By: Alva Ree

“I Didn’t Just Survive the Crisis — I Built a New Me”

The story of Iryna Kovaleva: how inner light can become a source of outward success

Iryna Kovaleva is a finalist in the Ms World America pageant, a women’s coach, motivational speaker, psychologist, and mother. But behind these titles is not just a successful woman—there is the energy of transformation, the kind of energy she shares with others, hoping to inspire change.

When you see Iryna today — confident, radiant, and full of style — it’s easy to overlook the many internal and external steps that led her here. However, that journey has become one of her greatest resources.

— “I wasn’t born into a perfect life, but I learned to shape it over time — day by day, choice by choice,” she reflects.

Beauty Begins Within

Iryna began her career as a permanent makeup artist. At first, women came to her for eyebrows but stayed for her ability to listen, feel, and see beyond the surface. She soon recognized that her true calling wasn’t merely about aesthetics—it was about revealing deeper layers of self-worth and potential.

She immersed herself in psychology, coaching, and mentoring—not only to assist others but also to grow personally. Everything she shares with women today is grounded in her own experiences.

— “I don’t speak from a place of theory. I share from what I’ve lived through. My voice comes from real life, not from an idealized version,” she explains.

Ms World America as a Statement, Not a Destination

Competing in Ms World America wasn’t about achieving a specific goal — it was about making a statement.

Iryna stepped onto that stage to inspire, to show that beauty isn’t about fitting into a predefined mold—it’s about creating harmony between your inner world and outer expression. Her journey serves as an example that change doesn’t mean losing oneself — instead, it can help uncover more of who we truly are. She also highlights that self-love and self-worth are not limited by age.

She didn’t join with the sole aim of winning a crown. She entered to represent a broader mission.

— “When a woman embraces her uniqueness, she moves beyond competition. She shines. And by doing so, she encourages others to do the same,” she shares.

From Competition to Community

Iryna is cultivating a new kind of women’s circle—one that’s grounded in support, honesty, and mutual growth. In her view, women are not rivals but allies.

She believes real strength is found in connection—in spaces where women can cry, laugh, express themselves, and rise together, where no one has to pretend—because simply being seen as you are is enough.

— “True beauty emerges when you see another woman and your first instinct is to support her, not compare yourself to her,” she suggests.

A Mission to Spark Transformation

Iryna refers to herself as a guide. She doesn’t provide answers—she helps women discover their own. Her aim is to show that life doesn’t end in moments of crisis—it can often be a starting point for change. She believes that you can reshape your country, career, and story—and still come home to the essence of who you are.

She leads by example: living with intention, parenting with heart, working with purpose, and prioritizing authenticity over perfection.

Her Instagram is not just a highlight reel—it’s a journal of real life, full of tears, triumphs, and small victories. And in that rawness lies her strength.

What Does a Woman Who Inspires Others Dream About?

Iryna dreams of family, warmth, big tables filled with laughter, children, and traditions—a home where peace can thrive. But it’s not just about launching projects; she wants to create a legacy. Irina believes that true feminine happiness isn’t about sacrifice—it’s about choice—the choice to be true to oneself.

She hopes to leave a meaningful impact—not through perfection, but through love, contribution, sincerity, and a lasting influence. Her energy is one of creation and positive change.

Her story is a reminder to every woman:

You can start anew.

You can return to your true self.

You can shine, and in doing so, others may be inspired by your light.