Ukrainian Lessons with a Native Speaker | 8 Years of Teaching | Author of a book "Fast track Ukrainian" | Linguistic Degree | Engaging & Effective | All levels

Find out more about Karina

• Do you speak this language fluently because of your origins or because a teacher inspired you to learn?

  In the embrace of Ukraine, my birthplace, my family proudly upheld our Ukrainian heritage across generations. Amidst the linguistic diversity of Central Ukraine, where Russian often prevailed, we steadfastly spoke only Ukrainian, nurturing our cultural identity.

• Can you name a living, historical or fictional character that you think is the emblematic representative of the language's culture?

  When considering the individuals who best represent Ukrainian culture, the first person that comes to mind is Shevchenko. This poet embodied the rebellious and thoughtful nature of Ukrainians. He wrote extensively about the suffering experienced by various people, yet he never succumbed to adversity. Shevchenko's unwavering resilience became a symbol of the unyielding spirit of his fellow countrymen, reflecting the deep desire for justice and intellectual enlightenment.
  
  Another character that perfectly encapsulates Ukrainian culture is Mother. In poetry, Ukraine is often referred to as a motherly figure. This personification emphasizes the nurturing and protective qualities associated with the country. Like a wise and caring mother, Ukraine imparts wisdom, supports growth, and takes care of its people, embodying the essence of maternal love within its cultural identity.

• Is there a typical word, phrase, tradition or behaviour in the language that you particularly like?

  Within the realm of school education, there are certain poems that hold timeless wisdom, captivating the hearts of students. One such verse by the poet Vasyl Simonenko I recall speaks of our unique identities:
  
  
  
  "Do you know that you are a person? That your smile is unique and your pain is unique…Tomorrow you'll be here no longer…And to live you must rush, To love you must rush…. You are a person whether you like it or not, and your eyes - only you have got."
  
  
  
  It calls for us to abandon comparisons, acknowledging our individuality and the swift passage of time, urging us to embrace life and love with urgency.

• Why does speaking this language matter to you?

  Language, in its essence, encompasses the very fabric of culture, embodying a distinct persona. Ukrainian language, in its graceful demeanour, assumes the form of a beautiful and tender woman, tenderly extolling the virtues of nature, love, and wisdom. Yet, there are moments when this language transforms into an indignant and resolute figure, a courageous mother unafraid to speak truths and fiercely defend her people and land. Throughout history, numerous endeavours have been made by the Russians to suppress and eradicate the Ukrainian language, but its resilience remains unparalleled, for its spirit cannot be extinguished.
  
  The Ukrainian language, like an immortal force, perseveres against all odds, standing as a testament to the unyielding spirit of its speakers.

• What is the main difficulty in learning this language and what can help the process of learning?

  The most difficult is to learn the word changes (Cases). There are 7 cases in Ukrainian, which makes it difficult to learn. But my students showed great results constantly practicing speaking with me and their friends since the beginning of their studying. Now they have no difficulties with the grammar!

• Provide a valuable anecdote related to your language learning or your days at school.

  Unfortunately, I'm bad at anecdotes!

• How has travel or a specific trip helped you to increase your skill and knowledge of the language?

  Thank to annual trips to Lviv, I gained deep insight into the Ukrainian language, as Lviv citizens speak Ukrainian in the most poetic way you can ever hear!

• What makes you a Superprof in language?

  Love makes me a Superprof! Love to help people. Love to see them happy when they start understanding complicated things after me explaining them. Love my students as personalities with their unique stories. Love seeing them studying hard, which inspires me to work hard!