As part of its The New Yorker Documentary project, the American magazine The New Yorker has presented a short documentary called “Following Valeriia” The film tells the story of Ukrainian TikTok influencer Valeria Shashenok, who became a refugee during the war in Ukraine and a recognized social media star.
The documentary filmmaker Nicola Fagg discovered a video by 20-year-old Valeria, a fashion photographer from Chernihiv, which struck her as “charming and amazing.” Valeria started filming in her basement, hiding from bombing during the Russian attack on her city. Her sarcastic videos went viral and inspired Ukrainians during the initial war, receiving over 20 million views.
After a week, Valeria decided to leave Ukraine, joining the millions of refugees from the war. Fegg first met her in Warsaw, where she got off the train tired and dizzy but determined to follow up on social media.
The film also tells the story of Valeria’s stay abroad, where her cousin died. She faced hate over her tragedy but continued her social media activities.
The film shows how Valeria visits the European Parliament, meets with high-ranking officials, receives humanitarian aid, and joins pro-Ukrainian events, including a rally on the square.
