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April 2025
KRISTINA URBA: SECRETS OF SUCCESSFUL FEMALE LEADERSHIP
ristina URBA is not just the founder of a successful real estate agency in Ukraine; she is a symbol of femininity, the personification of confidence, intelligence and impeccable taste, which go hand in hand. Her path is a story about how the combination of inner strength and outer charm can not only conquer the market, but also inspire thousands. In this article, we talk about business, style, strength of character – and what really stands behind a beautiful smile and brilliant achievements.
Kristina Urba started by putting up advertisements with a small daughter in her arms, and today she runs an agro-tech company, develops entrepreneurship, practices law, and inspires other women. When we hear the word “businesswoman,” we often imagine a glossy picture: a business suit, heels, and presentations in glass and concrete offices. But real women’s business is often about putting up advertise-
ments with a child in her arms, sleepless nights, betrayals, and internal transformations—and at the same time, unwavering faith in herself.
Kristina Urba began her journey in 2009. She was 21; her daughter was a year and two months old. She rented a small office in the city centre, founded a real estate agency, and instead of walking, she went to work: inspecting apartments, meeting with clients, looking for ways to earn money.
“I was used to relying only on myself. I knew it would be difficult. But I had no right to stop,” she admits.
The first blows are the first victories.
In her first year, Kristina faced betrayal – her best friend, with whom she started the business together, left, took things out of the office and opened her own business. But Kristina did not give up.
“I quickly realised that reputation and trust are more important than quick profits. And that is what brought clients back to me.”
Life without a clear script
In 2019, Kristina was offered a new challenge – a legal position in an agricultural company. She combined this work with entrepreneurship, dealing with land lease agreements, land purchases, and legal issues of shareholders.
And already in 2022, during a full-scale war, she was offered
to become the executive director of a large agricultural holding.
“They didn’t give any instructions; they didn’t acquaint me with the facts. Many men had to be urgently reserved from mobilisation – otherwise there would be no one to sow. I moved with my son to a village near the production base. My daughter went to study abroad. It was scary, difficult – but I got used to act.”
Strength without pathos
Kristina clearly plans her day, solves problems quickly, has a high level of self-discipline – but never pretends to be perfect. She says frankly: not everything always works out; there is not always a balance between herself, children and work. But she consciously works on it.
“I love people, I love communication. In business, in agriculture, and in law – I am always among people, and this brings me pleasure.”
Her present time
Today, Kristina is a mother of two children, head of an agrotechnology company, lawyer, entrepreneur, volunteer, and philanthropist.
But most of all, she emphasises something else:
“First and foremost, I am a woman, a woman who knows what she wants and how to achieve it. I seek harmony between all my roles. And if something doesn’t work out, it’s not a tragedy. That’s life.”
A message to those who are at the start
“Don’t be afraid. There will always be doubts. But you are stronger than you think. Start and the path will open itself. And remember: your realness is your main advantage.”
рістіна УРБА — не просто засновниця успішного агентства нерухомості в Україні, вона — символ жіночності, уособлення впевненості, розуму та бездоганного смаку, які йдуть пліч-о-пліч. Її шлях — це історія про те, як поєднання внутрішньої сили та зовнішньої чарівності може не лише підкорювати ринок, а й надихати тисячі. У цій статті ми говоримо про бізнес, стиль, силу характеру — і про те, що насправді стоїть за гарною усмішкою та блискучими досягненнями.
Крістіна Урба розпочала з розклеювання оголошень, маючи на руках маленьку доньку, — а сьогодні керує агротехнологічною компанією, розвиває підприємництво, займається юридичною практикою та надихає інших жінок.
Коли ми чуємо слово «бізнесвумен», часто уявляємо глянсову картинку: діловий костюм, підбори, презентації в офісах зі скла та бетону. Але справжній жіночий бізнес — це, нерідко, розклеювання оголошень із дитиною на руках, безсонні ночі, зради, внутрішні трансформації — і водночас непохитна віра в себе. Крістіна Урба почала свій шлях у 2009 році. Їй було 21, доньці — рік і два місяці. Вона орендувала маленький офіс у центрі міста, заснувала агентство нерухомості — і замість прогулянок ішла
оглядати квартири, зустрічатися з клієнтами, шукати способи заробітку.
звикла
— Які юридичні та фінансові виклики виникають у міжнародній інвестиційній діяльності? — Якщо говорити про юридичні виклики, то насамперед це відсутність ефективного механізму захисту інвесторів, який би забезпечував дієві правові інструменти. Інвестор має відчувати, що його фінансові інтереси врегульовані, і що існують превентивні засоби захисту. Часто проблеми виникають через відсутність стратегічного бачення, бізнес-моделювання або належної юридичної структури проєкту — усе це призводить до негативних наслідків у майбутньому.
Щодо фінансових викликів, то це валютні ризики (курсові коливання), складність розрахунків через вплив податкового законодавства, інфляція, політична нестабільність та воєнний стан у країні.
— Які інструменти Ви застосовуєте для міжнародного правового аналізу та зниження ризиків?
— Для автоматизації та підвищення точності аналізу використовуються різні системи. У фінансовому аналізі застосовуються Bloomberg, Dun & Bradstreet, QuickBooks для обробки фінансових даних. Юридичні перевірки здійснюються за допомогою LexisNexis, Westlaw, а також українського Єдиного державного реєстру судових рішень. Для моніторингу репутаційного поля використовуються Factiva, Meltwater, Google Alerts. Аналітична обробка даних і візуалізація здійснюються в Excel і Tableau.
— Як Ви вирішуєте колізії між законодавствами, які по-різному регулюють одні й ті самі правовідносини? — У таких випадках застосовуються міжнародні правові акти, зокрема конвенції, відповідно до характеру діяльності, галузі та юрисдикцій, у межах яких реалізується
М
ariIa Vodzianska is a writer and model, author of the historical and romantic fantasy trilogy “Bittersweet”.
