SISTERS

We were born and raised in Kharkiv, Ukraine. It was happy childhood for both of us. We grew up surrounded by the love and care of our wonderful parents, the most loving grandparents in the world, and our beloved uncle. We are not only sisters and siblings but also one soul, one spirit, one vibe. We love each other to the moon and back, and again to the moon:)))))

Maryna got her degree in accounting, and when she immigrated to Canada a long time ago worked as a professional accountant. She knows her stuff, and she takes care of it the way a mother takes care of a baby.

I have been so passionate about photography since I was a kid. That time I had a simple camera called Soap dish. I practiced by taking pictures of my Doberman and dressing him up in different outfits. He was obedient, sat, and waited for this horror to end.

I have completed two rounds of higher education. I graduated from Ukrainian University, received a Bachelor of Musical Education, and became a teacher of music and choreography, as my parents dreamed. I did not want to work as a music teacher. It was very monotonous for me. I decided to finish a photography course. Since that time, nothing else captivates me that much. I rented a space and started working as a Photographer. Gradually I succeeded in my business and built trust and respect from my clients. They became my friends. I opened my own beautiful «Julia» photo studio in the very heart of the city.

I have done many successful commercial projects:

I photographed a lot of magazine covers:

I have created many different portfolios:

And the war started...

Due to the Russian invasion, I lost huge part of my life. My work, relatives, and friends are meaningful to me. Ukrainians are suffering and distressing with uncertainty about whether they be alive in the next minute. I try not to lose contact with them and help them as much as I can. The fate of my studio is unknown today because it is located in the city, which is bombed every day.


I decided to immigrate to Canada. The Self-employed Persons Program considered that I could make a significant contribution to the cultural life of Canada. It allowed me to immigrate to Canada permanently as I have relevant experience in cultural activities at a world-class level. I came to Canada when the war started. I got my post-baccalaureate diploma in Business Management from Capilano University.

Finally, Maryna and I reunited in Vancouver and decided to start our business here. We opened our ZEAL& Photo Studio.

We love each other. We love people. We love what we do. And this gives us hope that everything will be just great.

Let's be friends!

Sincerely yours,
Maryna and Yuliya