In recent years, the spirit of unity among Ukrainians worldwide has grown stronger, with many people seeking to make a significant impact through various initiatives. One such individual is Denys Kanel, whose efforts have resonated profoundly within the global Ukrainian community. Born in Crimea, Denys Kanel left his homeland in 2013, and for the past 11 years, he has resided in the United States. He has built a community known as Ukrainian.US, which now boasts over 290,000 members across 39 cities in the USA, Canada, and other countries. This project aims to promote Ukrainian businesses abroad, provide essential informational support, and preserve cultural traditions through major social media platforms and offline business events. Denys Kanel shared with Forbes BrandVoice the business opportunities of the project, its primary features, and its contribution to the Ukrainian business environment in the USA.
About Denys Kanel
Denys Kanel, a Ukrainian-born entrepreneur now based in New York City, the founder and CEO of Geometria, an innovative media Digital Out-of-Home company. Denys has spearheaded the deployment of over 4,000 digital screens in high-traffic urban areas and operates LED trucks and billboards across major markets including New York, Chicago, Miami, Philadelphia, and New Jersey. Geometriaʼs client portfolio boasts renowned brands such as Disney, Audi, Google, Coca-Cola, Ford, Samsung, Airbnb, LG, L’Oreal, and BMW.
Denys founded G-Gallery in Soho, New York, in 2022, dedicated to showcasing modern art from a diverse array of artists. The gallery is not only a hub for contemporary art but also a platform for charitable causes, with a particular focus on supporting Ukraine. Among his most significant projects is Ukrainian.US, a community initiative that connects over 290,000 Ukrainians across 39 cities in the USA, Canada, and other countries.
Denys Kanel in social networks:
From the idea to implementation
What were your first steps in the project’s creation? Who helped you?
I organized my first Ukrainian event in the USA nearly eight years ago, bringing together 600 people. It has now grown into the largest Ukrainian community in the country, encompassing nearly 290,000 members. Driven by a deep understanding of the challenges faced by immigrants, I have dedicated myself to helping newcomers navigate their new lives in the USA. My efforts focus on providing essential information and support, and understanding the unique needs of Ukrainians during difficult times. Our success is rooted in a passionate team of more than 30 people, located in the USA and Ukraine. Together, we continue to create opportunities for growth and connection, ensuring that Ukrainians in the USA have the resources and support they need to thrive.
How much money did you invest? Do you plan to return it?
At the heart of Ukrainian.US’s success lies a robust synergy between media and advertising, my primary business ventures that provide crucial informational and media support. Each project demands significant investment, and I am committed to pouring substantial financial resources into these endeavors.
The most invaluable investment is not monetary; it is the dedication of time – both mine and that of my highly skilled team. Our involvement is comprehensive, from the initial planning stages to the execution and future development of each project. While financial investments are essential, the true measure of our commitment is reflected in the time and effort we devote to Ukrainian. US. This holistic approach is designed to sustain our initiatives and foster a thriving, resilient community. The return on investment transcends financial metrics, emphasizing the growth and empowerment of the Ukrainian community in the USA.
Our investments – both monetary and temporal – are strategic moves toward building a stronger, more connected, and prosperous future for Ukrainians in America.
Denys Kanel, the founder and CEO of Geometria, founder of G-Gallery and Ukrainian.US. Photos by Petro Onysko
Your main focus is providing information support in different ways. What are they?
Firstly, Ukrainian.US offers a robust online platform filled with vital information for immigrants, including housing, jobs, and services. The website also provides access to Ukrainian radio stations and features world news. The website has attracted over 200,000 visitors, becoming a crucial portal for informational, educational, and cultural support. Secondly, Ukrainian.US leverages its social networks to create a supportive community where people can ask questions and receive answers from individuals who have successfully navigated the immigration process. This peer-to-peer interaction is invaluable for people seeking practical advice. Thirdly, the Ukrainian.US team actively organizes a variety of courses, seminars, and charity events. These gatherings are particularly beneficial for those looking to build or develop their businesses in the USA and Canada. The Ukrainian Business Forum stands out as a significant highlight, where successful entrepreneurs share their experiences and solutions, fostering an environment of learning and growth. Ukrainian.US continues to empower and support the Ukrainian diaspora, facilitating a smoother transition and integration for immigrants while promoting business and cultural exchanges.
Opened opportunities
What is the main concept of the Ukrainian Business Forum?
The Ukrainian Business Forum, a premier platform for networking and forging groundbreaking business partnerships brings together top speakers, mentors, and business coaches from the American, Canadian, and European markets, all with Ukrainian roots, the forum is a powerhouse for sharing invaluable experiences, innovative ideas, and strategic connections that foster a collaborative partnership environment.
The Ukrainian Business Forum comprises successful Ukrainian businesses ready to conquer the US market and expand their global footprint. As the forum evolves, the demand for educational initiatives has surged, reflecting the eagerness of Ukrainian entrepreneurs to launch and scale their ventures worldwide. Through conferences across various business sectors, the forum unites professionals, sparking new partnerships and opportunities.