— Every woman wants to be a queen. How can a modern woman become one? Give us some tips.
— Every woman has the potential of a queen. In my opinion, a modern queen is someone who knows her worth, respects herself and others, and is not afraid to take responsibility for her own decisions.
Don’t be afraid to take risks and go beyond your comfort zone. Remember:
won’t even be a novel - I’m thinking of a collection of short stories in different genres and styles. It will be an exciting creative experiment for me, a real professional challenge. I hope that readers will appreciate it.
Here’s a little exclusive: I have already chosen the title for this collection - Yin and Yang.
— How do you see yourself in the future professionally?
THE POWER OF STYLE: MEETING ROSE TAILOR, A BRAND THAT CLOTHES MEN AND BRINGS VICTORY CLOSER
those who do not take risks do not win. Here are some tips on how to reveal your inner queen: first, find your strength, take care of yourself, never be afraid to be yourself, surround yourself with positive people, develop your charisma, develop your intuition, and be an example for others. And in conclusion, I would like to add that becoming a queen is not about a title, but about an inner state.
— Are you planning to write another book? What will it be about? Will you tell our readers the background story?
— When my entire Bittersweet trilogy is on sale, I plan to create another book in a completely new format for me. It
— I see myself as a successful and recognisable writer, recognised not only in Ukraine, but also abroad.
In the future, I dream that my Bittersweet trilogy will become not just a book, but a real cultural phenomenon that will win the hearts of readers around the world.
I dream of adapting the trilogy into a three-season TV series. It will be an extraordinary journey, in which I want to be not only an author and screenwriter, but also to embody the image of Elora, the main character, on the screen.
I want not just to play her, but to live her life on screen – to convey every emotion, every thought, and every detail of her character.
О
lha Kovalska, owner of Kovalska_shop, an offline and online retailer, tells us how to keep a business going in a difficult time for the country and how she overcomes the challenges she faces in her business.
— How have you adapted your business given the difficult situation in the country?
— My business started adapting from the first day of the full-scale invasion. I immediately set priorities and decided to work for our victory. We began to actively engage in volunteer activities and organised our work so that part of our profits was constantly directed to meet the needs of our military.
— What strategies do you use to maintain and develop your brand during the economic instability caused by the war?— To be honest, I don’t have any pre-written plans or
— The main challenge is complete instability. Before the war, everything worked like clockwork. Now, everything is more about “luck”: whether we are lucky or there will be another shelling. In such conditions, it is impossible to make specific long-term plans. So I act according to the situation. I have become a person who has learnt to live in the here and now. I couldn’t do it before –the war changed me.
— Because of the war, you are actively involved in volunteering. Tell us more about this stage of your life.
OLHA KOVALSKA:
I BECAME A PERSON WHO LEARNED TO LIVE
TODAY. I WASN’T ABLE TO DO SO BEFORE, BUT THE WAR CHANGED EVERYTHING
strategies. Every morning when I wake up, I am grateful for another day to do something. I clearly realise that in our time, there may not be a ‘tomorrow’. I have accepted this a long time ago. It doesn’t scare me anymore. As long as we are alive, we have to act, help each other, each in his or her own place.
— Do you aim to open up new business opportunities during the wartime?
— Yes, I am currently developing cooperation with my friend Roma – he creates military merchandise, and I help with the sales. He is currently at war in the Donetsk region, so, of course, time is short. But he has a dream and a desire to develop, and we will definitely make it happen.
— What are the main challenges your brand faces because of the war, and how do you overcome them?
— Volunteering is not a stage; it is already a way of life. We all need to be part of a reliable home front. It pains me to see how many people, even colleagues, who have the resources, do not realise the importance of this.
My audience instantly closes the collections, because they trust me and know that it is really important. Yes, everyone is tired, but we have no right to stop – we have already gone a huge, painful way. We cannot pretend that the war does not concern anyone. Those who thought so have already left the country. I want to unite people. I want to see that they are ready to fight – because the home front has to work.
INTERVIEW WITH OLENA HOLOVASH: ON
— Mrs. Olena, you have three higher educations. How did your professional path lead to astrology and psychology?
— Yes, I have a degree in economics, law and psychology. I have a PhD in Economics. For 15 years, I worked as a financial director of a large private company in Kharkiv and also taught economics at the university.
HER PATH FROM ECONOMICS
TO ASTROPSYCHOLOGY, HER LIFE MISSION AND INSPIRATION
Astrology has always attracted me as a deep knowledge about a person and their place in the Universe. At a certain point, I realised that it was not just an interest –it was my true calling.
— Why did you decide to supplement your astrological practice with psychological education?
— I realised that without understanding deep psychological processes, it is impossible to really help a person. That’s why I got another degree – I graduated with honours in psychology.
I am currently a member of the National Psychological Association of Ukraine. My approach combines analytical thinking, intuition and deep empathy. This allows me to work with clients in a comprehensive, meaningful and effective manner.
— How did moving to another country affect you as a professional? What are you doing there now?
— After the war started, I was forced to leave my native Kharkiv and moved to Bulgaria. There I continue my practice as an astropsychologist.
In addition to individual consultations, I am actively involved in volunteering: I have worked with children and families affected by the war. I use art therapy, metaphorical associative cards and other techniques to restore internal resources. This is an important and profound experience in my life.
— Your approach is not just based on knowledge. What else do you put into your work?
— I combine science, intuition and creativity. For me, it is important not just to give an astrological forecast, but to help a person get to know themselves better, find inner support and their own path. My task is to help the client feel strong, free and confident.
— You are also a very creative person. What do you do in your spare time?
