My name is Anna, and I was born and raised in Ukraine,
From an early age, I was inspired by my dad's stories of exploration and adventure. In the
1980s, he traveled the world by sea, navigating routes that stretched from
Cuba to Singapore.
So far, I've explored almost
30 countries, each one adding its own unique chapter to my story. From the
breathtaking landscapes of Iceland to the ancient historical sites in Georgia, and the
coastal beauty of Albania, every destination has offered me a fresh perspective and
unforgettable experiences.
However, the past few years have
brought challenges that I never expected. Spending time in lockdown during the global
pandemic, and later facing the challenges of living in a war-torn country, has profoundly
impacted my perspective on life and travel. These experiences made me realize how important it is to seize every opportunity
to connect with others and expand our horizons.
Alongside my brother Alex, I co-founded
Academic Odyssey, a venture close to both of our hearts. Alex serves as a
non-executive co-founder, and while he provides invaluable guidance and support, I oversee
the daily operations as the CEO and President. Together, we built Academic Odyssey on a
shared vision: to offer transformative experiences that go beyond the typical tourist
paths. Our mission is to help students and travelers form deep, lasting connections
with the places they visit and the people they meet along the way.
At Academic
Odyssey, we believe that travel should be more than a checklist of destinations. It's
about immersing oneself in local life, embracing the unfamiliar, and building friendships
that span cultures and continents.
I
hope you'll join us on this journey. Together, we can explore the world in ways
that are meaningful, impactful, and unforgettable. With each journey, we not only expand
our understanding but also bring people closer together, creating a community of travelers
who see the world not just as a map of places, but as a collection of shared experiences and friendships.