Valeria Kovtun

2025-2026 Columbia University Scholar

Headshot of Valeria Kovtun, 2025-2026 Columbia University Scholar

Ukraine

Strategic Partnerships Lead, OpenMinds; Founder and Former Head, Filter

Leading cross-sector efforts to counter disinformation and strengthen societal resilience against authoritarian influences

Valeria Kovtun leads strategic partnerships at OpenMinds, working to strengthen societal resilience against authoritarian influence. She coordinates cross-sectoral efforts across 30 governments and organizations worldwide, shaping effective responses in complex information environments and conducting campaigns to counter disinformation. As a journalist, policymaker, and expert in cognitive warfare, Valeria also founded and led Filter, Ukraine's first governmental media literacy program, which has been recognized for coordinating policy efforts to promote media literacy nationwide. She also led an AI-driven project with over 100 media partners that used alerts to identify disinformation before it was widespread. Through the Scholars program, Valeria aims to refine her approach to strengthen societal resilience against authoritarian influences, using the arts as a vehicle for fostering social cohesion and a deeper understanding of disinformation tactics.

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The Obama Foundation Scholars program gives rising leaders from around the world who are already making a difference in their communities the opportunity to take their work to the next level.

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