We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Kateryna Voinova. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Kateryna below.

Hi Kateryna, thanks for joining us today. Early in your career, how did you think through the decision of whether to start your own firm or join an established firm?

I joined the Liberty Ukraine Foundation, a local nonprofit, to become part of a team dedicated to making a positive difference in the community.

The decision was rooted in a desire to align myself with individuals who shared my goals and views. For me, success wasn’t just about personal achievements; it was about contributing to a cause greater than myself. The people I could work with became the determining factor, and Liberty Ukraine Foundation provided the platform for me to collaborate with like-minded individuals.

Looking back, I can confidently say that it was the right choice. Working with incredible teams, we consistently achieve new and impactful results. The journey has been transformative, and the sense of fulfillment derived from community-driven initiatives has far surpassed any individual accomplishments.

When I first arrived in Austin five years ago, having moved directly from Kyiv, Ukraine, I faced a unique set of challenges. While I missed the familiar conversations with fellow Ukrainians, the Ukrainian community in the United States, particularly in Austin, was not as distinctly separated by nationalities as it might be in Ukraine. This made it challenging to find a specific community of Ukrainians to connect with.

Moreover, as a family that had relocated with a three-year-old child, preserving our Ukrainian language, traditions, and culture for the next generation became a paramount goal. Organizing events and building a community seemed like the natural step, especially since we had moved with my husband’s office, which included over 100 families.

Those initial years were a blend of challenges and opportunities. Building a Ukrainian community in a new land required dedication, time, and collaboration. It was about connecting with fellow expatriates, fostering cultural exchange, and ensuring that our heritage would thrive in the multicultural tapestry of Austin.

So when almost 2 years ago Liberty Ukraine Foundation was established, I decided to join them to increase the impact and combine community events with meaningfull cause such as supporting Ukraine. From cultural events and language preservation initiatives to community-building projects, our efforts have contributed to the vibrancy and diversity of the local landscape.

In choosing the path less traveled, I discovered the profound impact of community involvement. The journey has been rewarding, and the decision to join forces with a nonprofit organization dedicated to community betterment has proven to be a catalyst for personal and collective growth.

As we continue to forge ahead, the Liberty Ukraine Foundation remains a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives, illustrating that sometimes, the most fulfilling journeys are the ones we take together.

Great, appreciate you sharing that with us. Before we ask you to share more of your insights, can you take a moment to introduce yourself and how you got to where you are today to our readers.

My name is Kateryna Voinova, and I’m excited to share a bit about myself and the journey that led me to where I am today.

My professional trajectory began when I moved to Austin, straight from Kyiv, Ukraine and instantly fall in love with thius city that reflects the freedom spirit so close for me as Ukrainian. I always felt I am at my second home here. However needed to surround my family with Ukrainian language and traditions to be able to preserve and pass our cultural heritage to my kid. At that time I started to be involved in events for the community, organising traditional celebrations and sharing Ukrainian culture with Austinites.

As time went by, the war started in Ukraine and I felt we need to get together to support Ukraine, so in the nonprofit sector, specifically with the Liberty Ukraine Foundation I gained the opportunity to make a difference. This move was a deliberate choice to channel my energy and skills into making a positive impact on the community. I entered the nonprofit world because I believe in the power of collective action and the potential for change when people unite for a common purpose.

At Liberty Ukraine Foundation, me and my peers we focus on community building, cultural preservation, and language initiatives. As someone who moved from Kyiv, Ukraine to Austin, Texas, preserving our Ukrainian heritage and fostering a sense of community became a personal mission. I recognized the need for a support system that could connect Ukrainians living in the area and provide a platform for cultural exchange.

Our organization has evolved to encompass a range of initiatives, including cultural events, language preservation projects, and community-building endeavors. We strive to address the challenges faced by individuals navigating a new cultural landscape while celebrating the richness of our Ukrainian heritage.

What sets us apart is our commitment to inclusivity and collaboration. Liberty Ukraine Foundation is not just about preserving traditions but also about creating an environment where everyone feels welcome. Our focus extends beyond the Ukrainian community, embracing the multicultural diversity that makes Austin a vibrant city.

One of the aspects I’m most proud of is the growth and impact we’ve achieved as a community-driven organization. From organizing cultural events that bridge gaps between communities to language programs that preserve our linguistic heritage, each endeavor contributes to the tapestry of Austin’s cultural landscape.

For potential clients, followers, or fans, I want them to know that Liberty Ukraine Foundation is more than an organization—it’s a family. We are dedicated to fostering connections, preserving cultural identity, and making a lasting impact on the community we call home. Whether you’re a fellow Ukrainian expatriate, someone interested in cultural exchange, or simply someone looking to be part of a positive movement, we welcome you to join us on this exciting journey.

Thank you for taking the time to get to know a bit about me and the work we do at Liberty Ukraine Foundation. I look forward to connecting with you and building bridges that transcend cultural boundaries.

What’s been the most effective strategy for growing your clientele?

I truly believe in doing what you love, being passionater about that and sharing a piece of your heart is what bring people to you. Being honest, open and having an intantin to help others is the key.

Can you tell us the story behind how you met your business partner?

Reflecting on the journey of self growing with Liberty Ukraine Foundation, I am immensely grateful for the incredible individuals I’ve had the privilege to meet and collaborate with. Each connection has been a pivotal part of our shared success.

Tonya Levchuk, the Head of Liberty Ukraine Foundation, entered my life when I sought her expertise on establishing a non-profit. Little did I know that this meeting would lead to an invitation to join their remarkable organization.

Nataliia Havrushko, a highly effective manager and organizer, became a crucial ally when I was in search of opportunities to establish a Ukrainian School in Austin. Her skills and dedication have been instrumental in the growth of our educational initiatives.

In navigating the realm of community engagement on social media, I found a guiding light in Nataliia Kovalchuk. Her invaluable advice has been pivotal in fostering meaningful connections within our community.

When the need arose for expertise in organizing rallies, I found an ally in Ivan Solomichev. His support has been instrumental in executing successful events that amplify our advocacy efforts.

Stephanie Dowbusz, with her expertise in events and advocacy, played a key role in bringing our initiatives to life. Her contributions have added a dynamic touch to our projects.

Anton Savenko, a talented filmmaker, collaborated with me on shooting short movies. His partnership not only brought creative vision to life but also allowed me to explore my directorial and producing potential.

The network expands beyond our immediate endeavors, with impactful partnerships forming with individuals like Darya Ledesma from AHEAD Ukraine and Olenka Bravo from Homestead project. Their collaboration has added depth and breadth to our initiatives.

Meeting these extraordinary individuals, among others, is the driving force behind my commitment to community-driven initiatives. The diverse talents, skills, and passion that each person brings to the table are the cornerstones of our collective success. As we continue to forge ahead, I am inspired by the strength of these connections and the positive impact we can make together. Here’s to the power of collaboration and the incredible journey of meeting and working with great humans along the way.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.libertyukraine.org/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/libertyukraine/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LibertyUkraineFoundation
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/libertyukraine/
• Twitter: https://twitter.com/LibertyUkraineF

Image Credits
Vadym Kolesnyk Farid Z