Ukrainian actor, model, and artist Volodymyr Pielikh chatted about his career in the entertainment industry, Ukrainian roots, and the digital age. He is now based in Los Angeles, California.
Walt Whitman once said: “Keep your face always toward the sunshine – and shadows will fall behind you.” This quote applies to Volodymyr Pielikh.
What inspires you each day as an actor, artist, and model?
I always envision the end result—the final product: either an art piece I first see in my mind, or a campaign, or a film.
Seeing it as a clear image in my head – inspires, motivates and excites me to apply action. When I achieve it – I move on to the next, and so on.
How does it feel to be a part of the vertical dramas world?
It feels like I’m in the right place at the right time. This opportunity came to me unexpectedly, and I accepted it. It took me much further than I thought it would. A great feeling.
I meet a lot of wonderful people from the industry, constantly learning and improving my skills.
It’s great to be part of it, and at this point I’m starting to have an ideas of creating my own shows I can produce in the future when I’m ready.
How did your Ukrainian roots mold you into who you are today?
I grew up in Ukraine, where we learn a lot about respect, honor, and culture. I’ve been traveling for 15 solid years, visiting over 45 countries, and spending many years living in Asia, Africa, the Americas, as well as other European countries.
Each place I lived in for a long period of time (from six months to a few years) added a new layer to my personality, culture, and perspective on reality. I feel that I can relate to and understand many cultures.
I speak five languages, which allows me to communicate and connect with people on a deeper level.
What do your plans for the future include?
My goal is to appear on the big screen and act in films and shows, playing challenging and complex characters—roles that may not be typical for me.
I also know that through my growing acting career, I can enhance my modeling career, secure better deals with stronger brands, and gain broader recognition for my art.
I love the idea of having a beautiful, unique art gallery where people can come, hang out, have coffee during the day and drinks at night, and attend hosted events. All of this leads to my final humanitarian goal.
Can you tell us about your philanthropic goals?
I have several ideas for how I can help the world: First, building orphanages with impeccable educational and healthcare systems, hiring the best specialists who are eager to work with children, giving them the love, knowledge, and support they need, and creating areas with rescued animals so children can interact with them.
Second, improving villages in Africa by drilling wells for local communities and ensuring access to fresh water.
Third, investing in rescued animal sanctuaries across Africa, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo, which has the largest population of great apes that are endangered due to the country’s social and economic crisis.
Fourth, supporting Ukraine, which will need massive funds and resources to rebuild what has been destroyed by Russia. Many veterans returning from the front lines are disabled and in need of prosthetics.
Millions of soldiers and civilians will suffer from PTSD and will need mental health support. I don’t believe any country in the world is fully prepared for challenges of this scale or has the capacity to treat so many patients thoroughly.
Fifth, saving as many human and animal lives as possible across the globe — being where I am needed most to support and improve life.
Finally, recognition, fame, and resources can help me bring attention to these issues and make real impact.
How does it feel to be a part of the digital age? (Now with streaming, technology and social media being so prevalent)
I’m honored to be a part of this. However, I hope people continue to enjoy the real world and its beauty—be more aware and less distracted.
That’s why I aim for the big screen, where I can focus on quality over quantity, and where I hope future generations will continue going to theaters, even in an age of global digitalization.
What is your advice for young and emerging actors?
Dream big. Always be grateful. Be certain you will succeed—there is a future version of you that already exists and has already succeeded. Make peace with it, know it, and let go of fear and doubt.
Lower the importance you place on what you think you want, because the “price tag” you assign to a goal determines how calm you can be while waiting to achieve it. Know that you already have it—whether now or later, it will come. Let it go.
Don’t overthink it, and don’t be afraid to lose it. Even if it doesn’t come to you, it simply means something else will. Do what is in your power: be consistent. And most importantly, never give up—especially when it feels like you are failing. Be resilient.
When success start coming to you, never forget who you are. Always be kind and respectful to everyone around you, because we are all equal in the end.
Always know your worth, but don’t place yourself above others—maintain balance. Be the light. Help people without expectations, and people will help you. Live true to yourself.
Were there any moments in your career that have helped define you?
Every character you play or channel will leave an imprint on you. I see it this way: when you play someone in power—someone strong and confident—you start carrying that energy with you.
Even when you get home, you may speak and act more like that person. I’m not sure whether it affects personality long-term, but I can say for certain that it has added to my confidence.
I don’t know if it’s because I’m succeeding and moving forward, or because of the imprint of the characters I play. Either way, it feels great.
What does the word success mean to you? (My favorite question)
This is a trick question, so I have two answers. Success can be an illusion if you don’t live in the moment and are always chasing what you believe success to be. It will always stay one step ahead of you.
As life unfolds, you achieve more, but it’s never enough because there are no limits. You keep running after success that is always just beyond reach—and you never truly have it.
If you live in the moment, success is being genuinely happy and fulfilled. Your work brings you joy. You help people and make them happy. You are happy—right here, right now.
Every step, every moment, is success. You understand there is more to achieve, but you are grateful for every small step forward. Each one is a success.
We all define success differently. And it’s important to remember that when you try to copy someone else’s definition, it will never feel like success—because you’re not living as your true self.
What would you like to say to your fans and supporters?
I’m deeply grateful to all of you. Without you, I would never experience my own small success each time a new show airs. I wish you a wonderful year.
Even in the difficult and unpredictable world we live in today, there is always a reason to smile and be grateful
To learn more about Volodymyr Pielikh, follow him on Instagram.
