Natalia Vlasenko - Medical Translator, Volunteer, Ballerina, Writer, Sloviansk

When a ballerina, a lover of her hometown, and a tourist guide writes from the front lines—fearlessly recounting the atrocities committed by russia as her nation fights for survival—you stop and listen. And Ms. Vlasenko writes. Natalia not only writes in her war diary; she documents. She takes close-up photographs so powerful you cannot look away. She is both a chronicler and a witness. This small, beautiful, regal Ukrainian is there on the front lines, helping soldiers in the medical stabilization points and translates the pain back. Natalia takes in the horrors and lets them pass through her onto the page. The result is enough to make you want to scream!

Time passes. The war is approaching a the three-year mark. Russian aggressor remains relentless. How can I scream louder for others to hear?

Thank you for your work, Natalia. You inspire me to keep going. We need to show the truth and write about it, we must document and multiply it. It has to live on after us, through our children and grandchildren. I will personally ensure you see more of this beautiful world. You will have a chance to give love and feel love in return! I am committed and I will not be silenced!

Arina Chaban - Nonprofit Founder, Military Volunteer, Mother, Dnipro

Since February 24th, 2022, the day russia launched a full-scale attack on Ukraine, Arina Chaban made a series of choices that brought her to the Ukrainian frontline battalion, just across the river from the russian attackers. At the onset of the russian bombings, Arina had the option to flee to Europe with her young daughter, Sofia. Instead, she chose to remain in her hometown of Dnipro, supporting her husband and his brigade of defenders. She chose to do her part to help Ukraine.

Arina's fundraising efforts are relentless, focusing on procuring essential items for Ukrainian soldiers—items that rarely make headlines but are vital to survival. These are not multimillion-dollar HIMARS systems or Leopard tanks. Instead, she secures winter socks, spare tires, hand warmers, backup generators, flashlights, anti-drone devices, and medical kits. These modest yet critical supplies often spell the difference between life and death for soldiers enduring freezing trenches or rescuing comrades under drone fire.

Arina’s secret weapon is her daughter, Sofia. “Sofia loves visiting the guys on the front, eating from the same soup pot with them,” Arina shares. “She’s the only child who comes to see them, and after three years of defending, her presence is an incredible morale boost.” This fearless mother-daughter duo embodies a resilience that defies Western norms, where the idea of bringing a child to a war zone would raise eyebrows.

Highlighting Arina Chaban’s story is not just about celebrating her bravery but recognizing the everyday heroism of Ukrainians fighting for their freedom. Arina's dedication, resilience, and sacrifices are a testament to the unbreakable spirit of a nation defending itself against the evil aggressor.

Iva Sidash - Photographer, Journalist, Witness, Kharkiv

One particular photography project by Iva Sidash has left a lasting impression on me. Titled Holding Hope, the series captures Ukrainians who endured the horrors of russian occupation and survived to share their stories. Each portrait, whether of an adult or a child, is paired with a handwritten note, recounting their experiences. The project, although conveying a profound sense of humanity, is an important reminder for those advocating for a “compromise” with the aggressor. Russians subjected these people to horrors and suffering; russian terror and cruelty are real. The vulnerability in Iva’s portraits is palpable, but Ukrainian resilience and dignity moved me to tears. Many of the accompanying notes, hand written in cursive, are brief—leaving much unsaid, forcing our imaginations to grapple with the unspoken depths of trauma.

Iva Sidash continues to impress me with her empathetic approach to documenting humanity amidst devastation. Her work captures not just the atrocities inflicted by russians on Ukraine but also the enduring Ukrainian spirit. As she herself has described: “Every scene I document feels deeply personal, not just as a photographer but as someone who belongs to this place and feels its pain.”

Iva, like all Ukrainians, faces constant danger from russian rockets and shelling. Yet she pushes forward, living near the russian border in Kharkiv and often reporting directly from the frontlines.

I’ve had an opportunity to meet her in person in New York and photograph her for WOW Woman; I can attest to Iva’s generous spirit and kind-hearted intentions. She is, without a doubt, a WOW Woman. I am proud to know her and honored to share her voice with this WOW Woman feature.

Yana Zalevska - Fearless Drone Pilot, Armed Forces of Ukraine, Lviv

The word "multik," translated as “children’s cartoon,” evokes joy and nostalgia for most Ukrainians, reminding us of the innocence of childhood. For the past two and a half years, Multik has been the call sign of one of the toughest women I know, Yana Zalevska. A Ukrainian defender in the Armed Forces, Yana’s wisdom and measured self-awareness overwhelm me with pride. It’s impossible to feel otherwise after reading her words, paired with images from her time on the frontline.

