On February 24, 2022 I Asked Myself
“What Can I Do?”
I can use my knowledge for social good.
Design is such a powerful tool. Almost immediately after the war broke out, I started thinking of ways that I could raise money for the Ukrainian people. I then realized that thinking bigger-picture could be me biting off more than I could chew.
I wasn’t exactly sure how I could contribute quite yet, but I didn’t care. That’s when I decided to design something & then see where it snowballed. Thankfully I went about the creative process in that way, because it ended up being something quite beautiful.
Ultimately, I created an illustration of a Tryzub (Trident). The Tryzub is Ukraine’s Coat of Arms. You can think of it as how the USA sees the Bald Eagle. My entire childhood I’ve seen this symbol as something to be proud of, and seeing it disrespected maddened me to no end.
Creating social impact at the local level is where I found myself. I grew up Ukrainian Orthodox, so through my church is where my activism mainly lives.
Since that day, I have raised, helped in raising, and continue to raise thousands of dollars for local Ukrainian Refugees in the Lorain County, Ohio area. We have sold hundreds of items with my Tryzub design on them. This money has gone directly back to refugee families.
My own family has also been able to sponsor 2 refugee families, and assist in welcoming 20 more to Lorain County. Without design, I wouldn’t be able to help those who need it most.