FOUNDER & CEO

Bogdana 's journey from Ukrainian immigrant to humanitarian leader exemplifies the transformative power of compassion and action. Arriving in the United States in 1992, Bogdana built a distinguished academic career, conducting research at prestigious institutions like Johns Hopkins and the University of Minnesota.

When war erupted in Ukraine, Bogdana's response was immediate and hands-on. She volunteered as an operations manager at the Tesco Refugee Center in Przemysl, Poland, coordinating vital logistics to deliver medicine and medical supplies to Ukrainian hospitals.

Driven by a deep commitment to children affected by conflict, Bogdana founded Chance4Kids. This organization focuses exclusively on the well-being of orphanages, children's homes, and internats (boarding schools for orphaned or abandoned children). Under her leadership, Chance4Kids has expanded its impact, launching the Cross Bridges Program two years later. This initiative specializes in Mental Health & Rehabilitation, addressing the critical needs of children suffering from PTSD and war-related traumas.

Bogdana's unique blend of academic rigor, operational expertise, and heartfelt dedication to children in crisis zones makes her an inspiring leader in the humanitarian sector. Through Chance4Kids, she continues to bridge the gap between immediate aid and long-term healing for the most vulnerable victims of war.

DIRECTOR & PSYCHOLOGIST

Olga Yardelevsky's journey from the USSR to Israel in 2000 uniquely equips her to understand displacement and cultural adaptation. Since becoming a pro-Ukrainian activist in 2014, Olga has been at the forefront of crisis response. When war erupted in Ukraine in 2022, she immediately joined Emergency Psychological Assistance, supporting Ukrainian refugees in Israel.

Olga's hands-on experience includes working at the Tesco Refugee Center in Przemysl, Poland, where she provided crucial psychological support to hundreds fleeing the war. She has also volunteered directly in Ukraine, gaining firsthand insight into the challenges faced by those affected by conflict.

At Cross Bridges, Olga's cross-cultural background and expertise in trauma recovery are invaluable. She often says her "heart is divided in two between Jewish and Ukrainian people," reflecting the depth of her commitment. As both Director and Psychologist, Olga ensures our programs deliver effective, culturally sensitive support to children in crisis zones.

DIRECTOR, OFFICER OF ARMED FORCES OF UKRAINE

Sergei Zviagin embodies the spirit of service and resilience that drives Cross Bridges' mission. Joining the Armed Forces of Ukraine in 2014, Sergei has been on the front lines of defending his nation since the first days of the Russian invasion. His valor in combat led to him being wounded in action in 2022, for which he was awarded the prestigious Medal of Bohdan Khmelnytsky III by presidential order.

Now, Sergei channels his extensive military experience into shaping the next generation of leaders. As an instructor at the Youth Military Academy named after Krut's Heroes, he imparts not just tactical knowledge, but also the ethics and values crucial for future officers. This academy provides a unique opportunity for orphaned and refugee children, as well as those whose parents are on active military duty, to receive structured education and support.

Sergei's vision extends beyond Ukraine's borders. He has initiated a program to strengthen US-Ukraine relations by exposing young Ukrainian students to American military traditions, language, and culture. This initiative reflects Cross Bridges' commitment to building international understanding and support for children affected by conflict.

Through his role at Cross Bridges, Sergei continues to serve his country by ensuring that the most vulnerable young people - those directly impacted by war - have the opportunity to grow, learn, and become future leaders.

CO-FOUNDER, DIRECTOR LOGISTICS

Sebastian has been workin tirelessly since the first days of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. He was pivotal in organizing large-scale shipments of humanitarian aid supplies. His expertise of managing multi-million projects span for over two decades. In the past two years Sebastian singlehandedly raised and organized philanthropic efforts responsible for over $500m in medical and humanitarian aid to Ukraine. We are extremely lucky and happy that he has decided to join forces with us on this project.

CEO, CO-FOUNDER CROSS BRIDGES-UKRAINE

Since Feb 28, 2022, Konstantin has been engaged in volunteer activities, providing a wide kind of assistance for the affected regions: vehicles, techniques, wearing, food. In 2023, he co-founded and headed the charitable organization "Cross Bridges-Ukraine", focusing on providing medical humanitarian aid and assistance to children within the Chance4Kids program. Since it’s opening, "Cross Bridges-Ukraine" has provided 16 tons of humanitarian aid worth more than $1 million to more than 50 hospitals, medical facilities, and social assistance centers.

Additionally, Konstantin has been involved in education activities for over 10 years. Currently, he has been teaching, and engages in scientific research activities at LNAA.

DIRECTOR of VOLUNTEERS WITHOUT BORDERS

Alexiy started his volunteering in 2014. Since 2022 he has been a pivotal part in our efforts to bring humanitarian aid to those in need in Ukraine. He has been a front line connection and liaison to the orphanages and foster homes. He is lucky to have an unconditional support of his 5 year old daughter Masha.