Volodymyr Sheiko, now General Director of the Ukrainian Institute, spent 12 impactful years at the British Council. His career spanned roles as a translator, marketing manager, and arts director during critical moments in Ukraine’s history, including the Revolution of Dignity and the onset of Russia’s war against Ukraine.
‘The British Council invested in partnerships between institutions and organisations from both countries. And I think that is a model that I replicated in the Ukrainian Institute when I joined in 2018’, Volodymyr shares.
One of his highlights at the British Council was modernising marketing strategies. ‘I’m proud of this shift to digital communications and targeted advertising. That was really innovative back then.’
As Director Arts in the Ukraine, Volodymyr adapted UK-focused cultural projects to engage Ukrainian audiences, deepening his personal connection with the UK. ‘I think it’s still a passionate love affair [...] I don’t think I have a stronger cultural affinity to any other country anywhere in the world than I do with the UK.’
Now leading Ukraine’s public cultural institution, Volodymyr credits the British Council for shaping his approach to fostering sustainable cultural relations. ‘In the context of Ukraine’s reconstruction and rebuilding, the British Council is absolutely instrumental [...] and I think that perception will endure.’
Volodymyr’s journey highlights the enduring power of cultural collaboration in uniting nations and creating lasting impact.
This story is based on an interview with Volodymyr for our 90th-anniversary project exploring the British Council experiences of individuals from around the world.
Discover the full collection at Oral Histories: The British Council in Action.