CELEBRATING INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S MONTH
Moving to the U.S. gave me two things I value the most—freedom to travel and freedom of speech. These freedoms opened many opportunities for me. Thanks to this, I can work around the world and be part of global events like the Olympics and World Cups.
The war actually started in 2014, but I never expected it to become so big in 2022. I grew up in Russia after the Soviet Union collapsed. I believed in democracy and thought we were part of the world, free to dream big.
When the war started, I felt deep pain, guilt, fear, and frustration. I couldn’t sleep or focus on anything. The only way to deal with these feelings was to help people who needed it the most. I knew I couldn’t stop the war, but I could make a difference in a few lives. If everyone does the same, the world becomes a better place.
Immigrating is never easy, but fleeing war leaves deep scars. I am happy to see that the families I helped are now safe and building good lives in the U.S.
When I worked at the Olympics in Paris, we hired a local team of brand ambassadors. One of them was a retired teacher. During training, she told us she was not comfortable using technology and she wanted to leave.
Instead of focusing on what she couldn’t do, my colleague and I gave her tasks where she could use her best skills—her kindness, warmth, and hospitality. She became the heart of our team, making everyone feel welcome.
This experience created a real friendship between us. Now, our homes are open to each other anytime. It reminded me that everyone has value. We just need to help people find the right way to use their strengths.
Sometimes, I don’t know if I really balance it all. But I love my work, and I am grateful for my family.
I believe that when you do what you love, it gives you energy instead of taking it away.
Whenever I feel tired or lost, I ask myself: Does this work make me excited? If the answer is yes, then I know I am doing the right thing.
