Tamara Balaeva

Editor

I’ve been working in journalism all my life, despite several attempts to leave the field. I started in Zaporizhzhia as a host on wired Radio Three, then moved to Kyiv, where I worked for daily newspapers. Later, I began writing stories for Focus magazine and the Babel website. As a freelance author, I was published in Ukrainian Esquire, Charitum, Reporters, and other outlets. I’ve also collaborated with charities such as Enjoying Life, savED, and UAnimals.

Since 2024, I’ve been an editor in the long-form stories department at LIGA.net and a mentor for novice journalists at the Media Development Foundation.

I am convinced that there is nothing more fascinating in the world than human stories.

Publications of the author

How Ukrainian scientist Yury Gogotsi discovered a new class of materials and influenced global technologies: an interview
Yury Gogotsi is one of the most highly cited Ukrainian scientists in the world. In the early 1990s, he went to Germany for his studies, planning to return to Ukraine shortly...
I want to have a wedding in Ukrainian attire: 15 brands that create clothing and shoes for brides
A luxurious white dress with Swarovski crystals, a modern designer gown inspired by Impressionists, and a traditional Ukrainian striy with refined embroidery can all...
“It’s an honor to support Ukrainian women who have lost loved ones”: How the Maple Hope Foundation helps Ukrainians find their footing during the war
Svitlana Kominko holds a PhD in developmental psychology and is an instructor at the School of Business + Media at the British Columbia Institute of Technology . She...
From mushroom salt to bacon jam: 15 Ukrainian spice and sauce brands
Yellow Blue has curated a selection of 15 Ukrainian brands that produce seasoned salts, spices, and sauces using farm-grown vegetables, berries, and fruits. These makers...
“People abroad see only numbers and the names of generals.” Why a mangaka in Japan writes about the war in Ukraine — interview
The Japanese manga Battle Scar about the war in Ukraine is based on the stories of a Ukrainian soldier fighting in the Kharkiv region, a girl trying to leave occupation, and...
From craft wine to backpacks and plaid shirts — 15 veteran brands worth supporting
Yellow Blue has brought together 15 businesses established by Ukrainian veterans and active-duty military of the Russo-Ukrainian war . The selection features craft wine,...
“Not one-off aid, but sustained support.” How the De-Occupation Shop sells produce from farmers in liberated communities in the Kharkiv region — interview
In the summer of 2023, volunteers from Kharkiv working with the Volonterska foundation were active in liberated communities. They delivered medicine and food, repaired roofs...
“I want people not to be afraid when they hear I’m from Ukraine.” Model from Zaporizhzhia Julia Ratner on work, war, and a film with Angelina Jolie
Julia Ratner is a 26-year-old model from Zaporizhzhia . She collaborates with iconic fashion houses such as Valentino, Chanel, Fendi, Christian Dior, and Celine. This year...

How we can help

We support businesses, media, and communities