— Creativity plays an important role in my life. I paint paintings that are presented on the international art platform Saatchi Art, I am engaged in ballroom dancing – I started at the age of 40! And I am learning to play the piano.
I am convinced that a harmonious person should develop in three areas: mental, spiritual and creative.
— What is the most important thing for you in your mission?
— To help people find their own unique path, to harmoniously combine mind and heart, knowledge and inspiration. To show everyone that the answer is already inside you, you just need to learn to listen to it.
ІНТЕРВ’Ю
ГОЛОВАШ:
ТА НАТХНЕННЯ
— Насамперед це мій досвід — усе те, що я особисто пройшла, випробувала та впровадила на практиці.
– Пані Олено, хочемо поговорити про вашу чергову прем’єру у Київському національному академічному Молодому театрі – виставу «Чи одружиться нарешті Фігаро?».
Як вдалося так сміливо і по-сучасному адаптувати класичну п’єсу Бормаше? – Це питання в першу чергу треба адресувати режисеру-постановнику нашої вистави – французу Григору Мане. Він і є автором оновленої версії. У Молодому театрі ставить виставу вже вдруге. Чесно скажу, мені пощастило, що я потрапила
першою
«Як я залишилася сама», у якій отримала роль Марії. А тепер із задоволенням працюю над роллю Графині у другій постановці цього режисера.
Від класичної п’єси Бомарше лишилася квінтесенція – зайві тексти прибрані, а нові, сучасні, зрозумілі нашому глядачу, дописані Григором Мане. Звичайно, класичний варіант п’єси можна грати, але для сьогоднішніх темпоритмів він занадто затягнутий. Тож наш оновлений варіант мені подобається більше. Події розвиваються швидко, так, як і усе навколо нас, у сучасному світі інтернету. Але мені здається дуже цікаве поєднання сучасного з костюмами XVIII сторіччя. Криноліни, рюші, білі перуки, декорація, що змінюється на очах у глядачів – все це створює ат
жінка, а особливо, якщо во -
приваблива, та ще й актриса, отримує доволі різні пропозиції. Але скажу відверто, ніколи не соромилася казати одразу «ні». Я це говорила безапеляційно, серйозно, чітко, інколи навіть перераховувала причини, чому відмовляю. Це миттєво охолоджувало залицяльників і більше від них пропозицій не надходило, ми переходили без образ до дружніх стосунків. Недавній скандал для мене як грім
lenakhizhnaya
lenakhizhnaya
C— Пані Світлано, капелюхи, картини, книги — основні напрямки
цюєте?
— Зараз весна і в пріоритеті сад, дача. А якщо говорити про творчість,
ним центром Європи. Так і буде. Наша земля
втягує його в чергове розслідування.
Ще малюю костюми для ІІІ тому енциклопедії «Духовність і витоки українського вбрання». Над цією енциклопедією працювала як дослідниця багато років. 20 років тому я вказала, що Україна стане духов-
гість сусідів по дачі попросив що-небудь почитати перед сном. Вранці він мав поїхати. Запропонувала йому дві свої книжки «Птах Сенмурв». Наступного дня він запитав,
З дитинства я багато подорожувала – Якутія-Саха, Камчатка. Це розширило мої горизонти і допомогло стати сильною особистістю.
Мій батько, закоханий в Україну, її
Моя журналістська діяльність теж стала важливим
етапом у становленні мене як особистості. Я очолювала дві газети: одна була корпоративною, інша – моїм «дитям». Саме в ній я відчувала справжню свободу. Це відчуття власної гідності я ціную й досі. – Що було найскладнішим
змінює
lena VERHUN is the owner of the Body Line ideal body workshops, a master of body wraps and apparatus massage.
— Is manual massage more effective than apparatus massage?
— Apparatus massage has a number of advantages over manual massage - it is able to reach levels of depth that are unattainable with hands. However, manual massage is more adaptive and is considered to be stronger in sensation.
— Can vacuum massage be done only on problem areas?
— Vacuum massage is not just for “problem areas”! This technique is also suitable for:
• back and neck - relieves tension and fatigue,
• arms - provides tightening and drainage,
• face - has a lifting effect and adds freshness,
• legs - relieves swelling and a feeling of heaviness.
— How often should a person get a massage?
To get rid of your belly, you need a comprehensive approach: a balanced diet, physical activity, and proper massage (vacuum, lymphatic drainage, anti-cellulite). The main thing is regularity and patience.
— How long does a massage session last?
— It depends on the area and your goal. 30–45 minutes is enough for a comprehensive procedure, a good option for a course. 60–90 minutes is for deep work: lymphatic drainage, relaxation, and detoxification.
OLENA VERHUN:
“MASSAGE IS A WONDERFUL TOOL, BUT NOT A MAGIC WAND IN ONE SESSION”
— It all depends on your goal. If you want results, I recommend taking a course: 2–3 times a week, 6–10 procedures. And to maintain the achieved effect, one session per week or once every 10–14 days is enough.
— What are the contraindications to massage?
— Before any procedure, consultation with a master is mandatory. However, there are general contraindications:
• elevated body temperature (over 38 °C),
• acute inflammatory processes,
• varicose veins in the acute stage, thrombosis,
• skin damage (wounds, burns, abscesses).
— Is it possible to get rid of a belly with massage?
— Massage is a great tool, but it’s not a magic wand.
— How many sessions are needed to see results?
— Everything is individual. For some, the result is noticeable after the third session, while others see changes after 6–7 procedures. IMPORTANT: during the course, I recommend following a balanced diet, avoiding alcohol, and drinking enough clean water.
— Please tell us more about nail therapy.
— It’s about going beyond the usual, about meeting yourself on a deeper level. And, of course, about the powerful feeling: “I can do more than I thought.” This is a deep physical, emotional and mental practice that gives new internal resources.
— Phytobath – what kind of service is this? Tell us more.
