Watch Event Video
A conversation with a
Olena Zelenska
First Lady of Ukraine
and
Valentina Izmirlieva
Professor of Slavic Languages and Literatures; Director of the Harriman Institute
Ukraine is often described through the lens of resilience — the remarkable ability of its people to withstand war, uncertainty, and profound disruption. But resilience alone does not tell the full story of Ukraine. To understand the country today — its choices, its strength, and its vision for the future — we must also understand its history, culture, identity, and place in the world.
In this World Leaders Forum conversation, a special representative will explore why deeper knowledge of Ukraine matters far beyond its borders. Drawing on Ukraine’s experience of resilience and on their work to advance Ukrainian studies globally, they will reflect on the role universities can play in turning global attention to Ukraine into lasting knowledge and understanding.
Hosted at Columbia University, home to a longstanding tradition of Ukrainian studies at the Harriman Institute, the conversation will invite students to consider a broader question: What can understanding Ukraine teach us about the world we live in today — and the future we are shaping together?
Columbia University students are invited to participate in a moderated question-and-answer session.
This program is cosponsored by the Harriman Institute.