The power of EMOTIONAL storytelling
My Ukrainian-American roots are central to my identity and worldview.
Perhaps the most important lesson I learned from being a child of immigrants, is to take ownership of your story – early and often. I submit that the first human right ought to be the right to tell your story - on your terms. Sharing your story with lucidity and authenticity can literally change one’s destiny. The current example of Ukrainian President Zelensky – a writer and actor – boldly and courageously taking control of his nation’s narrative has changed world history. As the world stands in awe of this unlikely hero, I cannot help but marvel at the power of emotional storytelling to unite and uplift humanity. My motivation to write my heart out has never been higher.
I grew up in the culturally diverse metropolis of Chicago as a “hyphened American” surrounded by other hyphened Americans. We had a blast sharing stories, music, and food from each other’s lush cultural traditions. In my heart, I became a “global citizen” way before I got my first passport. I craved ethnic diversity and cultural exploration from an early age and ended up studying, working, and living internationally for several years. Culture matters to me deeply. The more you study cultural history, the more evident the universal thread of humanity becomes.
My work is dedicated to understanding human nature through art and culture. Thin labels and flat characters bore me. I want to go deep and wide. Emotionally connecting with stories from people that “don’t look like me” make me feel more human and whole. I believe I am not alone in yearning for stories that touch my heart and expand my mind.