In 2019, an invitation from Apple catapulted us into a whirlwind journey from developing a simple app to basking in the glamorous and bustling atmosphere of New York City. Here’s the story of how our app, Vostok, gained acclaim as one of the best, earning us an unforgettable experience courtesy of Apple.

The Birth of Vostok:

2019 marked the global ascent of 'stories', ephemeral content disappearing 24 hours after publication. Seizing this trend, I dived into learning Swift with an ambition to create something innovative and cool. The endeavor materialized into the Vostok app, enabling users to craft stylish frames for their photos, an epitome of trendy and aesthetic visual storytelling.

Rapid Success:

Completed in just three months and launched in Spring 2019, Vostok swiftly climbed to the pinnacle of the Russian app store, proving to be not just popular but also lucrative. It was a testimony to the app’s appeal and relevance in the age of transient digital narratives.

The Unexpected Invitation:

The wave of success caught the attention of Apple's Moscow office, resulting in an invitation to an exclusive event in New York in early December. Without hesitation, I accepted, notwithstanding the absence of a U.S. visa. A rushed but successful application process in Georgia saw me securing the visa in two weeks, a feat considering the typical four-month waiting period in Russia.

The New York Experience:

With flights booked, we found ourselves enveloped in the unique vibrance of New York, accommodated in Soho’s 11 Howard hotel, courtesy of Apple. Soho, with its antique buildings and authentic New York aura, struck a chord with me, earning a spot in my top 10 favorite places.

Event and Interaction:

The early December event was a melting pot of talented developers and cool teams, all gathered to celebrate the crème de la crème of apps. The camaraderie was palpable, and the event was impeccably organized. It was a pleasure to mingle with the brains behind Affinity and other creatives, sharing laughs and sipping wine in the midst of inspiring conversations.

Reflection and Gratitude:

The journey was more than just an event attendance; it was a culmination of innovation, learning, and recognition. A heartfelt thanks to Apple and every individual who was part of this journey. This experience had been a cherished secret, but it feels right to share it now, to express my gratitude and to inspire fellow developers to pursue their passions and innovations.

The journey from conceptualizing Vostok to experiencing the grandeur of New York has been surreal. It’s a reminder of the limitless possibilities that creativity coupled with hard work can unlock. This odyssey was not just about the glitz of recognition; it was a celebration of innovation, a learning experience, and above all, a source of lasting inspiration.