Nataliya Resh is a prominent philanthropist who has helped many people accomplish their dreams. To make the world a better place, her efforts have always followed her ideals of engaging global awareness, promoting arts, and environmental protection. Founder & the President of The Open Culture Foundation, a co-partner of the Better World Foundation, entrepreneur, and a successful lawyer, Nataliya Resh met with Chic Icon team for an interview to get to know what drives her to keep fighting for a better world.
What inspired the creation of The Open Culture Foundation?
As working as a lawyer, I turned to art as a way to release stress and negative energy. Through this process, I discovered the power of art therapy. Along the way, I met many people in the arts community, which eventually led to my involvement in a remarkable nonprofit project. Rather than use my own name for the project, I decided to establish a charitable institution and thus founded The Open Culture Foundation in 2014. Our mission is to bring together people who share similar outlooks on life and philosophies about relating to oneself and others.
The arts have given me so much, and I wanted to find a way to give back. The foundation has supported many artists and organizations, raising awareness of global issues in the process. Art has always been a powerful tool for me, and I believe it can touch others’ hearts and change their perspectives, no matter what form it takes.
At one point in my life, I met people struggling with the devastating effects of environmental pollution, and I was horrified by the statistics. I decided to shift the focus of the foundation to address environmental and sustainability issues through art. This change in direction has allowed me to use my philanthropic efforts to make a difference in the world.
Are there any other causes that Nataliya Resh supports?
The Open Culture Foundation is continually expanding, enabling us to reach out to more individuals. Throughout my philanthropic journey, I have developed an awareness of global issues. Scientific data and evidence have brought to light the detrimental outcomes of our generation’s decisions. One day, while pondering about the future of generations to come, I had a vivid mental image of my grandchildren fighting for basic necessities such as air, food, and water, which we take for granted now. The thought pained me, and I realized that they might not experience the beauty of nature the way we do today. In the coming years, fresh water, oxygen, and food may become more valuable than money. As a result, we must respect our planet, which is extremely generous to us, providing us with everything we need to survive.
We must rescue ourselves as a generation, and the best way to do this is to increase awareness and help people understand how their actions harm and pollute the environment.
Can you share any unforgettable moments during your philanthropic journey?
My philanthropic journey has been filled with memorable moments! I have had the opportunity to meet incredible people with similar goals.
One of these unforgettable moments was at the 75th Cannes Film Festival last year. It was a delightful occasion, and Sharon Stone, a Hollywood superstar, chaired the live auction, allowing us to reach out to even more people. This occurred because we share the same vision and have worked together for a common goal. Meeting Sharon was a pleasure since she is a globally respected figure with a big heart, energy, and charisma.
As a sign of her support for our cause, she contacted the Dolce and Gabbana brand, which created limited-edition accessories for auction.
Do you think young Nataliya Resh would have ever imagined her impact on society?
When I was a child, I never imagined that I would manage a foundation and provide support to people while also preserving the environment. As I grew older, I began to explore my personal values. Collaboration has always been at the forefront of my beliefs. I never saw the point of competing against each other needlessly since all of humanity is essentially interconnected. So why not work together towards a shared purpose? When everyone contributes with an attitude of collaboration, positive change is possible. It is essential for me to surround myself with people who share the same philosophy as me and to collaborate and work with them. These are the people who influence the actions of the foundation and invest their time and energy in providing better opportunities for future generations and a better life.
Are there any other personal projects you see in the future?
After leaving the practice of law, I am now eager to immerse myself in a creative business endeavor. My background in fashion and design has inspired me to create something that is both sustainable and supportive of women. Working hard on my own startup, I have crafted a mission that alleviates female challenges worldwide with a product that embodies my philosophy and idea of empowering women. I am excited to launch this project when it is ready.
Read more interviews HERE
