formal education. For me, the excitement of being on stage built up brick by brick, each experience adding to my confidence and presence. Over time, that passion became second nature, a part of who I am.
What was the biggest challenge you faced transitioning from modelling to hosting high-profile events?
I’ve had the privilege of walking for some of Kuwait’s most renowned designers, including Yousef Aljasmi and La Bourjoisie, and those experiences were absolutely unforgettable.
While modelling gave me poise and presence, the transition to speaking on stage as a host felt natural rather than challenging. I didn’t see it as pressure. I saw it as an exciting new way to connect with people, not just through appearance, but through words, energy, and the atmosphere I could create.
How do you prepare yourself mentally to introduce influential leaders and maintain your composure on such important stages?
For me, the most important preparation is knowing exactly what I’m presenting and who I’m addressing. Once I have that clarity, everything else flows naturally and I can adapt to the moment. Introducing influential leaders is, of course, both a great responsibility and an honour, but I approach it with the same dedication I bring to every stage. In my eyes, every event matters, and each audience deserves my full attention, energy, and best performance.
Can you share a memorable moment when you felt the weight and responsibility of being the MC for a prestigious event?
One moment that stands out was when I had the honour of introducing His Excellency Dr Sultan Al Jaber, the UAE’s Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, and a highly respected global figure.
In that instant, I felt the full weight of representing the event with precision and grace, knowing that every word and gesture mattered.
It was a mix of pride, responsibility, and deep respect moments like these remind me why I love what I do.
What does it mean to you to be described as not just an MC but a storyteller and mood-setter?
For me, being a storyteller and mood-setter means going beyond the script and truly feeling the heartbeat of the room. It’s about weaving words, tone, and presence into a flow that draws people in, making them feel connected to the moment. As an MC, I’m not just announcing what’s next. I’m guiding the energy, setting the rhythm, and creating an atmosphere where every guest feels part of something special.
How do you tailor your storytelling style to resonate with diverse audiences in the UAE?
Living and working in the UAE means embracing incredible cultural diversity, and I always adapt my storytelling style to make each audience feel understood and included. One example that stands out is a luxury event where, on the very morning of the show, I was told I would need to present entirely in French instead of English.
Thankfully, being fluent allowed me to switch effortlessly but more than just changing the language, I adjusted my tone, expressions, and cultural references to truly connect with the guests. That flexibility is what keeps each event authentic and memorable.
How do you balance professionalism with warmth and charisma when addressing high-level dignitaries?
I believe professionalism and warmth are not opposites they complement each other. When addressing high-level dignitaries, I make sure my words, tone, and body language reflect respect and formality, but I also bring a natural warmth that makes the interaction feel human and genuine. People, no matter their status, respond to sincerity, and I find that when you combine respect with charisma, you create a connection that elevates the entire event.
Has there been a particular leader or personality who inspired you during your journey as a presenter?
I’ve been fortunate to meet and present alongside many remarkable individuals, each with their own strengths and stories. Rather than being inspired by just one person, I take small lessons from many whether it’s their confidence, humility, vision, or way of connecting with others. Over time, these moments have shaped my own approach as a presenter.
What role does intuition play in your ability to “spark” and light up every event you MC?
Intuition is everything on stage. It’s what allows me to read the room, sense when to lift the energy, when to slow down, and when to give space for a powerful moment to sink in. No two audiences are the same, and intuition helps me adapt in real time, creating a connection that feels natural and alive. I believe that spark people feel isn’t just in the words, it’s in the unspoken understanding between me and the audience.
How do you handle unexpected moments or challenges during live events?
Flexibility is key in live events no matter how well you prepare, there’s always something that can change at the last minute. I adapt quickly, stay calm, and keep the audience engaged while adjustments happen behind the scenes. I actually keep all my cue cards from the events I host, and some of them are full of last-minute notes and scribbles. They’re like little souvenirs of how unpredictably fun live presenting can be.
Can you describe the evolution of your public speaking skills from your earliest performances to today?
I started presenting only two years ago, and thanks to my background in performing, I already had a strong sense of confidence on stage. Still, like in anything you do, every event teaches you something new. With each show, I’ve refined my delivery, timing, and presence and that constant evolution is one of the things I love most about this work.
Which artistic medium do you feel most aligned with: acting, presenting, modelling, or another form?
I truly love them all. Modelling has its undeniable glamour, acting is one of the most intelligent and fascinating crafts a person can pursue, and singing is deeply close to my soul. But right now, my main focus is presenting, it’s where I’m channelling most of my energy. That said, I’m not closing the door on any of them, because each medium fulfils a different part of who I am.
How do you unwind and recharge after hosting major events?
Believe it or not, after hosting an event I’m often buzzing with energy from the excitement of having done a good job. But eventually, we all need to rest. For me, that usually means a long evening walk by the beach, followed by a salt bath, a good book, and a great night’s sleep. It’s the perfect way to recharge both body and mind.
What does ‘beauty’ mean to you, beyond aesthetics?
For me, beauty is so much more than aesthetics, it stems from within and touches everything and everyone around you. It’s the spark that ignites in your soul and shines through your eyes, the love and kindness you carry for yourself and for others, the peace you radiate, and the joy you feel for life. Physical beauty inevitably changes with time if we are fortunate enough to grow old but the beauty of the soul is eternal, and once seen, it can never be unseen.
Do you have a beauty ritual or self-care routine that helps you stay grounded?
I absolutely love massages, but on a daily basis my favourite ritual to stay grounded is meditation.
Working in such an intense and fast-paced industry, even a few minutes of quieting the mind makes a huge difference. It’s a simple practice, but it keeps me centred, relaxed, and ready to give my best.
How do you measure success beyond applause and recognition at events?
Of course, we all love the applause and recognition, but beyond that feeling of self-gratitude, I measure success in the relationships that last. When clients choose to work with me time and time again, it shows that I’ve not only done my job well, but also built trust and a real connection. For me, that continuity is the true sign of success.
What are some of your hobbies?
One of my greatest passions is travelling. I love discovering new cultures, traditions, and ways of life. Every journey inspires me, whether it’s through meeting people, exploring art and history, or simply observing how others live. For me, travel is both a joy and a form of learning that keeps my perspective fresh and open.
Your message for us at CP magazine?
It’s an honour to share my story with CP magazine and your readers. I believe platforms like yours play such an important role in celebrating talent, creativity, and culture in the region. My message is one of gratitude for the chance to do what I love, and for every person who finds inspiration in following their own path with passion and courage.
