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Lisa Yasko
Member of Parliament at Verkhovna Rada of Ukraine, Head of Ukrainian Delegation at PACE
Professional Background
Lisa Yasko is a renowned Ukrainian political figure and advocate for cultural diplomacy, innovation, and arts as a means of social and political change. As the Head of the Ukrainian Delegation at PACE (Parliamentary Assembly of the Council of Europe), she plays a pivotal role in shaping foreign policy and enhancing interparliamentary relations. Her extensive background includes being a Member of the Ukrainian Parliament, where she has served on the Committee on Foreign Affairs & Interparliamentary Cooperation.
Lisa's work has emphasized the significance of building bilateral and multilateral relationships, enhancing Ukraine's representation and voice in international forums. Her passion for leadership and social responsibility is evident through her efforts to reform governmental communications and promote creativity in the political sphere.
In addition to her political endeavors, Lisa has a rich history in the cultural sector, having worked with organizations such as Yellow Blue Strategy and Clover Films. She was instrumental in implementing policy recommendations for improving access to music education while working for the UK Department of Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. Her dedication to the arts, particularly filmmaking, is clear as she believes in their capacity to drive positive change in society.
Education and Achievements
Lisa Yasko is an accomplished academic, having earned a Master of Public Policy from the prestigious Blavatnik School of Government at the University of Oxford. She is the first Ukrainian to attain this degree, reflecting her commitment to learning and leadership. Her educational journey also includes a Master's and Bachelor's degree in Political Science from Kyiv National Taras Shevchenko University, as well as studies at Lomonosov Moscow State University (MSU). Furthermore, she is a graduate of the Caux Scholar Program, where she further honed her skills in leadership and change making.
Lisa's commitment to nurturing future leaders is evidenced by her scholarship at the Zavtra.UA initiative, which empowers young leaders across Ukraine. Additionally, she was recognized as a scholar at the Clinton Global Initiative University in 2014 and participated in the European Forum Alpbach in Austria, cultivating her perspective on global collaboration.
Achievements
Throughout her career, Lisa has made significant contributions to various sectors, particularly in crisis communications and governmental reform. She worked with the Ukraine Crisis Media Center, where she focused on government reform and strategic communications. Her initiatives have involved launching national campaigns, such as Witness and Hop Nederland Hop, and organizing cultural exhibitions like the art gallery in the Presidential Administration of Ukraine.
Her creative endeavors led her to establish Kyiv Music Labs, a startup dedicated to promoting Ukrainian music, underscoring her commitment to cultural diplomacy and the creative economy. Lisa has also volunteered for numerous social projects, reflecting her deep-seated belief in social responsibility in both politics and business. Her engagement in multiple sectors has earned her accolades such as the Diamond Sabre Awards Winner in 2015.
Conclusion
Lisa Yasko exemplifies a dedicated leader focused on fostering dialogue and collaboration in the realms of politics and culture. Through her various roles, from the Ukrainian Parliament to her initiatives in arts and education, she has consistently demonstrated her commitment to effecting positive change both domestically and on the international stage. Lisa's remarkable journey, rooted in her education and enriched by her extensive experience, positions her as a beacon of hope and progress in Ukraine and beyond.
