– Tell us, please, your story in America. Where did you live and work before Texas?
My name is Tatyana. I came to America with the help of the United for Ukraine program three months ago from Ukraine with my twin daughters. This decision was made unexpectedly for me, unplanned and quickly. The main reason is to keep my children safe. The last thing I wanted was for them to hear explosions all around, hide in the basement, and not be able to live their full lives.
Then it was 1.5 months of a long journey. First, Poland, for almost three weeks, we walked around beautiful Warsaw. Then a long flight to Mexico (the first flight for my girls and so long). We had three tiresome transfers, but we heroically survived. Upon arrival in Mexico City, we were warmly welcomed by a camp for Ukrainian refugees, which was organized on the territory of one of the parks on the initiative of active American volunteers and the Mexican authorities. It was an exciting and unforgettable three weeks for us. I will never stop admiring the people who worked on this project. They are very cool: active, positive, kind, and sympathetic. We got a new experience in our lives, many impressions, and new acquaintances. There is a lot to be said about this stage.
So, on 05/16/2022, we flew to Dallas, where my cousin Liel and her husband Michael were already waiting for us. The meeting was very long-awaited since Liel had dreamed that we were there. But, of course, if not for the war in my country, this would hardly have happened.
Our hometown is now very restless. It is subjected to constant shelling and has lost its usual comfortable conditions (no gas and water). But until recently, I woke up a happy person, went to my favorite job, took my children to school and circles, went in for sports, saw friends, and on weekends we went somewhere. And most importantly, I could see my parents every day. Now they stayed there, and we are here, and yes, we also see each other every day, but now only by video call.
Before I came to America, I worked as the Deputy Director of Economic Affairs in a large general hospital. I had many important tasks daily, subordinates and a lot of responsibility. In addition, I was involved in implementing various investment projects for my hospital. One of the latest is the acquisition of modern equipment for hyperbaric oxygenation of the body at the expense of investments from the German Embassy. And I loved it.
– Did you come to Austin by choice, or was it a coincidence, and what do you like about this city the most?
Why my daughters and I came to Austin, I already mentioned earlier. My cousin Liel has been living in America with her family for three years. Therefore, our choice was obvious! It is the first city in America we saw, so we can only compare it to the Ukrainian cities we had visited. The first impression is a lot of space. Everything is located quite dispersed and free. Austin is a beautiful city. The seating areas are especially impressive. I have never seen so many places in my hometown. There is something for everyone here. At the moment, I can only judge Austin by appearance since not much time has passed to understand all the pros and cons.
– Do you participate in any projects of the Russian-speaking community?
I have no experience participating in any projects yet, but I would not mind! The only project that my sister and I are currently involved in is the creation and operation of our own cleaning company, Cinderella’s Cleaning Services.
This idea was born during my long journey to America. At first, of course, we have to work on everything ourselves, but we plan to develop and expand the boundaries of our activities. I hope all my skills acquired in the previous work will be helpful in this case.
– What do you do outside of work? What are your interests and hobbies?
Free time from daily worries, we love to devote time to sports activities. I like a variety of fitness, and my children prefer basketball and swimming. We also like to walk a lot, but in Austin, due to the intense heat, it can be difficult.
– How are your relations with your homeland? Do you miss any aspects of life in your country?
Do we miss our country? Yes very much. Our whole life remained there, everything we achieved, everything that we got used to and loved. My family stayed there: mom and dad, my brother and his family, a dog and a cat, and many more dear and close people. We loved to gather at the same table on holidays. We always had something to discuss and something to rejoice. We loved to laugh at some comedy together. And what a pleasure it was to surprise your loved ones and see the smiles on their faces! Parents always taught us not to quarrel with relatives and gave us practical advice. Thanks to them, we have grown as we are and can raise our children by a worthy example.
Yes, our family is also here, but it would be fantastic if we were all together. Family is happiness, comfort, and peace.
– What professional groups do you participate in? Do you think Austin needs a Russian Cultural Center?
Currently, neither my family nor I am involved in the life of professional groups in Austin. But that’s for now. The plans, of course, have such a desire. I would like for Russian-speaking groups to exist and develop. I have good organizational skills and can help in carrying out any events. Previously, I was good at it: I was an active member of the trade union, the head of the parent committee, and I helped the children of the creative circle to prepare performances.
The Russian Cultural Center should exist in Austin. Interesting projects should be implemented, communication between compatriots and perhaps some help to each other. After all, this is the only way to adapt to the new and receive/give support.
– What would you like to wish the Russian-speaking residents of Austin and Texas?
May, each of our compatriots, each Russian-speaking resident of Texas, feel like a needed, happy and free person here. I wish you all good health, prospects, and development. You can never stop achieving more than you already did, and there will be success! Peace and tranquility to us!
Contact information:
Tetiana Cherepanova
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/100000604269361