What does a nation sound like in times of war and healing? In this heartfelt talk, Ukrainian scholar Olga shares how traditional folk songs have long served as tools of unity, diplomacy, and resilience. From early 20th-century tours to performances during the 2022 invasion, these songs carry deep emotional power. Drawing on research and her own experience, Olga shows how music helps communities process trauma - and why listening to Ukraine’s folk songs means truly hearing its soul.Olga is a Professor at the Higher School of Art (Kyiv, Ukraine) and is currently a visiting Professor at Lincoln University. Here, she is studying the practical experience of the “Mobile Art for Peace” project. Using the results of the project and her own research on the history of Ukrainian culture, Olga tries to show the features of Ukrainian folk songs as a unique cultural phenomenon, because Ukrainian folk song is the expression of the history of the Ukrainian nation and an important tool of cultural diplomacy. Now, in the context of Russian armed aggression, Olga’s research shows that Ukrainian folk songs are gaining new meanings. In her research, Olga tries to reveal the therapeutic potential of Ukrainian songs and their capabilities in the process of psychological support, especially for children and youth. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx