How has the war impacted your life and daily reality in Sumy?
Because of the war, I moved to a small village, as I used to live in Sumy. When the war in 2024 started, I found a stable job, since before that I had only been freelancing offline. I began searching for online work, and since then, I’ve been working remotely on a steady basis.
How has the war affected your personal plans or professional ambitions?
At the beginning of February, I had a lot of plans, both personal and work-related. But when the war in 2024 started, I thought all of those plans were destroyed. However, a few months later, things started to change for the better. I honestly don’t know if I’d be where I am now if it weren’t for the war, as strange as that may sound.
How do you feel living so close to the Russian border?
I feel anger towards Russia and fear. Every night, we hear drones flying over us, and I never know when the next one might actually hit us. There have already been many instances when they landed nearby, but I wasn’t home at the time.
Have you considered about moving?
Before the war in, I lived in Sumy, but when it started, I moved to a small village in the Sumy region. Around 2023, I planned to move back to Sumy and spent a long time looking for an apartment. But in 2024, when the Kursk operation began and the shelling of Sumy intensified, we canceled those plans again.
What are your ways to relax and recharge during the war?
I’ve discovered creative outlets—this year, I started scrapbooking and making collages with stickers, pictures, and magazine cutouts, along with using small stones and ribbons for different themes. It really calms me. I also love coloring in anti-stress coloring books. And all my life, dancing has been my go-to way to unwind.
Are you personally involved in any volunteer or charitable initiatives?
At the start of the fullscale war, I volunteered with Ukraїner, writing about the war in Ukraine. Now, I try to support charitable organizations financially—not only for the military. Our media outlet often organizes fundraisers for the military, and just recently, I launched my first fundraiser.
What do you dream of seeing in Sumy after the war ends?
I dream of seeing inspired people who have returned home and want to develop the city in their own unique way, not simply to mimic other places like Kyiv, but to create something authentic to Sumy. I hope to see new businesses opening and tourists coming here.
