In an exclusive conversation with Beverly Hills Magazine, we sit down with Katya Dunko, author of I Drank from the Nile, a deeply personal memoir about resilience, transformation, and faith. Through her incredible journey, Katya shares how she overcame childhood trauma, battled addiction, and found a renewed sense of purpose.
Her story is a testament to the power of self-discovery, healing, and faith, proving that even the darkest moments can lead to newfound strength and wisdom.
LISTEN TO THE FULL PODCAST INTERVIEW HERE
Beverly Hills Magazine: Your memoir has such a compelling title. What does it symbolize?
Katya Dunko: The title comes from an Egyptian saying—”If you drink from the Nile, you will return.” I visited Egypt during the 2012 revolution and fell in love with its culture. That phrase resonated with me because my journey was about coming back to myself, breaking cycles, and rediscovering my identity.
Beverly Hills Magazine: Your book is deeply personal. What was the hardest part to share?
Katya Dunko: Admitting that I was a high-functioning painkiller addict for almost a decade was incredibly difficult. I kept it hidden from everyone—family, friends, and even my partners. At first, I felt shame, but I came to understand that addiction is not a weakness, but a disease. Acknowledging my struggle helped me heal and inspired me to share my story so others don’t feel alone.
Beverly Hills Magazine: How did faith help you in your darkest moments?
Katya Dunko: There was a moment when I hit rock bottom—I had nothing but two bags, $800, and my daughter. I looked up at the stars and asked God for a sign, and at that moment, I saw a shooting star. It was a reminder that I still had a purpose. Faith gave me the strength to rebuild my life, and while my book isn’t religious, I share how spirituality shaped my transformation.
Beverly Hills Magazine: How did forgiveness play a role in your journey?
Katya Dunko: I realized that to become a better mother, I had to forgive my own mother. She introduced me to painkillers, and for years, I resented her. But I came to understand that hurt people hurt people. Forgiving her—and myself—was crucial in breaking generational pain and moving forward with peace.
Beverly Hills Magazine: Do you have daily habits that keep you positive and empowered?
Katya Dunko: Absolutely! I practice affirmations, and one of my favorites is “I am the luckiest girl in the world.” I also remind myself that every challenge is temporary and that I have survived so much already. Mindset is everything—it shapes how we experience life.
Beverly Hills Magazine: What advice do you have for others struggling with trauma?
Katya Dunko: First, sit with your pain instead of avoiding it. Too many people suppress their emotions, but healing requires facing them. Second, share your story—you never know who might need to hear it. Lastly, believe that you are here for a reason. Your experiences, even the painful ones, can serve a greater purpose.
Beverly Hills Magazine: What’s next for you and your book?
Katya Dunko: I’m currently seeking a traditional publishing deal, and I’d love to see my memoir inspire even more people. I also plan to write culturally rich romance novels, drawing from my experiences living in four countries and traveling to 33.
Katya Dunko’s journey is a powerful reminder that pain does not define us—how we rise from it does. Through faith, self-reflection, and resilience, she has transformed her struggles into a story of hope and empowerment.
For those searching for healing, I Drank from the Nile offers inspiration and the reminder that no matter how far we fall, we can always rise again.