Smirnov Ruslan – IT & Digital Strategy Consultant
A Speaker Biography
Memorable Design:
+1 (845) 205-0446
Guided Steps NY, INC
Just Guided IT
Over seven years ago, I came from Volgograd, Russia, where I mastered my SEO consulting and website development skills. My professional foundation was built on helping businesses grow their digital footprint through search engine optimization, content strategy, and branding consulting.
With a Master’s degree in Art, I’ve always believed in the power of storytelling, whether through visual design or strategic digital campaigns, to elevate brands and connect with audiences authentically.
I specialized in full-spectrum SEO services in Russia, including technical audits, keyword targeting, and performance analysis. I also offered branding consulting to startups and small businesses, guiding them through logo creation, visual identity, and customer engagement strategies.
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These experiences shaped my holistic approach to building digital platforms optimized for search engines and deeply aligned with a brand’s mission.
About two years ago, when the war between Russia and Ukraine began, I was diagnosed with a traumatic brain injury (TBI). This life-altering event led me to the United States, where I started participating in New York’s TBI Waiver Program.
Despite the challenges, I was determined to overcome this obstacle. This Medicaid-funded initiative empowers individuals with brain injuries to live independently through structured support services.
Through this program, I received services from Advocate Homecare in Fishkill, New York, where I worked with compassionate professionals who supported my transition back into independent living.
Their personalized approach helped me re-learn and strengthen essential independent living skills such as managing daily routines, improving short-term memory, maintaining safe household habits, and developing emotional regulation strategies.
I also became actively involved with the Ability Center, an inclusive support hub that fosters community and personal growth for people with disabilities. The Ability Center played a pivotal role in helping me rediscover my confidence and reignite my passion for technology. Their support was instrumental in my journey.
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Here, I began mentoring others in digital skills and sharing my recovery journey as a form of advocacy and inspiration.
During this process, I was fortunate to meet Jamar and Tyneadrian Bledsoe, founders and CEOs of Guided Steps NY, Inc. Their professionalism, empathy, and insight empowered me to move beyond the challenges of my diagnosis and toward becoming a contributor again—both professionally and personally. Their work is truly transformative.
Today, I proudly work as an Information Technology Consultant at Guided Steps NY, Inc., where I bring my SEO consulting, branding, and web development background into a meaningful service model. I help clients and caregivers build confidence in technology.
That includes teaching fundamental skills like managing online calendars, using accessibility features, and providing advanced services like website creation and digital presence optimization. My work is aimed at [specific impact or goal of your services at Guided Steps NY, Inc.].
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As a speaker for the Brain Injury Association, I focus on the intersections of technology, accessibility, and recovery. My speaking topics include:
As a consultant and speaker, I aim to bridge the gap between lived experience and professional skill to advocate for a future where people with brain injuries are supported and seen as innovators, creators, and leaders.
The role of the TBI Waiver Program in vocational rehabilitation and personal transformation
Independent living skills examples that blend digital and daily life competence
How SEO consulting and branding can offer career pathways to individuals with disabilities
Building websites and tools that are accessible, empowering, and inclusive for TBI survivors
