The war in Ukraine continues to cast a dark shadow over the lives of its citizens, and the story of 19-year-old Khrystyna Starykova, a Ukrainian Eurovision contestant, underscores the devastating impact of the ongoing conflict. Starykova, who serves as a backup vocalist for the band Ziferblat, recently faced a painful personal loss when her home in Myrnograd was destroyed by Russian shelling. This unfortunate event has not only affected her family but has left a scar on the community she comes from.
Khrystyna Starykova is currently in Switzerland, diligently preparing for her performance in the upcoming Eurovision Song Contest. In an emotional move, she shared images on social media of her damaged apartment building located in the Sviltly neighborhood of Myrnograd. The photos depicted the destruction, with the building enveloped in smoke, shattered windows, and balconies that had collapsed due to the artillery assault. The stirring caption she posted reads, “Home. And I dreamed so much of returning home,” reflecting the deep emotional turmoil and longing for normalcy amidst the chaos of war.
Despite the grim circumstances, Starykova remains hopeful and determined to perform at Eurovision. In her posts, she expressed her gratitude that all her relatives and friends are safe and alive. “It’s for the sake of our country,” she stated, expressing her commitment to showcasing the strength and resilience of the Ukrainian people. Her sentiments embody the spirit of her nation, wishing to highlight their bravery in the face of adversity. “I want to show what a strong people we are,” she further articulated, signaling her drive to remind both her compatriots and the world of their undying spirit.
Starykova’s journey, however, has been riddled with misfortune. In an interview with the Ukrainian broadcaster Suspilne, she revealed that she had sensed the possibility of losing her home. Recapping previous family tragedies, she noted how her grandmother lost her home months prior, followed by her aunt losing her roof. “Maybe I could be the next one, and unfortunately, it happened. It’s very terrible news. I had really hoped to go back,” she recalled. The poignant losses endure not only in her personal experience but also within the broader context of a war that has shattered countless lives across Ukraine.
Her latest Instagram posts continue to document the aftermath of the shelling in Myrnograd, sharing images of streets that were once filled with life. “I always went home from vocal lessons this way,” she remarked, emphasizing the emotional weight of what her neighborhood once represented to her. These reflections embody a bittersweet nostalgia, a longing for the moments that were taken away by the relentless conflict.
On a brighter note, Starykova and her band Ziferblat are set to perform their song “Bird of Pray,” a poignant anthem that encapsulates the experiences of Ukrainians who have faced separation from their loved ones due to the ongoing war with Russia. In interviews, lead vocalist Valentyn Leshchynskyi explained that the song narrates the struggles and tragedies endured over the last several years, emphasizing that the message carries ten years worth of sentiment and hardship.
Being part of this act is particularly significant for Starykova, fondly dubbed “bird girl” for her ability to hit the song’s high notes. Her experience, which includes competing in the Ukrainian version of the talent show “The Voice” and performing a well-received cover of Duncan Lawrence’s Eurovision winner “Arcade,” speaks volumes about her potential.
Born in Donetsk and raised in Myrnograd, Starykova witnessed the horrific impacts of the conflict early in her life. She vividly recounted scenes of intense shelling that lit the sky and spurred her family into hiding. Despite the personal battles she has faced, she remains dedicated to her craft and to her message of hope, stating, “Despite what happened to me, I want to portray our song in a good way.” Her resolute determination to convey a message of resilience resonates beyond her music; it serves as a testament to the unwavering spirit of Ukraine amidst distressing times.
In conclusion, Khrystyna Starykova’s story is not just about loss, but also about hope and strength—a narrative that encapsulates the broader experiences of a nation caught in the throes of war. As she takes the stage at Eurovision, her performance will symbolize not only her personal journey but also the collective struggle of the Ukrainian people, reminding the world of their enduring spirit in the face of adversity.