EP.18: From Work-Life Balance to War-Life Balance with Yuliia Turba

In Ukraine, “work-life balance” has become “war-life balance.” In this episode of “Yak ty? Ukraine Live”, Kyiv-based public policy specialist Yuliia Turba reflects on how Russia’s full-scale invasion has reshaped everyday life especially for her generation. A Generation Rewritten by War Yuliia was living in Budapest when the invasion began. Far from home but emotionally torn, she soon made the decision to return to Ukraine, despite the risks. She speaks candidly about those first surreal days, the emotional disorientation of being safe abroad, and the deep sense of survivor’s guilt that followed. Since then, life in Kyiv has been anything but ordinary. Yuliia describes the daily rhythm of war: checking the news for missile attacks, working from shelters, making future plans while fully aware they may not materialize. For young Ukrainians, , she says, grief, hope and seriousness coexist in everyday moments. About Yuliia Turba Yuliia Turba holds a Master’s degree from Central European University. After returning to Ukraine, she worked for the United Nations in Kyiv. But over time, the institutional neutrality and bureaucracy felt misaligned with her sense of urgency. Wanting to do more, she recently left her UN position to become an advocacy manager at the Snake Island Institute, where she now works to amplify Ukraine’s defense sector abroad. Why Listen This episode is a powerful reminder that war is not only fought on the frontlines. Yuliia’s voice captures the emotional landscape of a generation coming of age under air-raids and choosing to stay, raise their voice, and act. 👉 Listen for a moving, personal perspective on what it means to live and fight for the future of Ukraine. Resources Connect with Yuliia Turba Instagram: @iamturba LinkedIn: Yuliia Turba Connect with Luzia Tschirky Instagram: @LuziaTschirky LinkedIn: Luzia Tschirky Website: www.luziatschirky.ch Book: Live aus der Ukraine