Yana’s youth contrasts with her steely determination, grit, and wisdom of a person four times her age. I’m touched by Yana’s unflinching honesty about the hardships she’s faced, her recovery from horrendous russian shelling, and incredibly sweet reflections on small self-care rituals amid the chaos of the war zone. Despite being in her early twenties, Yana has already witnessed and endured profound loss. Despite everything, or perhaps in spite of it, Yana carries the resilience of an old soul, combined with the positive outlook of a “multik.” As for her sense of humour, it has remained intact! Yana’s Instagram handle lists her place of work as the “Prison & Correctional Facility”. When it comes to dealing with russians, I’d say that’s spot on!

Currently, Yana is receiving treatment at the "Neopalymi" (or "Fireproof") facility in western Ukraine, a rehabilitation center for wounded soldiers and civilians alike. After surviving russian shelling, Yana is being treated for burns and scars by the skilled doctors at the Neopalymi. Even from her hospital bed, Yana continues to resist, writing about her experiences and expressing the pride she feels for her brothers- and sisters-in-arms. Her words and images moved me to tears, particularly the photos of the fallen comrades, honoured in memoriam.

Yana’s resilience and unwavering spirit are a testament to the strength of Ukraine. Now and forever.

Halyna Zhuk - Engineer, Psychologist, Volunteer, Caring Heart, Odesa

As of September 30, 2024, Project Konstantin had successfully evacuated 219 hurt Ukrainian soldiers away from russian invaders, directly from the front lines, ensuring that the wounded received critical care during their evacuation and hospital transfers.

Halyna Zhuk has become a symbol of Ukraine’s resilience. After half of her team at Project Konstantin was killed by russians, Halyna has taken on the challenging role of delivering medical supplies to the front lines and working closely with the Ukrainian military. She has truly become the backbone of Project Konstantin.

In addition to her operational duties, Halyna is pursuing a degree in psychology, preparing for the inevitable wave of Ukrainian veterans, amputees, and returning POWs who will grapple with PTSD and trauma. As russia's brutal tactics leave Ukraine with one of the highest numbers of amputees and emotionally scarred individuals, Halyna is committed to helping those in need.

I am proud to share Halyna’s story— wisdom and strength of her words inspire me. She is a true Ukrainian, a WOW Woman with a doer’s attitude, killer instincts and a fighter’s spirit. With caring hearts like Halyna’s, Ukraine will persevere.

Olga Turutja-Prasolova - Theatre Director, Artist, Rivne

When I used to think of a nation defiantly standing up against an aggressor, my mind immediately went only to military defense. But since russia’s brutal full-scale invasion of my country, Ukrainians have shown me other ways to remain defiant. I’ve seen soldiers singing and creating memes to lift the spirits of their compatriots. I’ve witnessed couples exchanging vows in front of missile-damaged buildings, intent on preserving their reality for future generations. I’ve listened to classical concerts staged atop the rubble of bombed-out theaters. I’ve watched as civilian volunteers, in long lines, clear the rubble in the hopes of digging up survivors from the ruins of russian-destroyed apartment blocks.

One form of resistance stood out to me—a community of Ukrainian artists fiercely preserving access to the arts, despite the bombings and air raid alarms. By continuing to create, they offer a lifeline to the human spirit, a connection to something pre-war, something humane, something real. Stéphane Hessel, a French resistance fighter during World War II, once said, 'To resist is to create.' Throughout this period of heroic Ukrainian resistance, I’ve come to understand that art is more than an emotional outlet. It helps people process the trauma of conflict while offering hope and solidarity.

My Inside Ukraine WOW Woman Olga Turutia-Prasolova does just that. Through her artful stage productions, Olga is not only preserving the culture and identity that russians seek to erase, but she also reminds both Ukrainians and the world of the enduring strength and humanity that persists; defiance, even under siege.

