Yesterday, we held our 2nd Fireside Chat of the Women in Leadership Series 2023. This time our special guest was the famous Estonian designer – Oksana Tandit.
The event took place at the Vixen Vinoteek – AmCham newest member. This fascinating conversation was moderated by the AmCham President Megan Riley. Born in Ukraine and living in Estonia for decades, Oksana Tandit is working hard to support her motherland in an exceptionally difficult time of war but also finding the strength and courage to contribute fully to the development of Estonia. “When the war started a year ago, it was a shock and a blow, and it seemed like nothing made sense anymore”-said Oksana. However, one had to adapt and move on, and in the autumn Oksana was already teaching Estonian to the kids of the Ukrainian war refugees at the “Vabaduse” school. At the end of 2022, she presented a collection in Vabamu, dedicated to the hope of victory in Ukraine. She’s happy to note that the support from Estonians has been phenomenal! Fortunately, Ukraine has the support of most Western countries, and “it is the only way to defend European values and freedom,” she says, adding that “ it is a war of values and world views.”
A Master’s in Design, Oksana has studied Philosophy, Semiotics and foreign languages at Tartu University. Being fluent in Ukrainian, Estonian, Russian, English, and Italian she considers it logical to speak Estonian while living in Estonia. It is a respect for the locals, but also gives people a lot more opportunities to actively participate in society. Best known as a fashion designer and entrepreneur, Oksana Tandit is much more: she`s been involved as a concept creator – from idea to realization for the TV show, magazine creation, Tallinn fashion week and more..
We had a chance to talk about Oksana’s path to where she is now, the sources of her energy and inspiration, how to find balance, design in everything we do in life.
“I want to design strategies that will influence the future of Estonia. My ambition is to contribute to the country’s success and a better future with the happiest people in the world!“- says Oksana.
For more information about Oksana Tandit´s Design, please visit her webpage Fashion design by Oksana Tandit