This is Anna Kroupina, reporting for duty as the new journalist for the Pass Herald. Since we’ll be seeing each other around town and I’ll be your weekly news informer, I’d like to introduce myself.

I was born in Kiev, Ukraine, but spent most of my childhood in Ottawa, Ontario. My university studies packed me off to Montreal, Quebec for the past 10 years, where I completed a degree in Journalism and a minor in Spanish, perfected mon français and cultivated a newfound appreciation for ice cider. For three years, I was a writer for a music magazine and had the opportunity to interview all genres of musicians, from blues guitar prodigy Jonny Lang to electro starlet Emma Hewitt and American Idol finalist Haley Reinhart. I also hosted my very own TV show on Bell TV1, a music-filled 30-minute segment where I introduced and interviewed local Montreal bands and musicians.

I pursued journalism for the reciprocal synergy of inspiring and informing readers, and in turn being inspired and informed myself. I enjoy the community aspect of local news where I get to share the stories that matter most to the residents. Add to that my thirst for travel and adventure, my love of the outdoors and nature, and my innate curiosity, this position with the Pass Herald is right up my alley.

Even before I physically arrived in Crowsnest Pass – after, might I add, a full three days of non-stop 12-hour driving through four of Canada’s provinces - I felt a sense of affection and awe about the Pass. I’ve been asked a few times whether coming here has been a culture shock, seeing as I’m coming from a city with a metropolitan population of roughly 4 million spanning 4,000 square feet, and while I thought there would be, I am relieved to say I almost felt right at home since the first day.

Perhaps it’s the coziness of being tucked in a nook among majestic mountains, or the fact that I’ve been greeted with nothing but kindness ever since I arrived, but I already feel a sense of familiarity with the region. Certain things will certainly need adjusting to and the job does not come without its challenges, but I’m nonetheless happy to call both Crowsnest Pass and the Pass Herald my home.

I look forward to getting to know the area and serving the people that make it what it is. Feel free to say ‘hi’ (or ‘salut’, or ‘hola’, or perhaps ‘privet, in person or on the web, and if you have any stories or tips, I would appreciate hearing about them at annakroupina@gmail.com or on the Pass Herald office line.

Instagram: @thisbiglittleworld
Twitter: @annakroupina