Singer Đana Smajo and her mother embark on 'Asia Express' adventure

Singer Đana Smajo, 23, and her mother Meri, 47, are set to embark on a significant adventure as they join the cast of RTL's reality show 'Asia Express: The Dragon's Route' this September. Smajo, who first gained public attention in the show 'Zvjezdice' and later won the Serbian digital talent show 'IDJ Show', is eager to reveal a more competitive side of herself.

Having pursued her singing career since the age of ten with dedication and hard work, Smajo is prepared to approach the challenges of 'Asia Express' with the same intensity she brings to her performances. She stated, “People think my career happened overnight. But I prepare for every performance as if it were my last. That's why this whole adventure will be like a big stage for me.” Her biggest challenge in Asia, she anticipates, will not be the competition or physical exertion, but rather the unfamiliarity of the situations.

For Smajo, it was crucial to have her mother by her side for this journey. Meri, who works in administration, is her biggest supporter and brings a unique character to their team. Her interests range from fashion and dance to an active presence on TikTok, where she shares aspects of her daily life. Smajo humorously describes her mother's tendency to comment on everything as 'nagging,' a trait she attributes to many millennial mothers.

Meri sees herself as a natural team leader, though she admits to sometimes losing her temper under stress. Her strategy is straightforward: remain determined, stick together, and never underestimate their combined capabilities. More than just a competition, Meri views 'Asia Express' as an opportunity to send a message to women of her generation who might feel that certain experiences are no longer accessible to them. “When people reach a certain age, they start acting as if some things are simply no longer for them. I want to show that the spirit can remain young regardless of age,” she emphasized.

Both Đana and Meri acknowledge that the journey will likely involve arguments, fatigue, and moments where giving up might seem easier. However, they are resolute in their commitment to never quit.

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People think my career happened overnight. But I prepare for every performance as if it were my last. That's why this whole adventure will be like a big stage for me.