Nataliya Ryaba on what it takes to head Andrey & Julia Dashin's Foundation

Nataliya Ryaba, Head of Andrey & Julia Dashin's Foundation, talks to CBN about the foundation's work and vision, as well as her own personal aspirations and the qualities that make her job so rewarding.

How has your experience working at Andrey and Julia Dashin’s Foundation been so far?

My work at the Andrey & Julia Dashin Foundation is more than just a job - it's a purposeful mission I embrace wholeheartedly. From the beginning, I've felt a strong connection with the Foundation's vision. Heading this Foundation is both challenging and incredibly rewarding. It requires professional dedication and emotional resilience because the work touches your heart in a way few roles can. I treat the Foundation as if it were my own - it occupies my thoughts and fuels my passion. Even after four years, I still find myself moved by the stories that come through our doors. I carry these experiences with me. But I believe that's an integral part of this work - you can't support people meaningfully without connecting with their struggles. Seeing the ripple effect of our efforts is immensely fulfilling. Witnessing someone regain their strength, reignite hope, or rediscover their purpose is truly rewarding. Our work goes beyond just offering help - it's about building bridges, healing divides, and empowering individuals and communities to reach their full potential. That's why I'm so passionate about the Foundation - it represents hope for a better future and a relentless commitment to making that future a reality.

How do you believe the Foundation drives positive change?

The Foundation serves as a voice for the unheard and a beacon for those who feel lost. We listen to the causes, the people, and the silent struggles that often go unnoticed. Our mission is to provide a platform for those who deserve to be heard and to shed light on issues that might otherwise remain in the shadows. We lend a helping hand when needed, instil hope where it has nearly faded, and strive to restore faith in humanity. We challenge societal norms, inspire communities to unite, and support initiatives driven by passion and purpose. Whether individuals or organisations, we stand with those who strive for change, supporting social innovation and projects with far-reaching and long-term impact.

What are the Foundation’s key areas of interest?

Our focus is on the most vulnerable members of our society, particularly children with illnesses and disabilities, many from families struggling financially. Our mission is not only to provide immediate support but also to create pathways for long-term inclusion and empowerment within our communities. We assist in various ways - funding specialised therapies, purchasing essential equipment, launching educational programs, and organising workshops that inspire and educate. Beyond social support, we have a strong commitment to environmental stewardship, focusing on sustainability and local ecosystem restoration. Our work is holistic; we aim to nurture both the people and the environment because the two are deeply interconnected.

How are local communities benefiting from the Foundation’s work?

Driven by a genuine desire to give back to the community that welcomed us with open arms and the place we proudly call home, we strive to tackle pressing social and environmental challenges by collaborating with like-minded individuals and organisations. Together, we can amplify our efforts, reach more people, and create lasting change. We seek to uplift, include, and empower through our funding programs, community projects, and educational and environmental initiatives.

Are there any new plans or projects for the new year?

We remain committed to fostering social inclusion, diversity, empathy, and kindness. Specifically, this year, we aim to deepen our impact by initiating projects that promote equal opportunities for all, focusing on advocating for people with disabilities and supporting their integration into society. We are also considering broadening our reach by launching new projects aimed at the younger generation - programs designed to inspire, educate, and empower future change makers. We plan to continue supporting initiatives that will have a significant positive effect on our communities.

What keeps you inspired?

What inspires me is the transformative power of kindness and human connection. Witnessing someone's journey unfold and seeing their resilience while knowing that positive change is happening is incredibly fulfilling. Meeting passionate, like-minded visionaries, sharing ideas, and collaborating on meaningful projects energises and motivates me daily. It's in the small moments - the smile of a child whose life has been touched by our work, the heartfelt gratitude expressed in a simple "thank you”, the warmth of a hug from someone we've helped - that I find my spark. The hope we ignite in others fuels my passion. This work is more than just a professional endeavour; it's a personal calling. I am moved by the realisation that, even in the darkest times, the light of hope can shine through. I'm inspired to witness others reborn, find their purpose, pursue their dreams, and rediscover their belief in the goodness of humanity. I wake up every day with a sense of purpose, knowing that our actions and efforts leave a lasting imprint of compassion, kindness and hope for a brighter future.