Ukraine 🇺🇦

Miya Kayuiro (solo): Hello! I’m Miya Kayuiro. I’m 18 years old and I started cosplaying in 2021! I am studying to be a theatrical costume designer and plan to continue creating wonderful images. I would be very happy to visit Spain and see other images in person.

KeyKey (duo): Hi! My name is KeyKey and I’m 23 years old. I’ve been in cosplay since 2017. Now it’s my full-time job and my greatest passion

Tiny Pauly (duo): Hello! My name is Polina, but everyone calls me Pauly. I’m 24 and I’ve been cosplaying for 10 years. So many years have passed… But now I have my own workshop and well, cosplay is the biggest part of my life and I love it!

How did you discover cosplay and what made you start in this hobby? How long ago?

Miya Kayuiro (solo): Since childhood, I loved trying on some images and creating something with my own hands. And when I got older, I often saw on social networks how people create amazing things. That’s why I also decided that I could do it, and I really liked it.

KeyKey (duo): Nine years ago, I met some amazing people, and together we created a cosplay group. Back then, cosplay became something that helped kids who felt rejected by society find acceptance and friendship. Some of them are still my closest friends to this day

Tiny Pauly (duo): Back in 2015, my classmates invited me to the first local comic con. I was very sceptical about it, even though I’ve always been a fan of comics and other things. But as soon as I entered the festival, I immediately went “WOOOOW”. Especially when I saw the cosplayers. The very next day of the festival, I made a Harley Queen “cosplay” out of everything I could find in my closet and I was the happiest person in the world that day hahaha

What does cosplay mean for you? And what is your favorite part of the hobby?

Miya Kayuiro (solo): At first, cosplay was just a hobby, but I put my whole soul into it. I really like watching people’s reactions, how I can please or surprise them. What could be better than the reaction of others? If I made them happier or more cheerful for a moment, then that is worth a lot!

KeyKey (duo): Cosplay is my way of sharing my creativity with the world. It’s no longer just a hobby — I can truly say that cosplay is the work of my life. I also love the idea that with my own hands, I can create anything I imagine.

Tiny Pauly (duo): Cosplay is a part of my life. I cosplay for work, I cosplay in my free time, and I learn new things for cosplay. It calms me down and gives me a sense of purpose in life, no matter how dramatic it may sound. Because cosplay for me is not only about creating something with my hands, it’s also about the community, people, friends, events, and of course emotions that it gives.

What changes do you see in the cosplay community in your country compared to when you started?

Miya Kayuiro (solo): When I wasn’t doing cosplay but just watching from the side, people around me were pretty negative or rather surprised about cosplay. A lot has changed since then.Now people react positively and they are happy to meet someone unusual be it a hero from a movie or anime.

KeyKey & Tiny Pauly (duo): Unfortunately, the last five years have been difficult for our community. First the pandemic, then the war — all of this has left a deep mark on the lives of Ukrainians, and many have lost the opportunity to pursue their favorite hobbies. Now, cosplay is once again being revived and gaining popularity in Ukraine, and we are very happy about it.

Why did you choose that project for the ICL national selection? Have you already decided on your finals project for Madrid? Can you give us a hint?

Miya Kayuiro (solo): The choice fell on this character because it is unique. Before this, I had not met characters who combine so many amazing things. I think the fact that my character combines contains a circus theme, a porcelain doll and flames… Amazing!

KeyKey & Tiny Pauly (duo): We chose our costumes specifically for the ICL two years ago. It wasn’t just because we love Star Wars — it was also because we feel a deep connection to the Mandalorian people, who have spent generations fighting for their freedom and independence.

Is this your first time competing in an international cosplay competition? What advice would you give to someone who wants to start cosplaying or join competitions?

Miya Kayuiro (solo): I have never participated in such large-scale festivals before, so this experience will be surprising for me. I don’t know how much I can give proper advice, but I can probably advise not to be afraid new and don’t be afraid to apply!

KeyKey (duo): Even though I’ve been doing cosplay for a long time, this is my first international competition — and I’m incredibly excited! My main advice for beginners is to believe in yourself and keep trying, even if things don’t work out at first. Your efforts will always be rewarded

Tiny Pauly (duo): I have participated in many local competitions and have been to foreign festivals as a judge, but this will be my first international competition! I am looking forward to it! For the newbies, I can only wish one thing – always do what your heart tells you! Don’t pay attention to haters or the opinion of others, do what you want, try what you want and no one should stop you!

What has been your most memorable cosplay experience so far?

Miya Kayuiro (solo): The character I will be in on IСL is my most amazing experience!

KeyKey (duo): Now it’s definitely a victory at the ICL selection! It’s an incredible feeling when your dream comes true.

Tiny Pauly (duo): Dear god… So many that I don’t even know. Probably the opening of the workshop, because when I first got the keys to it, I stood there and looked at it with an indescribable amount of emotions. And of course the last one is our victory in ICL selections haha.

What inspires your work the most—series, characters, craftsmanship, other artists…?

Miya Kayuiro (solo): The first and most important thing is the support of my loved ones, friends and family inspire me to new heights. I am also inspired by the challenge to myself, how difficult the work I can do.It’s interesting to understand what I, as a mother, am capable of.

KeyKey (duo): My cosplay friends and colleagues! Especially my partner Pauly. These people are full of phenomenal energy and are always ready to share it!

Tiny Pauly (duo):  I can be very inspired by the media. I’ll watch a TV series, play a game, and that’s it, total immersion, and I won’t rest until I’ve made something I’ve invented into reality. I’m also very inspired by other cosplayers and creators in general. Their work makes me want to create too

What are your expectations for your visit to Spain? Is it your first time in the country?

Miya Kayuiro (solo): This will be my first time in Spain and outside my home country in general! I expect the incredible, I like Spain and the people who live there. I can’t wait to see this country, city and people in real life.

KeyKey (duo): I’m looking forward to meeting  artists from all over the world! I also really want to discover Madrid!

Tiny Pauly (duo): I want to meet new people and, of course, see new places! I’ve never been to Spain before, but I’ve always wanted to. And of course, I want to try some delicious new food.

Describe the cosplay community in your country using five words.

Miya Kayuiro (solo): It’s difficult to describe the community somehow… I would probably say purposeful, strong, original in terms of ideas, I would say that I have seen a large number of wonderful productions at the performance. I would also like to note that even after a loss, we do not give up, but try to go to the end.

KeyKey & Tiny Pauly (duo): Supportive, inspiring, creative, brave and funny

Link to your Facebook page, Instagram and Twitter (add other social media if relevant):

Miya Kayuiro (solo): https://mssg.me/miya_kayuiro

KeyKey (duo): https://linktr.ee/keykeycosplay

Tiny Pauly (duo): https://linktr.ee/tiny.pauly

Miya Kazuhiro, KeyKey and Tiny Pauly were selected at Dice Con.