Stella Orel - Military Volunteer, Grandmother, Entrepreneur, Zaporizhzhia

The introduction for my Inside Ukraine WOW Woman Stella Orel will be done by someone I respect very much. She is a true patriot and a survivor of the russian siege of Mariupol. For the security reasons, I can’t name her but these are her words:

“Stella Orel is an acquaintance of mine and a super woman volunteer. Stella is fighting for the release of the defenders of Mariupol and Mariupol marine infantry garrison. Unfortunately, she is battling a serious illness, while every minute her thoughts are with the defenders, warriors, Heroes of Ukraine. She is the epitome of an ‘indomitable Ukrainian woman’. I am immensely proud of her strength and unbreakable spirit. She's now volunteering with the brigades of the Armed Forces of Ukraine who are fighting the enemy in the hottest spots of the frontline. I respect Stella because she understands me, she sees me. Because she helps the fighters, she sees death and deeply understands what it’s like to lose friends. But she also sees a bright future for Ukraine. She lives for this future, for the Ukrainian warriors, for those who will go all the way to our victory!

Stella is fighting for the release of the defenders of Mariupol from the russian captivity. These are the guys who helped my little girl and me get out of that hell. Stella fights for the release of our heroes, for their exchange. Of all my husband’s brothers-in-arms in Mariupol, some men survived but were captured by the encircling russians. Several were exchanged in a prisoner swap and we keep going to the rallies organized by Stella to bring attention to the rest of the guys in the russian captivity. I am inspired by Stella because she is a fighter and I was saved by fighters like her.”

Olena Sugak - Photographer, Tour Guide, Mariupol Chronicler, Survivor, Kyiv

If you watched the documentary "20 Days in Mariupol," you know that the world was initially unaware of the atrocities perpetrated by the russian federation inside Mariupol. The russians cut power and communications immediately, plunging nearly 500,000 Mariupol residents into a nightmare of explosions, freezing temperatures, and deprivation. My Inside Ukraine hero, Olena Sugak, was trapped in the city for well beyond 20 days. She witnessed and documented the full impact of the russian bombings and occupation. Bravely, she wrote about her experiences while still surrounded by russians.

Ms. Sugak, an ordinary citizen, made the extraordinarily courageous decision to chronicle the events unfolding in her beloved Mariupol. Despite overwhelming fear and real threat to her being found out, tortured and killed, she maintained enough composure to record the aftermath of russian bombings, the siege, and ultimately the russian occupation. Olena captured the horrific scenes of russian cruelty: absolute destruction and the bodies of Ukrainian civilians, left unburied in the city streets due to continuous shelling.

After enduring over three months of occupation, Ms. Sugak miraculously escaped to Ukrainian-held territory. Now in Kyiv, she has shared her harrowing experiences with me. She began writing, pouring her pain onto the pages. Her unedited account, accompanied by the historical images she captured, shows Ukrainians striving for survival while remaining dignified and humane, even against the backdrop of the lurking russian occupiers. As russians paraded through neighborhoods, falsely claiming "liberation," Ukrainians were helping one another survive, sharing their last bits of food. Often crying into her viewfinder, Olena continued to secretly photograph her beloved Mariupol.

Nadiia Sukha - Investigative Journalist, War Reporter, Undisclosed Location

As I delved into Nadiia Sukha’s answers, it became evident that she embodies an indomitable spirit, dignity and resolve of the Ukrainian people. It is my hope that readers also feel this sentiment deeply. Amidst the russia-brought turmoil on Ukrainian land, remarkable individuals like Nadiia are fighting, reporting, and risking their lives daily for Ukraine’s freedom and independence—privileges many of us take for granted in our respective corners of the world.

Nadiia Sukha has witnessed the horrors of russian attacks and seen first hand the price Ukrainians pay for their resistance. With unwavering courage, she continues her work. Nadiia accompanies Ukrainian soldiers to the frontline, documenting and exposing the atrocities committed by russian forces. She is not just a reporter; she is a paragon of fearlessness.

Few possess Ms. Sukha’s profound moral clarity and strength. Women like Nadiia inspire me deeply. She will be written into the history of Ukraine’s resilience, bravery and resistance. Her descendants will read about their mother and grandmother and feel immense pride.

Yuliia Ihorivna Rymarenko - DEFENDER, ARMED FORCES OF UKRAINE, NOVOMOSKOVS’K

While defending her country from the russian invader, Ms. Yuliia Rymarenko’s heel and part of the leg were blown off. Doctors had a hard time agreeing on how to proceed. Ms. Rymarenko feared amputation. But the leg was saved by a brave Ukrainian surgeon; so was Yuliia’s life.

