An Interview with Nadia Gryb, a Florida Notary Who Supports Ukrainians Worldwide
Nadia Gryb is a notary public with over 25 years of professional experience. She began her career in Ukraine and later rebuilt it from scratch in the United States. Now based in Tampa, Florida, Nadia provides notarial services to clients across the U.S. and abroad, offering legal support to fellow Ukrainians wherever they may be. In this interview with “Ukrainians Around the World,” she shares her professional journey, the challenges of adapting to a new system, and the importance of building trust in both law and community.
Nadia, how did your notarial career begin?
It all started back in 1997 in Ukraine. I began as a secretary at a notary’s office — back then, we still used typewriters. Over the years, I progressed through every stage of the profession, eventually becoming an independent notary. Today, I’m licensed in the state of Florida and continue to help people with the same dedication I had at the very beginning.
You moved to the U.S. and rebuilt your career from the ground up. Was that difficult?
Absolutely. It was a total reboot. I had to adapt to a new legal system, a different culture, and even a different way of communicating. I wasn’t sure I’d manage, but I saw the growing demand for notarial services among Ukrainians abroad. That gave me the strength to go through the training and get certified. Now I offer both in-person and remote services across the country — and even beyond.
How does the U.S. notarial system differ from Ukraine’s?
In Ukraine, a notary has broad legal powers: handling inheritance, certifying contracts, and much more. In the U.S., the role is more limited — mostly confirming signatures and verifying identities. But here, notaries can also officiate weddings and offer remote services, which opens up incredible opportunities, especially for diasporas.
What kind of services do you provide for Ukrainians living abroad?
Powers of attorney, affidavits, parental consents, marriage documents, apostille requests — everything people need in critical life situations. Remote notarization allows clients to sign legally binding documents from anywhere without waiting for a consulate appointment. I guide clients from consultation to document delivery back to Ukraine.
How popular are online notarial services among Ukrainians abroad?
Very popular, and demand is steadily increasing. Especially among mothers with children who relocated after the full-scale war began. Remote notarization is legal, fast, and incredibly convenient. Most importantly, it builds a bridge of trust between people — even when they’re thousands of miles apart.
You live in Tampa. Are you active in the Ukrainian community in Florida?
Yes, I regularly support local Ukrainian initiatives — legal aid projects, cultural events, charity work. We collaborate with lawyers, translators, and other professionals to provide full-service assistance to those in need. The war brought us closer together. We’ve created a little hub of legal and emotional support here in Florida.
Do you cooperate with other Ukrainian legal professionals abroad?
Absolutely. I work closely with attorneys in both the U.S. and Ukraine. Together, we help clients with inheritance cases, real estate transactions, divorces — all while navigating the legal frameworks of both countries. It’s a true synergy of knowledge, experience, and care.
What inspires you most about your profession?
People. Their stories, their gratitude, their resilience. I’ll never forget one online notarization I conducted during a missile strike in Ukraine. I offered to pause the session, but the client said, “It’s scary, but I’m used to it. Let’s finish.” That moment showed me how much strength and dignity Ukrainians carry — and why my work matters.
What does Ukraine mean to you today?
Ukraine is home — always. Even though I live in Florida now, my heart is there. Through my work, I help people stay connected to their country. I dream of returning one day, but until then, I do everything I can to be of service from here.
Tampa, Florida
