Olena Lysenko's Portfolio

Hello, I'm Olena Lysenko — a producer, researcher, communications specialist, and cultural manager. 
As a freelance producer, I’ve contributed to numerous media outlets including National Public Radio, Vox, The New Yorker, and National Geographic. I bring academic experience from my research at the University of Pennsylvania's Annenberg School for Communication, and I'm a former fellow of the American Councils for International Education's Professional Fellows Program where I researched mental health programs. I previously served as Head of PR and Communications at a human rights organization, where I led advocacy campaigns for legislative reform.

Media Production

Since 2014, I have worked as a freelance producer and journalist. My experience includes producing a National Geographic documentary during the COVID-19 pandemic, and reporting from Ukraine for National Public Radio and Vox during Russia's full-scale invasion. Over the past decade, I have pitched, researched, and produced stories across various media formats, including essays, video explainers, documentaries, and podcasts. Below are select bylines showcasing my work:

Since 2014, I have worked a...

Communications

As the Head of PR and Communications at Legal Hundred NGO (2017-2021), I advocated for the rights of Ukrainian veterans and their families. Our think tank researched veteran and army issues, drafted bills, and conducted advocacy campaigns, resulting in 23 new laws that aligned the Ukrainian army with NATO standards. I managed projects with NATO, the UN, and the OSCE, and I co-wrote funding applications for USAID, the National Endowment for Democracy, and the European Endowment for Democracy. Our...