Alina Nikulishyna and Sofiia Vystoropska, Corinthia London, on CODE’s 30 under 30

As part of this year’s 30 under 30 list, we have awarded three entrants a special accolade. The third is the ‘Inspirational Story Award’, given for overcoming immense personal difficulties to build a successful career in a new environment. Here we speak to Alina Nikulishyna, 28, and Sofiia Vystoropska, 28, hostess and waitress respectively at The Crystal Moon Lounge, Corinthia London.

Alina Nikulishyna 

What does this award mean to you?  

For me, it means the recognition of my work. Perhaps my story will inspire someone and show there is a way out of any situation and that it is never too late to start working in a new area.

How do you feel about hospitality in the UK and your part in making it so rewarding?  

The difference of hospitality in the UK and Ukraine is only really in the verbal communication. Here, British traditions add charm to ordinary things, and to service in general.

Since I am new to the industry, I have decided to follow the literal terms of hospitality and act in the way I would when hosting guests at home. But I adhere to the standards of five-star service, welcoming and understanding guests with genuine engagement and kindness.

What do you hope to achieve in the future?  

We never know what’s waiting for us around the corner – the future is very unpredictable. I am only sure that my knowledge and skills will lead me in the right direction.

Why is young talent so important?  

The younger generation is fresh and innovative. We live in a rapidly changing world, with a variety of different trends. The younger generation has a quick reaction to all these changes and fluctuations, and analyses, makes decisions and acts faster.

The circumstances around your leaving Ukraine were heart-breaking. How has the industry and the community helped to provide stability at this time?

I can say that to some extent I have found stability in the form of employment and in the goodwill of colleagues. These factors helped me move on.

What do you hope that highlighting these stories will mean for others looking at the programs in place in support of those affected?

We hope people come to understand the situation in Ukraine, because the support of the civilized world is the only hope for us: the hope that we can return to our lives. We want to continue to live, at home and abroad, not just exist. 

Sofiia Vystoropska

What does this award mean to you?  

First of all, I would like to thank you for this award. It is unexpected since I just took this job. For me, this nomination means a lot – I want to inspire people like me, who have lost everything. 

Before the war, I lived in Sumy, Ukraine, and I had two jobs, a house, friends, I practiced yoga, I took on various volunteering positions and had a very rich and happy life. But my strong spirit helped me go through all the challenges in moving away, and I acquired a visa, undertook interviews, and here I am.  

I want to send a message to others to say that everything is possible. Sometimes you need to take a couple of steps back in order to jump even further. Before the war I worked in the events field (concerts, tours, theaters, festivals), and now I work at the Corinthia in two of its restaurants. In each area there are ways to develop and improve. 

How do you feel about hospitality in the UK and your part in making it so rewarding?  

During my student years, I worked in Ukrainian and Czech hospitality. In Ukraine, there is a very high level of service in general, so in the UK I don’t find any special differences. I chose this area because it is close to events – working with people and bringing them pleasure. Every day you meet interesting personalities. It’s all about communication, gaining knowledge from individuals, making new acquaintances and feeling positive vibrations – guests come to the hotel to relax.

What do you hope to achieve in the future?  

This year taught me not to plan my life for years in advance, so I try to live for today. The goal is simply to live every day with dignity and happiness. Use your best qualities, gain new knowledge and improve your life. One day I want to open my own events agency. 

Why is young talent so important?  

Every person has their own talent. The main thing here is to figure out what it is and to develop it. A person can be talented and not recognise their qualities. Young people are the future, the engine of progress. That is why it is so important to find, develop and support those who need help. Talented people have it in them to lead by example, and others follow. 

Read the full list