Yana Matviychuk, a prominent Ukrainian entrepreneur and philanthropist, is known for founding the creative event company ARENA CS and establishing the NGO “Libertarian Perspective.” She is also recognized as the creator of the Business Arena YouTube channel.
In 2004, Matviychuk Yana initiated ARENA CS, leveraging a modest starting capital of $300, which eventually grew into a multimillion-dollar enterprise. Despite the company’s success, her life took a dramatic turn with the outbreak of the full-scale war between Russia and Ukraine.
Reflecting on the onset of the war, Yana Matviychuk recounted the pivotal moment when the invasion began. Despite plans to attend a significant event forum in Lviv, the morning brought the jarring sound of explosions, signaling the start of war. Alone in Kyiv with her younger daughter, while her husband and eldest daughter were away. Yana Matviychuk acted swiftly, urging her colleagues en route to Lviv to prioritize their safety and return to their families.
First day of the war
Finding herself amidst the chaos, Yana experienced the abrupt halt of daily life as the conflict escalated. Seeking refuge in a shelter with her mother and younger daughter, she grappled with fear. She realized the stark contrast between her successful life and the harrowing reality of hiding from bombs.
The impact on her business, ARENA CS, was profound. The office in Kramatorsk, crucial for international connections, faced severe disruption due to the invasion. Communication was lost, leaving uncertainty about the safety of their team. While the company persevered and continued operating, the fate of some employees remained unknown. With two managers unaccounted for, one forced to seek safety in Russia and the other taken to a filtration camp.
Yana Matviychuk – fundraiser
Amidst this turmoil, Yana Matviychuk took on the role of a fundraiser. She secured over 100 million hryvnas for essential supplies. Yana also spent money on humanitarian aid, and support for the army and affected regions. Despite the initial scarcity of resources within Ukraine, she mobilized support from corporate clients, dedicating relentless effort to organize aid efforts, even while seeking refuge outside Kyiv.
Facing daily challenges due to bombings, Yana Matviychuk described the dire situation without basic utilities like electricity, internet, and water at her home. However, her commitment to maintaining operations for her employees led to the provision of essential facilities at the office. That made it possible to continue the work.
Looking ahead, Matviychuk remains resolute in her belief that Ukraine will prevail. She emphasizes the need for national recovery and modernization after victory, underscoring the pivotal role of Ukrainian businesses in the country’s reconstruction. Encouraging fellow Ukrainians to persevere, she urges support for the Armed Forces and emphasizes the crucial role of business and donations in aiding the country’s resurgence.
