Source:
KAT SIENIUC
The Globe and Mail (includes correction)
Published
Last updated
Ruslana Lyzhychko – known just as Ruslana to her fans – is one of the most famous pop stars in Ukraine. But rather than diamonds and gold chains draped around her neck, a Ukrainian flag hangs like a scarf. The Ukrainian pop singer and activist was a leader in this past winter’s Maidan protests in Kiev, where she sang to demonstrators nightly in -25 degree weather.
This year, she received the U.S. Secretary of State’s Woman of Courage Award from Michelle Obama, and the Atlantic Council’s 2014 Distinguished Humanitarian Leadership Award.
Ms. Lyzhychko was in the country for Canada’s National Ukrainian festival, where she performed on the weekend.
She spoke to The Globe and Mail with the assistance an interpreter.