Anastasiya Simsek is an award-winning journalist with a background in air cargo, news, medicine, and lifestyle reporting. She began her career in 2016 at top Ukrainian TV networks, including 24 Channel and 1+1 Media. In 2024, Anastasiya joined Air Cargo Week, quickly making her mark in the air cargo industry. She was honoured as the Journalist of the Year at the 2025 Seahorse Freight Association Awards and Technology Journalist of the 2024 Year.
What’s your role at ACW, and what does a typical day look like for you?
I am a News Reporter at Air Cargo Week, and I work on editorial planning and content development. A typical day includes writing and editing articles, coordinating interviews, tracking industry news, writing stories and creating content for social media.
What do you enjoy most about working in the air cargo and logistics industry?
What I enjoy most is working with people. I love meeting industry colleagues, being among the first to learn the latest news, and sharing it with our readers. Even as the industry becomes more digitalised, I really appreciate that it remains people-focused at its core.
What’s a recent project or achievement you’re proud of?
Receiving the Journalist of the Year award at the 2025 Seahorse Freight Association Awards.
READ: ACW Journalists honoured at 2025 Seahorse Awards
How do you stay informed and inspired in your work?
Because we work in news, no two days are the same. The constant flow and variety of new information keep me inspired and engaged.
What skill or quality do you think is essential for success in our field?
Communication, empathy, respect, and a genuine curiosity to keep learning.
Which destination would you love to visit for work or leisure, and why?
Japan and India are both high on my travel bucket list.
What’s one thing your colleagues might not know about you?
It’s a difficult question because we’re a very close and friendly team, so there are almost no secrets. But they probably don’t realise how many cups of coffee I drink during a working day — or how many pairs of shoes I manage to take on a single trip.
One word to describe your work style?
Newness.
What’s the best piece of career advice you’ve ever received?
Ukrainian philosopher Hryhorii Skovoroda once said: “Do what you are born to do.”
How do you unwind after a busy day?
I like reading news that’s not related to the industry – more about the world, politics, economy, and lifestyle. It helps me reset and stay connected beyond the cargo bubble.
What was your first job, and what did it teach you?
Surprisingly, my first job was already in journalism. When I was 15, I walked into the newsroom of the Lviv newspaper Vysokyi Zamok and asked if I could write investigative pieces for free. I had no prior writing experience, but my first article made the front page — and I earned my first pay. It taught me not to be afraid to try something new if you believe in yourself.
What’s your go-to productivity hack or routine?
I organise my work by breaking tasks down — separating what can be done quickly from what will take more time. I usually complete the smaller tasks first and leave the more complex work for later, when I can fully focus.
Who inspires you professionally — and why?
Journalist and travel show host Dmytro Komarov. An interesting fact: when I was interning at TSN news on 1+1, he worked in the same building — just one floor below.
What motivates you to keep pushing forward on tough days?
On difficult days, I try to refocus on the bigger goal — why we’re doing this in the first place. Thinking about the successful outcome helps me push a little harder and keep going.
What’s something quirky or unusual you always keep at your desk?
Perfume samples.
