volunteer feature: Stefa C.

In the summer of 2022 Stefa and I were part of a team putting together a

rock and roll fundraiser for Ukraine.

On meeting we discovered that

dedication to our ancestral homeland is but one of many shared passions.

Being with Stefa is a joy.

I'm immensely grateful and happy that she has become an

absolutely integral part of Vira + Friends.

I've asked Stefa to share some of her creative pursuits which you can also explore at https://www.stefaphoto.com.

I imagine you'll find them as inspiring as I do.



Thank you, Stefa, for you unwavering support,

for all that you do to help Vira + Friends grow and

for helping our NYC events run smoothly!

A word from Stefa:

I am fortunate to live in NYC, one of the most inspiring cities in the world.

As a photographer, I have always been fascinated by New York’s unique menagerie of

eclectic people, unique venues, magnificent musical events and visual splendors.

NYC is my photographic canvas and I have spent many years

strolling the streets of Manhattan creating my fine art photography. 

While my subjects were always fun, quirky and whimsical,

in February 2022, the beginning of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine,

my photographs focused on much more solemn subjects:

NYC’s anti-war rallies as well as all the visual signages in storefronts, restaurants, etc. supporting Ukraine. 

The current war in Ukraine was a turning point for me as it not only

re-awakened the love of my parents' homeland, it also inadvertently introduced me to Vira, one of the most talented musicians I have ever had the pleasure of knowing. 

After 10 painstaking years of my preparation and overseeing the editing of

my father’s World War II memoirs as a Freedom Fighter in Ukraine,

his book was finally published and

in March 2025 in conjunction with the official book signing I launched an exhibit entitled

“Chronicles of New York . . . . Solidarity for Ukraine”

featuring many of the photographs from the dozens of

rallies, fundraisers, concerts, etc. which I attended. 

It truly is an honor to be part of

Vira + Friends as well as Ukrainian Music Initiative.

I encourage everyone to attend Vira’s Billion Oyster Project concert

to partake in a musical aquatic wonderland of

Sea Songs of the highest quality!