🇪🇺 TEEN European Digital Community: Chestnut Tree from Kyiv, Ukraine

Chestnut Tree

Hi, I’m Anna from Ukraine! 🇺🇦 I am a youth leader, content creator, and the Head of the NGO “United Youth”. My background is in international relations and diplomacy (having served in youth councils at the MFA and UNICEF, and spoken at the COP29 climate conference). However, my true passion lies in storytelling. Whether I am analyzing the psychology of human behavior, exploring aesthetics on my blog, or translating complex civic topics into engaging digital content, I love connecting with people. I believe that cultural arts and diplomacy are deeply intertwined. I’m joining ForesTEEN to explore how creative arts can empower teenagers, foster emotional resilience, and become a tool for global dialogue. Let’s connect and create meaningful narratives together!

The soil / the need

I was looking for a way to express complex ideas: about society, psychology, and human connections in a way that truly resonates with people emotionally. I realized that dry facts or formal speeches aren’t enough; I needed the power of storytelling and empathy to genuinely reach an audience.

The first seed

Public speaking, youth leadership, and digital storytelling

Tell us about that first spark

My “stage” wasn’t a traditional theatre at first, it was the platform of youth activism and diplomacy. The spark happened when I realized that public speaking, whether at international events like COP29 or advocating for youth in Ukraine, is a performative art. You have to understand the psychology of your audience, manage the “script” of the dialogue, and use your voice to inspire action.

Roots (people & experiences that shaped your path)

My roots are the young people I work with as the Head of the NGO “United Youth”. Their stories, struggles, and hopes constantly shape my understanding of the world. Additionally, my deep interest in psychology and international relations acts as my root system, helping me understand the complex “characters” and hidden motives in the global society.

The trunk (what keeps you in theatre)

The realization that culture, art, and storytelling are the most powerful forms of “soft power”. As a content creator, finding new ways to direct, produce, and share narratives keeps me deeply connected to the performative arts. I see how creative expression helps youth process reality and build resilience.

Branches (future / desire)

I want to merge cultural arts with civic engagement. I imagine using performative formats (like the immersive walking discussions of ForesTEEN) to help Ukrainian youth process their experiences, build community, and engage in cultural diplomacy. I hope to gain new tools for storytelling to share on my blog and with my NGO.

Are you currently involved in cultural activities?

Yes, regularly

If you were a tree, what kind of tree would you be? Why?

I would be a Chestnut Tree (the symbol of the Kyiv region where I live). It has a strong, resilient trunk that can withstand harsh winters, representing endurance and strength. But in the spring, it blooms with beautiful, candle-like white flowers, bringing light and aesthetics to everyone around it. Its deep roots represent my strong connection to my community, while its beautiful blooming branches represent my passion for creating inspiring content and sharing ideas with the world.

Contact

Email: annahusenytsia@gmail.com

Instagram: @husenytsiaa