2024 Contribution to Humanity Award Recipient
Olga Shmaidenko
BSc '05, Honours Science and Business, Biochemistry
Olga Shmaidenko, a 2005 Waterloo graduate with a Science & Business degree, has worn many hats throughout her career. After spending a decade in HIV vaccine research in New York, she traded the city life for full-time travel, documenting stories of inspiring women across more than 50 countries. Her website, WOWwoman.com, showcases these women’s stories, bringing them positive exposure, support and funding.
A proud Ukrainian, Olga was deeply affected by the Russian invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022. This event spurred her into action, leading her to volunteer on the Polish border amid the refugee crisis, fundraise for Ukrainian causes, assist Ukrainian media with English translations, and collaborate with on-the-ground nonprofits. She has since focused on highlighting the resilience of Ukrainian women who have taken on extraordinary roles amid the conflict—fighters, volunteers, paramedics, and everyday women showing immense courage. This project is called Inside Ukraine.
For Olga, this work represents her life’s purpose. With a toddler and husband by her side, Olga continues to amplify the voices of women worldwide, with a special focus on Ukrainians who continue to persevere in the face of continuous Russian attacks.