Brazilian Director's Journey: Rediscovering Ancestral Roots in Ukraine

A Voyage of Rediscovery

Imagine stepping into a world you've only heard about through stories passed down generations. This was the experience for Brazilian director Guto Pasko, whose journey to Ukraine became a revelation. Born into a family of Ukrainian immigrants, Pasko embarked on a mission to reconnect with his roots, bringing his parents along to a land they had never seen but always felt a part of.

From Tales to Reality: The Kiev Surprise

The Pasko family's adventure took an unexpected turn as they landed in Kiev. From childhood stories narrated by his grandfather, Pasko imagined Ukraine to be a tapestry of quaint villages. Yet, the sprawling metropolis of Kiev, reminiscent of Milan or Paris, was a stark contrast. The city's grandeur was a surprise, shifting Pasko's perspective from myth to modern reality.

"This is not what my grandfather told me, " Pasko remarked, reflecting on his initial disbelief at the sight of a bustling urban landscape.

Villages of Galicia: A Nostalgic Connection

It was not until they traveled to towns like Lviv and Ternopil and explored the villages of Galicia that the stories of old came alive. Here, the director and his family found the Ukraine they had long envisioned. The language and culture resonated, bridging the gap between generations and continents.

Language and Identity: Unexpected Challenges

For Pasko's parents, the journey was filled with firsts, including the challenge of language. Accustomed to speaking Ukrainian in Brazil, they were bewildered upon hearing Russian in Kiev, fearing miscommunication. Yet in the villages of their ancestors, they discovered a shared language that transcended time and distance, bringing comfort and a sense of belonging.

"In Galicia, our Ukrainian was understood, and my parents finally felt at home, " shared Pasko.

The Future of Cultural Journeys

This journey symbolizes more than a personal quest; it reflects a wider narrative of rediscovery and cultural reawakening. As Pasko's film projects continue to unfold, they promise to highlight the rich tapestry of Ukrainian history and its resonance within diaspora communities.

Editor: Yana Davydiuk