Meet the Team
The people behind the mission. Educators, leaders, and youth working together to build bridges across borders.
INTRODUCTION
Every connection, every story, every program at KidsKonnectUkraine starts with people who show up with a purpose of change. Our team brings together educators from Ukraine, leaders from the U.S., and youth from across the globe. They share one thing: a belief that when you give youth the tools to connect, they change the world.
INTRODUCTION
Every connection, every story, every program at KidsKonnectUkraine starts with people who show up with a purpose of change. Our team brings together educators from Ukraine, leaders from the U.S., and youth from across the globe. They share one thing: a belief that when you give youth the tools to connect, they change the world.
"KidsKonnectUkraine empowers the next generation to lead with empathy, understanding, and courage."
Kathleen Hessert
Founder & Director
As CEO of Sports Media Challenge, a U.S.-based sports and entertainment marketing consultancy, Kathleen founded KidsKonnectUkraine in 2022 during a visit to Ukraine. Launched under the NGO MoveUkraine, she set out to build a meaningful digital and in-person bridge among Ukrainian, American, and other teens worldwide. Kathleen leads strategy and activation for KKU, engaging American schools, clubs, and individuals to connect with their Ukrainian counterparts. In Ukraine, she works with a team of educators to expand programming, promote participation, and coordinate student-centered activities like Zoom meetups, Slack chats, contests, challenges, and skill-building workshops. By amplifying Ukrainian culture and encouraging global youth engagement in critical world affairs, KKU shapes a new era of cross-cultural understanding and innovative action.
Reach Kathleen at Kathleen@KidsKonnectUkraine.org or on LinkedIn
"Our generation is not waiting for the world to change. We are rebuilding it. With love and hope, the voiceless rise and speak."
Taylor Thigpen
Deputy Director
Taylor is a passionate advocate for youth development, social justice, and international collaboration. As a Global Affairs major at the University of Notre Dame, Taylor brings extensive experience in development. Having served on the National 4-H Board of Trustees, Taylor has always been driven to uplift Gen Z. At KKU, Taylor empowers youth, supports project planning, and builds global partnerships. He brings skills in grant writing and fundraising to help grow KKU’s impact. Taylor has traveled globally for social work, having his work featured by organizations including the U.N., BBC, and other international platforms.
Reach Taylor at Kathleen@KidsKonnectUkraine.org or on LinkedIn
"Teaching is a work of heart. It empowers minds, inspires dreams, and changes lives."
Tetiana Duplei
Lead Ukrainian Director, Kalush Lyceum 2
With nearly 18 years of experience, Tetiana creates a supportive learning environment where every student feels valued and inspired. To her, KidsKonnectUkraine is more than a program. It broadens perspectives, nurtures empathy, and builds solidarity among youth across the globe.
"Educators have the power to shape the future!"
Tetiana Duplei
Ukrainian Director, Kalush Lyceum 2
An experienced English teacher with 18 years in the field, Lesia supports her students through Ukraine’s current challenges. Beyond teaching language skills, she provides guidance, resilience, and hope. As part of KKU, she bridges Ukrainian and American youth, building mutual understanding and empowering students to create a brighter future.
LEADERSHIP
Operations Team
As KidsKonnectUkraine grows, so does the team making it all run. Our operations team keeps programs on track, coordinates across time zones, and ensures every youth participant gets the experience they deserve.
Rebecca Cope
It never ceases to amaze me that Ukrainian students choose to join KKU Zoom calls from their homes in the evenings—not because they have to, but because they genuinely want to connect.
Rebecca works behind the scenes managing the logistics of KidsKonnectUkraine and has had the privilege of witnessing the organization’s steady growth. She continues to be inspired by the perseverance and strength of the Ukrainian students, as well as the openness, empathy, and positive engagement shown by the American students. With a long history of volunteering and supporting programs that help others, Rebecca feels deeply connected to the mission of KidsKonnectUkraine, which holds a special place in her heart.
Rebecca Cope
It never ceases to amaze me that Ukrainian students choose to join KKU Zoom calls from their homes in the evenings—not because they have to, but because they genuinely want to connect.
Rebecca works behind the scenes managing the logistics of KidsKonnectUkraine and has had the privilege of witnessing the organization’s steady growth. She continues to be inspired by the perseverance and strength of the Ukrainian students, as well as the openness, empathy, and positive engagement shown by the American students. With a long history of volunteering and supporting programs that help others, Rebecca feels deeply connected to the mission of KidsKonnectUkraine, which holds a special place in her heart.
Student Ambassadors Preview
Our Student Ambassadors lead discussions, organize events, and recruit new members across the U.S. and Ukraine. They are the heartbeat of KidsKonnectUkraine.
You Don't Have to Be a Student to Make a Difference
Volunteer. Donate. Spread the word. There are many ways to support KidsKonnectUkraine and help keep youth connected across borders.
