Alex began getting involved with the local Los Angeles Ukrainian Community in the summer of 2023 for his master’s degree capstone. Throughout the planning process, he got close to like-minded people who wanted to make a difference. He currently volunteers at the Ukrainian Arts Center, Post Angeles, and the Ukrainian Cultural Center, inspired by the positive impact these nonprofits have on Ukrainians abroad and the Los Angeles community. He’s a first-generation immigrant from Uzbekistan and Ukrainian on his mother’s side. When the 2022 invasion started, Alex was in the United States Marine Corps and knew Ukrainian servicemembers directly affected by the conflict. This sparked his passion for international relations, particularly regarding the tense history between Ukraine and Russia. Now working as an organizer for the labor union, Alex is committed to empowering the local labor force for better pay, working conditions, and quality of life.