Iryna Kryuchenko – participant in the 2025 regional competition “Woman of Donetsk Region,” nominated in the category “Creator of Change and Opportunities”
Iryna Kryuchenko is a woman who turned culture into a weapon against the oblivion of traditions and folk memory in Donetsk region. She was born and raised in Volnovakha district and from her youth felt the call to preserve the folk songs, traditions, and rituals of her native land. For almost twenty years, she traveled around the villages of Donetsk region, recording folklore, created the band “Zagraiarochka” and recreated authentic rituals on stage in traditional costumes.
Full-scale war forced Ms. Iryna to leave her home. She survived occupation and illness, but took with her a priceless spiritual treasure — an archive of ethnographic expeditions with recordings of folk songs, customs, and memories of the people of Donetsk region. Today, the folklorist lives in Germany, but her heart and work belong to Ukraine. Together with her daughters, she created the ensemble “Voice of the Steppe,” which brings authentic songs of her native land to the world.
She is the author of scientific articles, a participant in all-Ukrainian conferences, and the initiator of the inclusion of elements of the intangible cultural heritage of Donetsk region in regional and national lists. Her master classes on traditional crafts are a living school of culture for Ukrainians and friends of Ukraine abroad.
Iryna dreams of returning to a free Volnovakha and creating an Ethnocenter where young people can learn about the true history of their native land, revive crafts, and feel the unity of generations. “I dream of the day when I can return home with Ukraine. My heart always yearns for Donetsk region,” she admits.
Iryna Kryuchenko's story is an example of courage, love for her native land, and faith in the power of culture. She proves that Donetsk Oblast has its own history, identity, and voice that resonates throughout the world.
The detailed story of the contest participant can be found at: https://surl.li/bwarea
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