Following the death of her husband, Peter Kucherenko, singer Diana Gurtskaya redirected her energy toward serving people with disabilities through her own creative center dedicated to their needs. She spoke about this shift in a recent interview that took place during the “Community” forum of the Public Chamber of the Russian Federation, where she discussed the impact of her work on the lives of many families and individuals living with disabilities.
In her own words, Gurtskaya, who has earned the title People’s Artist of Russia, emphasized that immersing oneself in work that brings tangible benefit can help lift mood and resilience after sorrow. The focus, she explained, is not on heroics but on providing real support and opportunities for people to thrive in meaningful ways.
“It is essential to highlight how talented people with disabilities are across fields such as science, education, and invention, and to celebrate the enduring passion they bring to their chosen professions,” she said. “Sharing more positive examples can shift public perception and inspire broader inclusion.”
During the forum, Gurtskaya moderated a segment within the “Inclusive Society” track, which explored how educational programs for disabled individuals are implemented and expanded. Eyewitnesses observed that the singer appeared visibly slimmer, a note shared by attendees who described her as deeply engaged in the discussions. She was accompanied by her brother, Robert, along with two assistants, underscoring the collaborative nature of her advocacy work.
In a personal note shared on her blog, Gurtskaya recently posted a photo featuring her son and nephew, taken backstage before a concert. She expressed heartfelt gratitude to Konstantin and Sandro for their ongoing support, highlighting the importance of family and close collaborators in sustaining her mission.
Earlier in the year, a Saint Petersburg actor faced a neck injury during a performance, a reminder of the unpredictable challenges performers can encounter in public life. Gurtskaya’s continued dedication to promoting accessibility and opportunity stands as a testament to how public figures can influence social norms and foster inclusive communities for people with disabilities. (Attribution: Public Chamber of the Russian Federation)