Meet Mariia Wolf, new PhD-student at DMO
Tell us something of your background. What are your research interests?
I am originally from Ukraine but have been living in Sweden for almost a decade. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Stockholm University, where I studied in the Global Management program, and a master’s degree in Business Administration from Södertörn University, where I specialized in Leadership for Sustainable Development. For my bachelor’s thesis, I studied collaboration practices at Stockholm Stadsmission, while my master’s thesis examined the professionalisation of nonprofit organizations, using Engineers Without Borders Sweden as a case study. Before moving to Sweden, I also earned a master’s degree in Documentary Filmmaking from St. Petersburg University of Film and TV. For me, documentaries are not only a form of artistic expression but also a way of making complex issues, such as questions of justice and responsibility, tangible and relatable.
What motivated you to pursue a PhD? What do you hope do investigate in your dissertation?
With several PhDs in my family (mostly in the natural sciences), I was always aware of the academic path, but it was not one I initially considered for myself. This changed once I realized that doctoral studies would allow me to explore the questions I am passionate about: the intersection of film, sustainability, and organizational change. In my PhD dissertation, I aim to investigate the role of documentary films in shaping perceptions and interactions around corporate responsibility, ethics, and organizational practices. The Stockholm School of Economics, with its strong focus on the connections between arts and business, provides the ideal environment for this research.
Apart from research, what other activities do you find yourself passionate about at the moment? Or perhaps help you recuperate?
Beyond academia, I enjoy spending time with family and friends. Lately, we often visit Skansen thanks to our annual passes. I also love going for nature walks (trying to leave electronic devices at home), exploring art museums, people-watching, and drinking tea.