— At Body Line, phytobathing is not just steam, but a real harmonious ritual of cleansing and renewal. This is a special capsule with soft herbal steam, where the body relaxes and the organism is cleansed. The head remains outside - it’s easy to breathe, and the effect is like after a sauna! For 30 minutes, steam from chamomile, sage, linden, mint and other healing herbs opens the pores, activates lymph flow, and prepares the body for massage.
лена ВЕРГУН — власниця майстерень ідеального тіла Body Line, майстриня обгортань та апаратного масажу.
— Ручний масаж ефективніший за апаратний?
— Апаратний масаж має низку переваг перед ручним — він здатен досягати рівнів глибини, недосяжних для рук. Утім, ручний масаж більш адаптивний і вважається сильнішим за відчуттями.
— Чи можна вакуумний масаж робити лише на проблемних ділянках?
— Вакуумний масаж — не лише для «проблемних
методика підходить і для:
• спини та шиї — знімає напругу та втому,
• рук — забезпечує підтягнення та дренаж,
• обличчя — має ліфтинговий ефект і додає свіжості,
• ніг — полегшує набряки й відчуття важкості. — Як часто варто робити масаж?
— Усе залежить від вашої мети. Якщо прагнете результату
— рекомендую проходити курс: 2–3 рази на тиждень, 6–10 процедур. А щоб підтримати досягнутий ефект — достатньо одного сеансу на тиждень або раз на 10–14 днів.
— Які існують протипоказання до масажу?
— Перед будь-якою процедурою обов’язкова консультація з майстром. Однак є загальні протипоказання:
• підвищена температура тіла (понад 38 °C),
• гострі запальні процеси,
• варикоз у стадії загострення, тромбоз,
• пошкодження шкіри (рани, опіки, гнійники).
— Чи можна позбутися живота за допомогою масажу?
— Масаж — чудовий інструмент, але не чарівна паличка. Щоб прибрати живіт, потрібен комплексний підхід: збалансоване харчування, фізична активність і правильний масаж (вакуумний, лімфодренажний, антицелюлітний). Головне — регулярність і терпіння.
— Скільки триває масажний сеанс? — Це залежить від зони і вашої мети. 30–45 хвилин — достатньо для комплексної
KATERYNA SIROSHTAN:
«COLLAGEN STIMULATION PROCEDURES ARE ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES IN COSMETOLOGY»
Kateryna SIROSHTAN, a cosmetologist, tells you how to properly care for your skin so that it remains young, elastic, and healthy for a long time.
— What experience do you have in cosmetology?
— I have been working in the field of cosmetology for 6 years since 2019 as a cosmetologist. Before that, I worked as a family doctor in a polyclinic for five years.
— What procedures do you perform most often — and why exactly them?
— The most popular procedures in my office are biorevitalisation and bioreparation using hyaluronic acid and polynucleotide-based products (to moisturize and lift sagging skin, improving its quality), as well as lip contouring and botulinum therapy (Botox against mimic wrinkles).
— What home care advice would you give to your patients?
— The most important advice: before buying products, be sure to consult a cosmetologist. A professional will select a dermatologically based care that will include all the necessary stages –cleansing, moisturising, protection, etc.
— What technologies or approaches do you consider the most promising in modern cosmetology?
Undoubtedly, among the most advanced today are collagen stimulation procedures, i.e. stimulation of the production of one’s own
on exosomes, calcium hydroxyapatite, polylactic acid and polynucleotides.
These means and technologies provide natural, safe rejuvenation without violating the anatomical integrity of tissues.
— You are an internally displaced person who rebuilt your business in Kyiv from scratch during the war. What are your strongest memories from that period?
— What I remember most vividly is the thirst for action. I wanted to work, develop my favourite business, return to my profession, start anew, and find new clients in a big, competitive city.
I am a workaholic and by horoscope I am an Aries, so the thirst for victory has always been my driving force. Sociability, constant training, promotion of services, self-belief — all this gave results: today I have my own office and two beauty salons.
— What advice would you give our readers to stay on the path to their dreams?
You should not rely on the advice of friends, bloggers or random reviews on the Internet – each person’s skin is individual.
collagen for a lifting effect and tissue renewal.
Such techniques include: the hardware procedure of microneedle RF-lifting and injections of preparations based
— My advice: believe in yourself, work on overcoming your fears and don’t give up. It sounds trite, but this is the basis of any success.
Remember: no one owes you anything – just like you. Only you yourself are able to lend a helping hand and give a push towards your goal.
КАТЕРИНА
СІРОШТАН:
«ПЕРЕДОВИМИ
ТЕХНОЛОГІЯМИ
В КОСМЕТОЛОГІЇ
КОЛАГЕНОСТИМУЛЯЦІЇ»
— Який у Вас досвід роботи в
косметології?
— У сфері косметології я працюю
вже 6 років. З 2019 року — як
лікар-косметолог. До цього протягом п’яти років працювала сімейною лікаркою в поліклініці.
— Які процедури виконуєте на-
йчастіше — і чому саме їх?
— Найпопулярніші процедури у
моєму кабінеті — це біоревіталізація та біорепарація засобами на основі гіалуронової кислоти й поліну-
клеотидів (для зволоження та
ліфтингу в’ялої шкіри,
PREMIUM CARE, DEEP HYDRATION,
COMPLETE TEN-
DERNESS:
ALÍS IS YOUR SPECIAL COMPANION IN YOUR DAILY SELFCARE RITUAL
We believe in the power of fragrances and the value of the present moment. Let textures tell their own story on your skin. Feel the lightness of every touch with our debut line of products infused with cherry and patchouli. A soothing gel, a moisturiser, a firming scrub and nourishing oil, each Alís
product delivers deep hydration and envelops the body in a long-lasting, sophisticated scent.