"There is a rule at the hospital”, says Yuliia, “in a severe emergency, doctors cut off the clothes right off the wounded person’s body. My army boots were brand new, expensive. All I remember yelling out was ‘Don't cut the boots!” Thankfully, the doctor only cut the laces. Much is ahead for Yuliia, in terms of rehabilitation, but I’m certain about one thing: Yuliia Rymarenko’s, whose calls sign is Mala (“small”) is tougher than the titanium plate keeping her leg intact.

My Inside Ukraine interview is with a hero, who, for over five years, fought for her home, her family, her freedom. Defender Ms. Yuliia Rymarenko.

Viktoria Lisogor - Librarian, Hero, Mariupol Survivor, Dnipro

In the early hours of February 24, 2022, Ms. Lisogor and Mariupol’s half a million residents woke up to the sounds of russian bombs. The sovereign nation of Ukraine was being invaded by the Russian Federation from air, sea, and ground. Mariupol, as an industrial port, was on the list of cities the russians aimed to invade rapidly and most cruelly. The situation in Mariupol deteriorated beyond horrific as it quickly became evident that Putin was doubling down. The russians were indiscriminate as they destroyed one apartment block after another, cutting off electricity and water to the city’s residents. People began melting snow, stepping outside to procure food and baby formula. Thousands were burned or buried inside their homes; thousands huddled in the full and stuffy basements of high-rises. For the next several weeks and months, Mariupol was under russian siege.

As the bombing worsened, in an effort to save their children and themselves, people traveled to common city spaces. They were looking for warmth, information, safety, and signs of human kindness. People were seeking other people. Mariupol Public Library filled up with 50 families who had survived bombings, needed a roof over their heads, and were terrified of being alone in dark basements. By this point, many residents had buried their relatives and children in the rubble. The person who brought the families inside, situated them among the bookshelves and barricaded windows, was the head librarian, Viktoria Lisogor.

Meriam Yol - Volunteer Organization COO, Compassionate Doer, Kharkiv

There is no time for lengthy introduction for my Inside Ukraine WOW Woman Meriam Yol. Her hometown, Kharkiv, is under attack, and you must know about her now!

Ukraine's second-largest city is burning. Since February 24, 2022, russians have bombed relentlessly, destroying civilian infrastructure in an attempt to demoralize the population. They fail to understand. Kharkiv will never submit, fueled by courage of women like Vita Kushnerevych and Vikky Osemene, who sacrifice their nerves and health to remain in their homes, inside their city.

Kharkiv has my next Inside Ukraine WOW Woman, Ms. Meriam Yol, whose love for her city is impossible to fully convey in words. Perhaps I can try by telling you about Ms. Yol's support for Ukrainian defenders, her tireless efforts in rescuing civilians, and her volunteering to rebuild homes destroyed by russian bombs. You must also hear about her plan to save lives by refurbishing bomb shelters in apartment high-rises. This work is ongoing.

Meriam’s most recent project exhibits her compassion and care for those most tormented by russia's war: Ukrainian civilians who lost everything under russian occupation. Meriam created a way for residents of de-occupied Ukrainian territories to earn a modest income from their precious remaining asset—their free land. Through Ms. Yol's organizing, these predominantly elderly Ukrainians can now sell their produce at the Kharkiv city market, at a place aptly named “De-occupation Shop.” This effort brings tears of sorrow, hope, and pride.

I'm sure that wherever Ms. Yol goes, she brings hope and a clear plan of action. She is a compassionate doer.

Daria Synhaievska - Political Science Analyst, Journalist, Scholar, Kyiv

When I write about Ukraine now, I realize that I am chronicling the lives of those who will shape the future of a nation in the midst of a profound transformation. Ukraine is currently navigating the complexities of self-governance amidst the turmoil of war, and it stands on the cusp of significant growth and development. Even under relentless bombardment, Ukrainians are actively deciding on the traditions they wish to establish, free from russian influence, and addressing the toxic legacies left by their murderous neighbor. Central to this transformation is the imperative to raise future generations who neither forget nor fall victim to the looming threat of russian expansionism. Ukrainian intellectuals are thus engaged in discussions and debates about their national past while simultaneously envisioning and dreaming of a brighter future for Ukraine.

