Interviews

Renata Litynska is a Ukrainian writer, author of the short story collection Renata Sometimes Writes and co-author of the memory tales Grandma, Tell Me About Yourself. She believes that writing "simply" is difficult, as the ability to bring calm and offer hope in a rapidly changing world is no easy task. Renata shared with us her love for novellas and essays, the process of creating Renata Sometimes Writes and Grandma, Tell Me About Yourself, and her experience presenting her book in Athens, the capital of Greece.

Mariia Kosian is a Ukrainian writer and the author of two novels, "When It Rains in the City of N" and "A Hero Instead of Me", the latter of which is set to be released soon. Her literary journey began with academic work at university, which became the foundation for her first major novel, "When It Rains in the City of N". In January 2025, the author will present her second book, "A Hero Instead of Me", which has been available for pre-order for several weeks now. The book is being published by one of the largest publishing houses in Ukraine – "Vikhola". Mariia shared with Drive Music Media her journey as a writer, the birth of her second novel's concept – created before but set to be published during russia's full-scale war against Ukraine – and the message she hopes to convey through her work.

Tiana Shevett is a Ukrainian illustrator and author of children's books such as Twilight Tales on Halloween Night, Monsters: Not Scary Book at All!, and the sea-themed illustration series Sea Portraits. Her goal is to create magical stories for the youngest readers, helping them feel joy and hope, especially during russia's full-scale war against Ukraine. Through her stories, she teaches children about friendship and brings smiles to their faces. Very soon, her new book Rules of Behavior for Little Witches will be released, where she aims to teach the importance of friendship. Tiana shared with Drive Music Media her thoughts on the new book, the Sea Portraits series, and the message she instills in her books.

Kyrylo Pysarenko is a Ukrainian musician who created his solo project Lightingale, continuing his musical career under this name. His first serious original music project, The Tempest, emerged spontaneously during his university years and concluded after four years of dedicated work. This decision came as all the band members recognized the inefficiency of creating "gargantuan" music. Following this, the musician decided to establish the solo project Lightingale, through which he released the track "Hummingbird". The song explores an important topic: humanity’s purpose in the world. Kyrylo shared his journey into music, his original projects The Tempest and Lightingale, as well as his future plans for his solo career with Drive Music Media.

Maria Shyshak is a Ukrainian singer in the alternative rock genre who has decided to continue her career through her new musical project, ENAVE. Despite her academic background in music, Maria chose to step beyond its confines, showcasing different facets of her personality by experimenting with various genres. This fall, the singer released a new single, "Broken Promises", which became a kind of manifesto for her. Maria shared her journey, from starting out as part of the band Endless Times to creating her own musical project ENAVE, as well as her recent releases, with Drive Music Media.

Olena Tereshchenko, a Ukrainian writer and author of Mages Love Too, believes that rejection from publishers should not discourage new authors from pursuing their craft, nor does it mean that the manuscript is flawed. Despite a pause in writing due to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, she found the strength to complete her novel, which was published and will soon be followed by the second part of Mages Love Too. Olena shared her journey as a writer, her collaboration with Oleksandr Bilohura, and the continuation of her story with Drive Music Media.

Svitlana Vasylchenko is a Ukrainian writer and the author of the novel Island of Forgotten Easter. She firmly believes that without readers, there is only a book, but no story, as every reader interprets it through the prism of their own emotions. After engaging with readers, new questions about the story arise — ones she had never considered before. When Svitlana sent the manuscript to the publisher, russia’s full-scale war against Ukraine began, and she was uncertain whether her book would ever see the light of day. However, the novel Island of Forgotten Easter was published as part of the A Good Day to Live program by Tempora Publishing, carrying profound symbolism in light of today’s events. In an interview, Svitlana shared insights with Drive Music Media about her novel Island of Forgotten Easter, her new book Lviverpool, and her plans to write a trilogy.

Anna Zakletska is a Ukrainian TV and radio host, known as the voice of Radio "Promin" and the face of many television programs in Ukraine. She has always been passionate about exploring her family heritage and has deeply studied the ethnic culture, symbolism, and traditions of the Ukrainian people. Her love for the legacy of past generations inspired her to create her own ethnic clothing brand, Striy. Through this brand, Anna sought not only to preserve the outward appearance of ethnic attire but also to uncover and convey the meaning behind each individual symbol featured on the fabric. The founder firmly believes that the wisdom of ancestors can serve as a powerful tool, and her mission is to bridge that wisdom with the spirit of contemporary events. Anna shared with Drive Music Media how her grandmother's stories laid the foundation for her brand, how she combines ethnic traditions with modernity, and her personal mission in the fashion industry.

Manita is a young Ukrainian singer building her career in Germany. Despite starting her musical journey while living abroad, she writes and performs her songs in Ukrainian, promoting the language on an international level. Very soon, Manita will release her debut album, which she has been working on with her team. Manita shared her thoughts on the upcoming album, building a career abroad, and the importance of spreading Ukrainian culture with Drive Music Media.

Anastasiia Katolichenko is a Ukrainian photographer who, during the war, realized she wouldn’t put her dreams on hold. She decided to leave the legal field and opened her own photo studio. Her work has been featured in magazines, including projects on socially significant topics like "Anorexia" and "Melancholia", which were published in Canadian and British magazines. Anastasiia shared her journey of pursuing her dream, opening her photo studio, and creating the "Anorexia" photo project with Drive Music Media.