Recent work

Gender-Based Violence Research Consultant, HIAS
October 2024 – January 2025

At HIAS, I researched LGBTQ+ refugee protection, focusing on trans asylum seekers. Through interviews and data analysis, I identified key challenges, developed a communications strategy, and refined policy recommendations. My work strengthened HIAS’s approach to trans advocacy and support.

Researcher and Photo/Video Producer, Bard College
September 2022 – May 2024

At Bard College, I worked at the intersection of research, media, and human rights. Under Masha Gessen at the Russian Independent Media Archive (PEN America/Bard), I analyzed over 600 articles, mapping the linguistic shifts in queer representation within Russian independent media. At the OSUN Center for Human Rights and the Arts, I led video and photo production, built a digital archive of more than 50 events, and commissioned projects. At the Bard Center for the Study of Hate, I researched and drafted strategic frameworks for NGOs to combat hate speech.

Journalist, Current Time TV (RFE/RL)
August 2019 – December 2021

I produced multimedia stories on human rights, LGBTQ+ issues, public health, drug policy, and politics in Russia. Over two and a half years, I conducted 100+ interviews and managed the entire production process—from pitching to editing. Working under tight deadlines with an international editorial team, I delivered high-impact reporting in Russian. This work ultimately led to my exile. Here’s a translation of one of my latest reports for RFE/RL: Refusing 'To Morally Justify Evil’: How Anti-War Russian Orthodox Priests Adapt To Survive’

My photography has been featured by e-flux, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, Bard College, and beyond. I have written for Cosmopolitan, Marie Claire Russia, and Gate Magazine London, covering business, lifestyle, and fashion.

Beyond journalism and research, I built a digital platform of 35,000+ followers, using Instagram for audience-driven storytelling. I collaborated with Netflix, Channel 4, Penguin Books, Visit Britain, Uniqlo, Topshop, ASOS, L’Oréal, and other international brands, translating brand narratives into sharp, engaging content. I also led high-impact PR campaigns, including Protect Against STIs for Public Health England (45,000+ reach) and Night Owl for Transport for London (30,000+ reach). At Next, one of the UK’s largest retailers, I grew the brand’s Russian social media following by 20,000+ in two months, reaching 126,000+. I refined marketing strategies, analyzed audience trends, and co-led the Next Christmas Launch for 200+ guests.

For a full resume, please get in touch via email.


Selected Publications and Projects in English:

Gay and Lesbian Review

  • On Vanity: A personal essay on Russia’s repression of queer rights, and visibility

Global Commons (Open Society University Network) 

  • On Grief and Borders:  A personal essay on grief, nostalgia, and border politics. 

  • On Exodus: An essay exploring the experience of emigration amid the war in Ukraine.

Video (English)