Ukraine’s First Lady Olena Zelenska has captured the world’s attention

She never wanted her husband to run for President of Ukraine, but now Olena Zelenska is leading her country through war.

He may be the actor turned President, but Olena Zelensky at first reluctantly stepped into her role as Ukraine’s first lady.

Volodymyr Zelensky has stood up to his Russian invaders, bringing hope to millions of fearful Ukrainians.

But while the President spoke, his wife stood by his side.

While he addressed his nation and the world through the bleakest moments of Russia’s invasion, Olena Zelensky used her own social media platform to share impassioned messages to her 2.6 million followers.

While the President was once a comedic actor, Olena was a comedy writer and architecture graduate.

The couple used to be classmates at university before romance blossomed while they were working in comedy.

Together the Zelensky’s have two children, born and raised in central Ukraine.

Boasting a Vogue cover and a CV to rival her husband’s, she’s campaigned against domestic violence and used her platform to push for gender equality.

Bold colours, elegant suits and champion-ing small brands, while finding the balance between style and substance.

Now aged 44, the once camera shy screenwriter is a reluctant stateswoman… now in the midst of an international emergency.

President Zelensky has bravely remained in Ukraine despite Russia’s bombardment. He describes himself as Russia’s target number one.

His family went into hiding as Russia’s troops drew closer – but Olena wrote on Instagram:

“I will be calm and confident,” she wrote on Instagram in the hours after the first attacks. “My children are looking at me. I will be next to them. And next to my husband. And with you”.