I am based in glorious Vancouver, Canada, where I have been living for the last 8 years. I am hoping to blog about something very specific, something that I believe I have a unique perspective on. I want to bring a fresh take on everything Russia-related –  news, events, culture, media, politics, fashion…the list of topics to explore is endless.

I speak Russian, I love my culture, and I want people to understand it. I feel that I can give an interesting take on Russia – a fresh perspective from someone who has been born and raised in the USSR, but grew up in North America. I want to steer away from the stereotype wrought, lackluster approach to Russia ubiquitous in the media nowadays. Hence, I am writing this blog!

In recent years, it seems the interest toward Russia has not ceased. In fact, it seems people are as fascinated by this country as ever. Winston Churchill once said, “Russia is a riddle wrapped in a mystery inside an enigma.” I think, to this day, Churchill’s quote is quite characteristic of how many people feel about Russia.

So, through my insider knowledge, I’m here to try to make this great geographic and cultural enormity called Russia less of a riddle. I grew up surrounded by Russian culture, but having had moved to Canada in my teen years, I have come to accept the Canadian culture as my own as well. The West and the East juxtaposed in my view of the world have, I hope, negated any potential bias in me, so that I can present any story straight up.

With that, welcome to YTFiles!