Ukrainian professionals continue to build successful careers around the world, bringing their expertise and creativity to leading international industries. One example is Ukrainian jewelry designer, jeweler, and gemologist Valentyna Zhytnyk, who today lives in Manhattan, New York, and works at the legendary jewelry house Harry Winston. Often referred to as the “King of Diamonds,” Harry Winston is one of the world’s most respected names in high jewelry.
Before pursuing a career in the jewelry industry, Valentyna Zhytnyk gained international recognition as a Ukrainian supermodel and public figure. She represented Ukraine at Miss Earth 2010 in Vietnam as Miss Ukraine and built an international career across Europe, Asia, and the United States. Beyond the fashion industry, Valentyna served as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador in Vietnam, Kenya, and Djibouti and later represented Ukraine’s artistic community at the United Nations in New York as part of a Ukrainian delegation.
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Born in Kharkiv, she developed an early passion for art and design while studying at the Kharkiv Lyceum of Arts. Her fascination with gemstones later led her to the State Gemological Centre of Ukraine under the Ministry of Finance of Ukraine before continuing her education at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in the United States.
After gaining experience in the luxury jewelry industry, including a role at Tiffany & Co., she joined Harry Winston’s New York headquarters, where she contributes to jewelry production and quality assurance. For jewelry professionals worldwide, a position at Harry Winston is widely regarded as a significant professional achievement and one of the industry’s most respected career milestones.
Today, Valentyna Zhytnyk’s professional journey reflects the growing recognition of Ukrainian talent worldwide. From representing Ukraine internationally and serving as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador to building a career in the world’s leading luxury jewelry houses, Valentyna Zhytnyk’s achievements demonstrate how Ukrainian education, creativity, cultural engagement, and professional dedication continue to earn recognition on the global stage.
Linkedin:https://www.linkedin.com/in/valentyna-zhytnyk-54895b197
