Today we’d like to introduce you to Oksana Taratula
Hi Oksana, it’s an honor to have you on the platform. Thanks for taking the time to share your story with us – to start maybe you can share some of your backstory with our readers?
I am Oksana Taratula, hailing from a small town in western Ukraine, Novoyavorivsk. My childhood was filled with the beauty of picturesque rural fields and vibrant forests where I lived with my grandparents, which fostered my deep love and appreciation for nature. Being an only child, I was lucky to have my parents as steadfast sources of support during my teenage years.
I hold two master’s degrees—one in International Relations and Diplomacy and the other in Civil Law—from Lviv Ivan Franko National University. In 2007, I relocated to the USA as a student and instantly developed a deep appreciation for all aspects of American life. Throughout my journey, I’ve met amazing people who have become both friends and collaborators, motivating me to participate in a range of exciting projects.
In addition to discussing my life philosophy and business later on, I would like to share some of the projects I am privileged to be a part of. I’ve been regarded as a leader, charity worker, and entrepreneur dedicated to making a positive impact in the community and beyond.
I’m the founder and CEO of Live Oil by Lesna https://liveoilbylesna.com, a company dedicated to producing raw organic oils, raw protein powders and natural skin care products which specializes in extracting premium food-grade oils from nuts and seeds. I have introduced a novel and unique method of oil production that, to my knowledge, has no equivalent in the United States. Our approach enables us to create the freshest and most beneficial raw organic oils. We utilize wooden press barrels to eliminate contact with metal and prevent oxidation, which can diminish the oil’s benefits. Our process does not involve heat, chemicals, or additives. In the industrial sector, even oils labeled as “extra virgin” or “first cold-pressed” are typically extracted using metallic presses and are subjected to heat of up to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. This temperature can quickly damage the protein content in the raw materials, as the maximum temperature to maintain protein integrity should not exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit. I take great pride in delivering the purest product to my customers, ensuring it serves as a healing food for them.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Moving to the US alone, without any close connections, was far from an easy journey. It felt like stepping into a vast and unfamiliar landscape, both exciting and daunting. Initially, I was overwhelmed by the sheer magnitude of change—new culture, different customs, and the challenge of navigating everything from daily routines to social interactions. Starting anew from scratch was a mixed bag of emotions. There was a sense of freedom in the blank slate before me, an opportunity to reinvent myself and explore new possibilities. Each day presented its own challenges, but it also offered small victories—making new friends, discovering local gems, and adapting to a new way of life. The journey taught me resilience and self-reliance. I learned to embrace uncertainty and view it as a catalyst for growth. Although it was tough at times, the experience ultimately shaped me, providing valuable lessons about courage, adaptability, and the importance of building connections in a new world. Looking back, I can appreciate the beauty of transformation that comes from stepping out of one’s comfort zone and forging a new path.
Great, so let’s talk business. Can you tell our readers more about what you do and what you think sets you apart from others?
I’m the founder of the Ukrainian Women Association of America (UWAA) https://www.uwaahelp.org, a non-profit organization in the US committed to supporting children in need, including those with disabilities and serious illnesses. Under my leadership, UWAA has launched numerous initiatives aimed at enhancing the lives of vulnerable children, embodying the belief that every child deserves a brighter future.
In addition to my charitable endeavors, I serve as a Director on the Board of the Ukrainian-American Chamber of Commerce (UACCI) https://ukrainianamericanchamber.org, which fosters business opportunities and economic development within the Ukrainian-American community.
My pride is to serve as an Advisor on the Board of Directors for the nonprofit organization https://gecure.org which focuses on gene therapy research lab GeCure, which brings together scientists from around the globe to enhance healthcare through molecular genetics and fundamental research.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
I feel as if the core of my existence revolves around the people I serve and the positive impact I can create in their lives. What matters most to me is the opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others, ensuring that my contributions lead to meaningful change. At the heart of my journey lies a deep-seated belief in the power of human connection. Each individual I encounter has a unique story, struggles, and aspirations. It is essential to me that my contributions not only address immediate needs but also lay the foundation for long-term growth. Living a life dedicated to serving others is not merely about altruism; it is about embracing a purpose that transcends personal ambition. Ultimately, what matters most to me is the legacy of compassion and kindness I leave behind. By focusing on the people I serve and the good deeds I can invest in, I find a profound sense of purpose and fulfillment that makes every effort worthwhile.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://liveoilbylesna.com
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/live_oilbylesna.official/
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/liveoilbylesna
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@LIVEOILBYLESNA
- Other: https://gecure.org
Image Credits
CINEEYE_PRODUCTION
https://www.instagram.com/cineeye_production?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==
CHICAGO_UA
https://www.instagram.com/chicago_ua?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==