Zelenska was born in Kryvyi Rih, Ukraine, in 1978. She studied journalism at the Ukrainian National University of Kyiv, later working as a reporter and presenter for several television channels in Ukraine. In 2008, she co-founded the Kvartal 95 Studio with her future husband and several other partners. The studio produces comedies and satirical shows, as well as feature films and TV series.
As a filmmaker, Zelenska has been involved in several notable productions. She co-wrote and produced the popular Ukrainian film “The Stronghold” (2017), which received critical acclaim and won several awards. The film tells the story of a group of children who defend a castle against their enemies, drawing on Ukrainian folklore and history. Zelenska also directed and produced the documentary “Lemkin. The Prosecutor” (2017), which chronicles the life of Raphael Lemkin, the Polish-Jewish lawyer who coined the term “genocide” and campaigned for international laws against it.
Zelenska’s work as a public figure began to take on a new dimension in 2019, when her husband declared his candidacy for the Ukrainian presidency. Zelenska became one of his key supporters and advisers, participating in his campaign events, interviews, and social media campaigns. Her role as the potential first lady of Ukraine also drew attention, with many Ukrainians curious about her plans and priorities for the country.
After Volodymyr Zelensky’s election, Olena Zelenska took on new responsibilities and projects. She launched the “Kind Heart” foundation, which aims to provide support and resources to disadvantaged children and families in Ukraine. The foundation’s activities include organizing charity events, distributing aid packages, and funding medical treatments and education programs.
Zelenska has also been active in promoting gender equality and women’s rights, speaking out about issues such as domestic violence, discrimination, and women’s representation in politics and media. In January 2020, she co-hosted the “Women’s Voices” conference in Kyiv, which brought together female leaders and activists from Ukraine and other countries. The conference addressed topics such as women’s health, entrepreneurship, and social activism.
Zelenska’s role as the first lady of Ukraine has not been without controversy. Some have criticized her involvement in politics and public affairs, arguing that she is exceeding her constitutional role and interfering with the government’s work. Others have questioned her and her husband’s ties to the Kvartal 95 Studio, which some see as a conflict of interest.
However, many Ukrainians see Zelenska as a fresh and dynamic figure, bringing new perspectives and ideas to the country’s leadership. Her work as a filmmaker, producer, and philanthropist has earned her respect and admiration, and her advocacy for women’s rights and social issues has inspired many Ukrainians, especially young people.
As Ukraine faces challenges such as corruption, economic hardship, and conflict with Russia, the role of its first lady will likely continue to evolve and spark debate. But Olena Zelenska’s energy, creativity, and dedication to social change make her a prominent and influential figure, both in Ukraine and beyond.