Meet our Activist of the Month: Halyna Kozlovska
With a master’s degree in Applied Mathematics and strong skills in full-stack development, our ACTivist of the month, Halyna Kozlovska, works with us as a UX/UI Developer. Her deep-rooted passion for technology, paired with her Ukrainian background, fuels her dedication to innovate for good. She has been an integral part of many of SpringACT’s projects – including our upcoming app Comeback Catz! Let’s get to know more about her.
1. What’s been the most memorable project you’ve been a part of during your time with SpringACT?
One of the most memorable projects for me was Comeback CatZ, which I was fortunate enough to work on from the very start!
Building it up from scratch during a Hackathon, I got the chance to collaborate with a really great team and had the opportunity to learn some new technologies. It allowed me to apply the backend coding knowledge I’d had from previous projects and helped me grow as a developer by reinforcing the importance of adaptability and teamwork in all that I do.
2. Was there anything that surprised you about working in activism when you first started?
At the beginning of my work in activism, I was mostly surprised by how frequently social injustice occurs in our daily lives and across the world. Additionally, given that my country, Ukraine, is at war, I was deeply shocked by the extent of human cruelty and the ways injustice can happen. This experience really made me reflect on how I can contribute to making a difference and improving the situation in any way I can.
3. Given your work in the tech sphere, what do you think the future of social justice and tech will be? Do you think there will be much crossover?
I believe technology and social justice will become even more connected in the future! Tech is vital to help raise awareness of key issues, ensure transparency, and protect human rights.
I believe tools like AI and blockchain can be used for good to help fight misinformation and improve access to justice. However, I think when we talk about technology and the future it’s important to be mindful about how they can be used ethically and inclusively, this is always something we need to consider.
4. Continuing the theme of looking to the future, with 2025 now well underway, what are some of your New Year’s resolutions and how do you think they‘ll impact your work?
One of my main resolutions for 2025 is to keep learning and improving my skills, especially in new technologies – there’s always more to learn! I also want to better organise my time to balance work, learning, and personal life.
At the same time, I would also like to use my skills to help with social issues and support those affected by injustice and war, just as my activism work allows me to do now. Whether through tech solutions, raising awareness, or direct help, I want to contribute to positive change.
5. How do you keep motivated and inspired?
I stay motivated by the people around me and my nation of Ukraine. Their strength inspires me.
Even in difficult times, I stay positive and believe that challenges make us stronger. One quote that helps me is:
“When life gives you lemons, make lemonade”
by Elbert Hubbard. It reminds me that tough times can lead to growth and new opportunities.
6. Looking back, what’s one defining moment in your life that’s led you to where you are today? Is there anything you’d have wanted to change or have done differently?
One defining moment in my life was when I decided to start a career in tech. I realised my passion and love for development and problem-solving which then influenced my decision to study Applied Mathematics and laid the foundation for my whole career!
The only thing I regret is that I didn’t start working as a software engineer right after completing my studies. I returned to it only after many years, but I believe everything happens for a reason, and each step I took has brought me to where I am today.
– Written by Natalie Brabben for Spring ACT