The UBF is more than a business growth catalyst; it strengthens the global presence of Ukrainian enterprises, creating a vibrant and interconnected business community that thrives on innovation and collaboration.
How much do businessmen need to pay to be part of the Ukrainian Business Forum?
I established the Ukrainian Business Forum, to attract many businessmen and entrepreneurs with existing Ukrainian roots, who are eager to share their experiences, make donations, and support Ukraine. Participation in the forum is strictly by invitation only, with no fees required. Eligible members must be founders of officially registered businesses that have been operating for more than two years and have an annual turnover of at least $300,000. Additionally, they must uphold the forumʼs core values of trust and professionalism, openness, tolerance, social responsibility, cooperation, and innovation.
Why is it beneficial to participate in the project? What are its advantages?
A platform that expands contacts and unlocks new opportunities for business development through exclusive meetings with entrepreneurs from around the world. These events attract experts across various industries, including logistics and transportation, the beauty industry, marketing, and the restaurant and hospitality sectors. Participants gain insights into launching franchises for diverse businesses in the USA and benefit from comprehensive promotional support with Geometriaʼs advertising networks. A testament to the impact of these gatherings, the largest donation collected during a charity auction at the Logistics & Transportation event in New York in 2023 totaled an impressive $73,000.
Additionally, through strategic networking, one businessman secured $20 million in financing for a trailer production facility. I ensure that each event is a ground for learning, networking, and substantial business growth, driving innovation and collaboration across the global business community.
What aspect of the project are you particularly proud of?
I am proud that this project unites Ukrainians in the USA, regardless of how long they have been living here. Ukrainians are intelligent people with great hearts who deserve recognition and the opportunity to achieve successful lives abroad. We organize over 20 themed cultural events annually, drawing more than 10,000 visitors, to support traditions and engage with Ukrainian talents. These events help attendees maintain their connection to their homeland and serve as platforms for performances by talented artists and musicians, as well as showcasing Ukrainian businesses. By promoting national traditions and motivating promising companies, we foster further development and community growth.
Denys Kanel, a Ukrainian-born entrepreneur
Searching new projects
You are also the owner of the TOP USA project. What is this event about?
In admiration of Ukrainian talent and entrepreneurship, the TOP USA Awards emerged as a prestigious accolade, recognizing the unparalleled achievements of Ukrainians in various fields across the United States. This award, conceived by the Ukrainian community, is dedicated to celebrating those who have made significant contributions and built thriving enterprises on American soil. During the award ceremony, each of the TOP 100 recipients receives a personalized trophy award symbolizing their exceptional accomplishments and the unique book dedicated to the top 100 individuals in their respective fields, with their name proudly standing among distinguished laureates. This ceremony aims to highlight numerous talented Ukrainians who have built successful companies and inspire others to reach new heights of achievement. Among the most prominent entrepreneurs in 2023 were Oleksandr and Tanya Popovich, co-founders of Vista Trans Holding Inc., Sergey «CJ» Karman, founder and CEO of Ezlogz and EzTechTonic, and others.
What is the role of the Ukrainian.US in the Burning Man camp?
Thanks to the efforts of the Ukrainian.US team, the Ukrainian camp at the annual cultural festival Burning Man, held in the Black Rock Desert, Nevada, is becoming a reality. In 2024, we are set to introduce MISTO, a unique Ukrainian camp that marks a significant step in promoting Ukrainian culture on an international stage, offering a distinctive platform for talented Ukrainians to showcase their skills. Among the featured talents is an artist Ola Rondiak, who will present her captivating art installation titled ʼMotankas.ʼ Complementing this artistic showcase, the campʼs menu will be crafted by renowned Ukrainian chef Yevhen Klopotenko and brought to life at Burning Man by chef Dima Martseniuk. This endeavor highlights the vibrant cultural heritage of Ukraine and fosters a global appreciation for its artistic and culinary excellence. By integrating traditional and contemporary Ukrainian elements, MISTO promises to be a standout feature at Burning Man, celebrating the rich cultural tapestry of Ukraine on an international stage.
What are your strategic plans for the project? How do you plan to develop it?
We are currently in negotiations with several major American companies regarding potential mergers aimed at expanding our reach and enhancing our coverage. Our project is experiencing robust organic growth and is becoming increasingly well-known among Ukrainians. One of our primary goals is to elevate the awareness of Ukrainian.US in Ukraine and attract top talent to further develop the Ukrainian Business Forum and other educational projects. We are always open to new collaborations and partnerships. Reach us at [email protected].
This platform is crucial for fostering collaborations between Ukrainian business owners and international markets.
This strategic approach not only positions Ukrainian.US as a key player in the international business arena but also underscores our commitment to fostering a vibrant ecosystem for Ukrainian entrepreneurs looking to expand their horizons.
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