From Remote to Real Connection: Erisa’s ZenVen Experience

Author: Erisa Jakupi Voca

At ZenVen, we love hearing how our members experience the space in their own unique way. Today, we’re sharing a story from Erisa Jakupi Voca, Director of Growth, whose journey perfectly captures the balance between remote freedom and human connection.

“People don’t hate working-they hate being watched.”

Erisa puts it best: it’s not work that drains people, it’s the environment around it. The constant check-ins, the subtle pressure, the feeling of being monitored. That’s where co-working spaces come in, offering all the good parts of an office, without the unnecessary stress.

For Erisa, who has been working remotely for over five years, remote life has been an elite experience: no commute, no forced small talk at 9 AM, and no pretending to be busy. But there was something missing: real, everyday human interaction.

Working with a U.S.-based team meant most communication lived in emails and occasional meetings. And let’s be honest we all know those emails:

“Just following up here?”
“Circling back…”

(And the versions we wish we could send: “Did you read?” “Hello???”)

A Spark from New York and a Shift Back Home

Everything changed during a trip to New York, where Erisa and her colleague worked side-by-side in an office setting. It felt different almost like “corporate cosplay,” but in the best way possible. Gmail, iced coffee, bagels… and actual collaboration.

That experience sparked something.

When they returned home, they realized they didn’t want to lose that energy. They wanted a space that offered structure, connection, and inspiration without sacrificing the freedom of remote work.

That’s how they found ZenVen.

The Little Things That Make a Difference

While there may not be one standout “favorite moment,” Erisa highlights the small, everyday joys that shape the experience:

• The iconic jean couch
• Learning how to use the coffee machine (a surprisingly empowering skill)
• Casual interactions that make the day feel more human

It’s not always about big events sometimes it’s the atmosphere that matters most.

Three Words That Define ZenVen

Professional. Cozy. Comfortable.

A simple description, but one that captures exactly what we aim to create: a space where you can focus, feel at ease, and still be part of something.

A Suggestion We Love: The 20-Minute Coffee Break

One idea that stood out from Erisa’s experience is something we’re seriously inspired by:

A weekly (or even daily) “20-minute coffee break” for all members.

A dedicated moment where everyone pauses, grabs a coffee, and connects-no pressure, just presence. It’s a simple concept, but one that could strengthen the sense of community and create natural connections between members.

And honestly? It sounds like something we’d all look forward to.

–More Than Just a Workspace

Erisa’s story is a reminder that productivity isn’t just about where you work it’s about how you feel while doing it.

ZenVen isn’t just about desks and Wi-Fi. It’s about creating an environment where people can do their best work and feel connected while doing it.

And sometimes, all it takes is the right space… and maybe a really good cup of coffee.