The debut collection Lost Cherry & Patchouli is a harmony of effective ingredients and sensual texture.
Lost Cherry & Patchouli conveys the depth of ripe cherries and the refined tartness of patchouli. This is a formula that melts on the skin; a scent that stays in your memory.
The Lost Cherry & Patchouli cream butter is your daily delight: warm, lively, sensual.
Alís is a moment of calm, always there. Allow your skin to regain its softness and inner balance. With notes of juicy cherries and soft patchouli, Alís offers more than just skincare – it’s a gentle ritual in the midst of the city’s rhythm, your companion when travelling, at meetings or during a coffee break.
Self-care is not a luxury, but a manifestation of a conscious, active, confident self. It is a balance between efficiency and sensuality of the moment.
Alís is a combination of effective ingredients and craftsmanship honed to perfection. We combine ingredients that moisturise, protect and restore, giving the skin tenderness and comfort.
When creating the fragrance, we immersed ourselves in the world of sweet cherry, complemented by the emotional depth of patchouli. This duo accompanies your fondest memories.
Alís is the embodiment of elegance that is accessible to everyone. Our functional formulas give you care, confidence, comfort and tactile pleasure every day.
стійким, витонченим ароматом.
Дебютна колекція
Lost Cherry & Patchouli — це гармонія ефективних інгредієнтів і чуттєвої текстури.
Lost Cherry & Patchouli передає
глибину стиглої вишні та вишукану терпкість пачулі. Формули, що тануть на шкірі. Аромат, який залишається у пам’яті.
Крем-масло з колекції Lost Cherry & Patchouli — це ваша щоденна
насолода: тепла, жива, чуттєва.
Alís — хвилина спокою, завжди поруч. Дозвольте вашій шкірі
– прокоментувала Людмила
Акименко.
Формат проєкту містить у собі театральні постановки
та змінювати її. Через призму
творчості ми можемо надати
шляху до змін. Це і про оздоровлення
стосунків, про налагодження комунікації, досягнення порозуміння з оточуючими, розкриття внутрішнього потенціалу.
Окрім того, психологічний театр «Ситуація» має за мету розвивати
психологічний напрямок театрального
мистецтва. Це абсолютно нова
концепція, що може бути
йому ситуації без прямого контакту з фахівцем, проте отримати
PREMIERE OF THE YEAR –PSYCHOLOGICAL THEATRE «SITUATION»
A full hall of people: Dnipro residents, guests of the city, experts, journalists, art connoisseurs... There was absolute silence and bated breath from anticipation at the start of the premiere of the incredibly unique, absolutely innovative cultural project «Psychological Theatre «Situation».
The author of the project Lyudmila Akymenko notes that she has been nurturing the idea for a very long time so that, once formed, it would incorporate extremely useful practical advice and the effectiveness of psychological assistance to people through the format of a theatrical performance.
«As a woman who has gone through a long way of her own transformations, I understand that young people who plan to create strong unions do not know how to prepare themselves for this at all. Most of them do not allow themselves to turn to experts for help. Divorce statistics tell us that we do not currently have a culture of building healthy relationships due to a lack of self-understanding and inability to communicate. For a very long time, these questions formed in me the idea of creating a project that through an interactive format would be able to help our nation, help women and men find a common language, create an atmosphere of trust, harmony, understanding and support in families. Thus, years later, the Psychological Theatre «Situation» was born, which we presented to the birthday of our city,» commented Lyudmila Akymenko.
The format of the project includes theatrical productions of a wide variety of situations faced by every person on the planet. Psychological theatre is a special form of influence on a person through creation, because theatrical art is able to perfectly manifest the inner world of
Natalia Tkachuk is a psychologist. She has over 4 years of practical experience in cognitive behavioural therapy.
– How long have you been working as a practical psychologist and what is your main specialisation?
– Psychology is my second profession. Until I was 38, I worked for 15 years as a master of industrial training and a teacher of professional disciplines at a vocational school, specialising in pastry chef. After giving birth to my third child, I decided to fulfil my teenage dream of becoming a psychologist and being even more useful to people.
I entered two institutions at the same time: IAPM for a master’s degree in psychology (2 years of study), as well as an online institute of practical psychology (1.5 years of practice – internship). Since my youth, I have been attracted to the topic of spirituality – and here I am, with experience of individual consultations and trainings that I conducted in two international organisations.
– What methods and approaches do you use when working with clients?
– In 2021, I opened my office in Izmail and started practicing cognitive behavioural therapy (CBT). But on 24 February 2022, everything changed - and I decided to become a volunteer psychologist.
Over the next year, I deepened my knowledge of working with crises, trauma, loss and adaptation at Medical Teams International.
In 2024, I joined another NGO, where I worked in a mobile team providing psychological support to victims of gender-based violence.
And since January 2025, I have been part of a team of working psychotherapists on a Ukrainian online platform.
– How do you cope with stressful situations at work?
– My previous teaching experience helps a lot. In addition, I constantly use psychological self-defence practices that allow me to stay in a resourceful state. I worked on my stress resistance while working with offenders in a mobile team - I have the appropriate certification. It is the ability to be composed when the situation requires maximum concentration.
NATALIA TKACHUK:
“PAY ATTENTION TO YOUR MENTAL HEALTH AND BE SURE TO SEEK PROFESSIONAL HELP”
– How do you help clients resolve their queries?
– Each case is individual, and that is why I use a client-centred approach. However, I would like to emphasise that cognitive behavioural therapy is a method that quickly helps to change the focus of attention and bring a person closer to their dreams and goals. By changing thoughts and behaviour, a person changes the quality of their life.
I use a whole arsenal of techniques and exercises - from selfobservation diaries to methods of stabilising the emotional state.
– What advice would you give to those seeking psychological help?
– Pay attention to your mental health. It is as important as your physical health. Don’t be afraid to seek professional help.
