Alena Pryadko is a 32-year-old poet who recently reclaimed her birth name after being adopted from Russia 29 years ago. The decision marks a return to her roots and a deeper understanding of who she is. She began writing poetry within the past year (2025) and quickly found that it gives her a way to express emotions, she has struggled to convey in the past. Poetry has become the clearest and most honest way for her to say what she feels.

 

Alena is a former early childhood educator. She stepped away from the classroom after experiencing burnout and a lack of support. Now, she focuses on writing and hopes to connect with others who value sincerity, reflection, and meaningful conversation through poetry.

 

Alena has been working on reclaiming her roots through therapy, reflection, journaling, and now poetry. She has started a podcast series called “Honoring My Kokoshnik” which can be found on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Also, on YouTube & TikTok under the same name. 

 

Alena is currently working on her first publication, a childrens book on adoption and where it can lead the adoptee in life. She aims to portray vivid imagery through her personal journeys and the beauty she has captured through her love of photography. 

Entitled “Where My Shoes Took Me”, will be out by the summer of 2026 (fingers crossed).