A person needs someone to be a mirror and support for the period of internal change. And it’s okay to ask for help.
травмами,
організації Medical Teams International.
nna KHYZHNIAK, PhD in Psychology, Associate Professor at the Department of Psychology, and practicing psychotherapist, has been combining scientific depth with practical experience for over 20 years. In her author’s course “A Child – this is Simple”, the expert explains to parents how to find a balance and get along with their children.
“A CHILD – THIS IS SIMPLE”:
ANNA KHYZHNIAK
HELPS PARENTS UNDERSTAND THEIR CHILDREN
– Mrs. Anna, what brought you into psychology?
– I have been in psychology for over 20 years. In my student years, I was an athlete, dreaming of the Olympics, but an injury crossed out my career. This caused an identity crisis – “who am I without sports?” I accidentally came across the Department of Sports Psychology – and stayed forever. Psychology helped me overcome the crisis and became a real calling.
Later, I received a second degree from the Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, defended my PhD thesis, received training in Gestalt therapy, psychodrama, child psychotherapy, and worked at the Kostiuk Institute of Psychology. Psychology has become a way of life for me.
– What inspired you to create the course “A Child – this is Simple”?
– I have been working with parents and children for over ten years now – and every time I am convinced: in most cases the problem is not the child, but the lack of knowledge in adults. Often, children’s consultation turns into educational counselling for parents. That’s how the idea of the course was born – to give parents access to basic knowledge without the need for individual sessions. It saves time, helps to avoid mistakes in upbringing and is based on practical advice and effective tools.
– Your course is a kind of guide for parents and educators. How does it differ from traditional books and seminars on upbringing?
– The main advantages of my course are its brevity and practical nature. First, there is no “water”, introductory reflections or unnecessary theory in the lectures; only concentrated advice, proven rules and practical life hacks that I have collected over ten years of work.
Secondly, the course is “about life”, without embellishment and romanticizing. It is built on many years of observations, therefore it is filled with specific situations and living examples.
– Do you have a favourite life hack or upbringing principle that every adult should know?
– Yes! The most important thing is to act from a position of inner peace. Only in this state is a child able to absorb new information. Emotional pressure, punishment, or authoritarianism causes resistance. So if you want to convey something to a child, first calm down yourself. Otherwise, their psyche will close, defense mechanisms will be activated, and instead of cooperation, you will get a “hedgehog” that does not want to listen, resists, and is on the defensive.
– What motivates you most about the profession of a psychologist?
– What inspires me the most is seeing positive changes in my clients’ lives. Their successes, messages of gratitude, and relief after sessions are the best reward and the main incentive to continue my work.
A ANNA KOVALCHUK: HOW TO IMPROVE THE QUALITY OF LIFE BY TURNING IT INTO YOUR OWN WORK OF ART
nna Kovalchuk, a mentor in the art of living and a companion on the path to change, will tell you how to improve your life with words of support and peace of mind.
When we talk about quality of life today, we mean not only physical health or material well-being. The modern understanding of this concept encompasses the physical (body), psycho-emotional (psychology) and spiritual (biography) state of a person and directly depends on how we live. A balance between all these components is important for the harmonious development of a personality. It is impossible to be happy without being healthy. It is impossible to stay healthy without having peace of mind. And peace of mind does not come when we are dissatisfied with our lives.
To achieve this inner balance, it is important to consciously participate in all life processes, because finding a good therapist or psychologist is no longer enough. It would seem that everything is simple...
But as soon as we find ourselves face-to-face with adversity, crisis, emotional exhaustion or stress, we immediately lose our bearings; forget who we are and where to go next.
In moments of losing our inner balance, we need support the most. I suggest that people just talk to me. A sincere conversation in an atmosphere of trust and without noise gives you the opportunity to express yourself. The word reveals what is hidden in the depths of the personality. The
opportunity to speak and be heard helps to reduce anxiety and tension, better understand one’s emotions, realise needs, restore the joy of being and significantly improve the quality of life.
But the true art of living begins with an attentive attitude to one’s own biography as a way of knowing oneself and the world. If you look at a person’s life path through the prism of anthroposophy (Rudolf Steiner), it ceases to be a simple chronology of events and turns into a living process of spiritual, emotional and physical development. It is a path of individual development in which one can notice certain regularities and rhythms, find lost meaning, rethink trials, and open up to the future. The concept of “development” plays a key role in working with personal history.
I was inspired to apply the main elements of this approach in my practice while studying the course Human Evolution in Homeopathy, Anthroposophy and Biographical Laws at the Nataliia Kostinskaya Academy in 2020. After all, I am deeply convinced that every person, not only as an individual but also as part of humanity, is called to contribute to the development of the modern era through personal growth. By knowing ourselves, we not only shape our own destiny, we change the world for the better.
@anna_liubov t.me/anialiubov
— Світлано, розкажіть, будь ласка, про свій професійний досвід?
— Завжди була емпатійною, чутливою, особливо до тих, кого ображали, захищала їх, підтримувала. Пам’ятаю, як у сім років
бинтом перемотувала зламану гілку. Вперше слово «психологія»
я почула від викладача фізики в старших класах сільської школи. Моя перша книга — «Конфлікти та шляхи їх вирішення», яку подарували на конкурсі «Що? Де? Коли?» (виграла наша команда), змінила погляд на міжособистісні стосунки. А далі — вступ до закладу
університету чотири роки працювала в центрі соціальних служб
Iryna BLAZHYNA is a practical psychologist, teacher-philologist; winner of numerous competitions, diplomat and prize-winner of pedagogical competitions of the All-Ukrainian scale; author of a unique methodology of psychocorrection of personality, as well as the programme “Raising Children without Punishment”; a fourth-generation teacher.
NLP IN THE CONTEXT OF
RUSSIAN PROPAGANDA
IRYNA BLAZHYNA
The use of neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) as a means of manipulation is quite common in modern propaganda. Techniques based on the principles of NLP are used to transform the perception of reality and manage people’s reactions. Their essence lies in influencing emotions and perceptions, which allows distorted information to be presented as reliable.
Specific examples of NLP manipulations in Russian propaganda, which are actively used through the media, public speeches, and social media. Below are the key manipulative strategies and examples of their application:
1. Generality quantifiers
Example: Phrases such as “All Ukrainians are Nazis” or “All Western countries support Ukraine”. Such statements simplify a complex reality by reducing it to a single negative image and exclude alternative points of view, creating the illusion of unanimity.
2. Metaframe
Example: Describing the conflict in Ukraine as a “civil war”.
This shifts responsibility from an external aggressor to internal factors, thereby legitimising violence and shifting the focus from causes to consequences.
3. Redefinition
Example: The use of the term ‘denazification’ in relation to Ukraine.
This language presents aggression as supposedly justified and “historically necessary”, drawing on Soviet narratives and deep-seated fears. This contributes to the perception that aggression is a “necessary reality” for russia’s security.
4. Distortion of facts
Example: Accusing Ukraine of ‘killing its own citizens’. This is a classic example of news distortion aimed at shifting the blame to the Ukrainian government and diverting attention from the actions of the russian federation.
5. Emotional appeal
Example: The use of images of “peace”, “protection”, “family” in the military context.
Such vocabulary evokes strong emotions (fear, compassion) and reduces the level of critical analysis, in particular, by explaining war as an act of “defence”.
6. Denial of reality
Example: Spreading claims that the problem does not exist, such as “there is no war in Ukraine.”
This creates cognitive disorientation: people begin to doubt the objectivity of information sources and accept only the “official” version.
7. Attribution of responsibility
Example: Blaming the West for all problems related to the Russian economy or social policy through the words “negative impact of sanctions.”
This allows one to avoid responsibility for one’s own political and economic failures by shifting it to an “external enemy.”
8. Dichotomous “black and white” thinking (black rhetoric)
Example: Depicting the conflict as a struggle between “good” (russia) and “evil” (the West or Ukraine).
This presentation simplifies complex international events, eliminates nuances, and encourages binary choices without analysing alternatives.
Conclusion
Russian propaganda actively uses neurolinguistic programming methods to manipulate the consciousness of the population and form a certain narrative about conflicts and foreign policy. The use of generality quantifiers, metaframes, redefinitions and emotional appeals makes information more convincing and easier to perceive. The formation of critical thinking, media literacy and emotional awareness are key factors in maintaining the psychological independence of citizens in the face of information warfare.
Використання нейролінгвістичного
програмування (НЛП) як засобу маніпуляції — доволі поширене явище в сучасній пропаганді. Техніки, засновані на принципах НЛП, застосовуються з метою трансформації сприйняття реальності та управління реакціями людей. Їх суть полягає у впливі на емоції й уявлення, що дозволяє подати викривлену інформацію як достовірну.
Конкретні приклади маніпуляцій НЛП у російській пропаганді, які активно використовується через засоби масової інформації, публічні виступи, соціальні мережі. Нижче наведено ключові маніпулятивні стратегії та приклади їх застосування: 1. Квантори загальності
Такі твердження спрощують складну реальність, зводячи її до єдиного негативного образу, й виключають альтернативні точки зору, створюючи ілюзію одностайності.
2. Метафрейм Приклад: Опис конфлікту в Україні як «громадянської війни». Це перекладає відповідальність із зовнішнього агресора на внутрішні чинники, тим самим легітимізуючи насильство та зміщуючи фокус із причин на наслідки.
3. Перевизначення Приклад: Вживання терміна «денацифікація» щодо України. Таке формулювання подає агресію як нібито обґрунтовану та «історично необхідну», спираючись на радянські наративи та глибоко
уникнути
за власні політичні та економічні провали, перекладаючи її на «зовнішнього ворога».
8. Дихотомічне «чорно-біле» мислення (чорна риторика)
Приклад: Зображення конфлікту як боротьби між «добром» (росія) і «злом» (Захід чи Україна).
Така подача спрощує складні міжнародні події, виключає нюанси та спонукає до бінарного
Svitlana Luzina is a Master of Practical Psychology, Neuropsychologist a Gestalt therapist, and a full member of the Ukrainian Psychological Association.
SVITLANA LUZINA: “WE ARE LOSING OUR BODY”
— What happens to a person in stressful situations?
— “We are losing our bodies” — our innate survival mechanisms are now working against us. The first and most important task of any creature is to survive. The amygdala helps in this. — a brain structure that is always on guard. It is the body’s “emergency alert system.” As soon as a stressor is detected, the sympathetic nervous system is activated, and stress hormones — adrenaline and cortisol — are released.
— How does our body react when it is under stress?
— You feel a rapid heartbeat, increased blood pressure, shallow breathing, and muscle tension. A number of physiological changes take place that prepare the body for the fight-or-flight response. This is a classic scenario: either you confront the threat – actively solve the problem – or you avoid it – try to escape. All systems work at full capacity to ensure survival.
When the threat passes and a state of calm sets in, the parasympathetic nervous system is activated – the body relaxes and recovers. However, the current reality does not allow us to switch on the “safety mode” – we live in a state of prolonged stress, reboot does not occur. The war is on, the amygdala is constantly activated, and the biological system persistently “pumps” the body with stress hormones in response to both real and imagined threats.
— What consequences should a person expect after prolonged stress?
— This can lead to numerous physical symptoms: sleep disturbances, headaches, muscle and stomach pain, and hypersensitivity to sounds and touch. The body constantly feels tense – the so-called muscle carapace is formed. The sympathetic nervous system is in a state of chronic activation, recovery does not occur, the neuroception of danger remains activated, the nervous system changes, and the world is perceived distortedly.
In such conditions, dissociation is triggered, a defensive mental mechanism in which a person loses contact with the body, sensations, emotions, and their own needs. That is why it is so important to learn how to return to a ventral state, to restore the ability to relax and a sense of security.
— What advice can you give to people whose lives are constantly under stress?
— First of all, you should work with your body consciously. We often find calmness through physical activity – cycling, walking, running, or working out in the gym. If you lose contact with your body, massage is a good way to help – rhythmic movements and body touch help you relax. Yoga also helps to reconnect with the body and can be especially useful for those who have symptoms of PTSD. Relieving physical tension allows you to get out of the “fight or flight” state, and changes the nervous system’s response to threats.
Equally important is the activation of social connections and support: contact with other people stimulates the production of oxytocin and, of course, psychotherapy. Real healing happens in contact with others. So I invite you to take care of yourself.
Cвідбувається з людиною у стресових ситуаціях? — «Ми втрачаємо своє тіло» — наші вроджені механізми виживання зараз діють проти нас. Найперше і головне завдання будь-якої істоти — вижити. У цьому допомагає амігдала — структура мозку, що завжди на сторожі. Вона є «системою екстреного оповіщення» нашого організму. При виявленні стресора активується симпатична нервова система, і вивільняються гормони стресу — адреналін та кортизол. — Як реагує наше тіло, коли
стрес?
-
Ви відчуваєте пришвидшене серцебиття, підвищення артеріального тиску, поверхневе дихання, м’язову напругу. Відбувається низка фізіологічних змін, що готують тіло до
працюють на повну, щоб забезпечити виживання. Коли загроза минає і настає стан спокою, активується парасимпатична нервова система — організм розслабляється і відновлюється. Але сучасна реальність не дає нам змоги увімкнути «режим безпеки» — ми живемо у стані тривалого стресу, перезавантаження не відбувається. Війна продовжується, мигдалина постійно активована, а біологічна система завзято «накачує» організм гормонами стресу, реагуючи як на реальні, так і на уявні загрози. — Яких наслідків варто очікувати людині після тривалого стресу?
— Це може призвести до численних фізичних симптомів:
luzinasvitlana_psy
OLHA SYDORUK: “TAROT
DOESN’T DECIDE FOR US HOW TO ACT –IT OPENS WAYS”
lha SYDORUK is a guide to the world of magic, esotericism and Tarot, teaches the art from the ground up to the level of a master, and is the author of the “Oracle of Life” deck and ritual practices.
— How did your journey into studying magic and esotericism begin?
— My journey into the world of magic and esotericism began not with a search for knowledge, but with a desire to know myself. My grandmother helped me a lot in this. The world is always whispering truths to us – in the wind, in the eyes of a stranger, in an anxious premonition or inspiration. I learnt to listen to this whisper even when I had no explanation for it. Knowledge came as a natural continuation of the inner path.
“The world does not always give us what we want. But it always gives us what we need for our growth.”
— How does the Tarot help you solve mysteries and get answers to difficult questions?
— Tarot is not just a card. It is a mirror of our consciousness. Each symbol in the spread is a silent word of the soul, waiting for us to hear it. Tarot does not decide for us how to act – it only opens up possible paths.
“Every question we ask the cards already has an answer in our soul. Tarot helps us to hear its voice.”
Through Tarot, I learn not to look for the “right” solutions, but to see the regularitiess that lead to them. It is a tool for revealing inner truth.
— Has there been a case when you felt that you could not help a person to solve their problem? What did you do in such a situation?
— Yes, such moments have happened. I am convinced that a person is not always ready to hear the answer they are looking for. And the Universe is not always ready to reveal the necessary knowledge at a given moment of time.
When I feel this way, I honestly and delicately explain to the client that it is better to change the focus of the request: help them formulate the question differently, more deeply, or give them time to mature the answer.
— How often do you use your knowledge of magic and esotericism to help others?
— For me, magic and esotericism are not just rituals or individual practices. It is a way of being in the world. That’s why I apply my knowledge every day – even when I’m just listening to a person, feeling their pain or joy.
— What emotions do you usually experience after helping a person find the answer to an important question?
— It is a feeling of quiet gratitude to the world. Not as an achievement or pride, but as a contemplation of a flower that has blossomed before your eyes. When a person finds their way or discovers their truth, this is the moment when the universe becomes a little more complete.
“Wisdom is not in knowledge. Wisdom is in the silence between them.”
And if my knowledge can become a beacon for someone in a dark night of doubt, this is the greatest reward for which it is worth going my own way.
schoolofmagic.info
та езотерики? — Мій шлях у світ магії та езотерики розпочався не з пошуку знань, а з прагнення пізнати себе. В цьому мені дуже допомогла моя бабуся.
Світ завжди шепоче нам істини — у вітрі, у погляді незнайомця, у тривожному передчутті або
натхненні. Я навчилася слухати цей шепіт ще тоді, коли не мала для нього жодного пояснення.
Знання прийшли як природне продовження внутрішнього шляху.
«Світ не завжди дає те, чого ми
хочемо. Але завжди дає те, що
потрібно для нашого зростання.»
— Як Таро допомагає Вам роз-
кривати таємниці й отримувати
відповіді на складні питання?
— Таро — це не просто карти.
Це дзеркало нашої свідомості.
Кожен символ у розкладі —
мовчазне слово душі, яке чекає, коли ми його почуємо. Таро не
вирішує за нас, як діяти, — воно лише відкриває можливі шляхи.
«Кожне питання, яке ми ставимо картам, уже має відповідь у
нашій душі. Таро допомагає почути її голос.»
Через Таро я вчуся не шукати «правильні»