Consider my Inside Ukraine WOW Woman, Ms. Daria Synhaievska. A member of the graduating class of 2022, Daria entered the real world during the full-scale russian invasion of Ukraine. Her Political Science degree and university research experience were immediately put to the pressure test. Rising to the challenge, Daria joined a group of intellectuals at Ukraine World, an organization dedicated to communicating the situation in Ukraine to international audiences. In collaboration with her colleagues, Ms. Synhaievska plays a crucial role in keeping global attention focused on Ukraine. Her impeccable English fluency enables her to provide firsthand, stoic accounts of the atrocities committed by russian forces. True to the resilient spirit of Ukrainians, Daria remains capable of discussing the aggressor’s imperial ambitions with calm and thorough analysis, even while seeking refuge from his bombs. With thought leaders like Ms. Synhaievska, I am confident that Ukraine's future is in capable hands.

Daryna Sukhonis - Journalist, Dnipro

Ms. Daryna Sukhonis proudly hails from Dnipro, a city in the East of Ukraine with a pre-invasion population of ~1 million. Since the full-scale attack on Ukraine, Dnipro and its compassionate residents welcomed nearly 500,000 internally displaced Ukrainians. However, no one is safe in Ukraine. Due to its eastern location and its industrial significance, Dnipro continues to be the target for relentless and barbaric russian bombings.

Daryna has persevered through incessant attacks on Ukraine. She did not leave her city. In fact, her job as a journalist and reporter allows her to keep her finger on the pulse of Dnipro. Although her work takes her to russian crime scenes, Daryna most importantly brings forth stories of incredible Ukrainian bravery, acts of kindness, and determination. She has a knack for highlighting extraordinary Ukrainians. Special attention should be given to her series of interviews dedicated to military volunteers and members of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Her interview subjects are heroes who risk their lives for freedom, some have been robbed of their limbs, and most have lost close friends on the front.

Ms. Daryna Sukhonis has a gift for direct and piercing storytelling. I most admire her dedication to sharing stories of Ukrainians, both military members, as well as civilians, who have been affected by russia’s attack. Her project is called Stories of War. Each person has their own account of the horrors they experienced since February 24, 2022 and Daryna, calmly and with great care, listens to each account. A kind and empathetic person, Daryna seems to share the emotions and pain that is poured onto her. That is a gift and also the heavy price of her professionalism. It cannot be easy. Yet she keeps going.

Tetiana Shcherbak - Civil Servant, Communicator, Survivor, Kyiv

”A few words about Tanya Shcherbak - a tough, strong-willed, unbreakable, kind and generous WOW Woman. From the first days of the full-scale invasion, Tanya was in charge of coordinating humanitarian headquarters that collected and delivered aid to the war zone. Tanya delivered thousands of tonnes of life-saving humanitarian aid to all parts of Ukraine, to both civilians and the military. There was nothing that Tanya could not get.

After the end of the fighting in the immediate Kyiv region, Tanya devoted all her efforts to rebuilding the cities. She attracted and continues to attract foreign partners who helped to rebuild schools, kindergartens, and housing for people affected by the war. Thanks to her, hospitals have received new equipment and facilities that help save lives. This woman is unstoppable!!! She works 24/7, continues to coordinate reconstruction, help civilians and the military and defend Ukraine's interests in the international arena.

Thanks to women like Tanya, our country continues to move toward victory!” - Zoriana Mironishena, WOW Woman from Irpin, Ukraine.

Evelina Riabenko - Fixer, Freelance Producer, New York Times, Ray of Sunshine, Undisclosed Location

Foreign correspondents covering russia’s war in Ukraine may not know the language nor the local customs, so they rely completely on competent Ukrainians, often referred to as “fixers”. Fixers arrange and sort out every single detail for foreign correspondents and photographers. Working as a fixer can be quite dangerous because fixers move towards conflict zones instead of running away. Additionally, fixers serve as the face of the locals to the foreigners and vice versa, which at times creates friction and may pose dangers to both parties. At the end of the day, journalists get their stories and leave, but fixers stay behind, with the local population in the ruins of the war.

I was able to interview a Ukrainian fixer for the New York Times, Ms. Evelina Riabenko. Needless to say, she is an incredible WOW Woman who traverses heavily bombed areas of Ukraine with multiple crews of photographers and journalists. Ms. Evelina Riabenko possesses the boldness and bravery to embed with military personnel, earn locals’ trust, and translate the pain of loss as well as the horrific accounts of russian torture and sexual assaults. By risking her life daily, Ms. Riabenko aids in exposing russian barbarism to the global audience.

To date, Ms. Riabenko’s professionalism has contributed to over 50 stories for the New York Times. She conveys and translates people’s stories to the world’s top journalists who, in turn, disseminate the truth about russian aggression. However, what I admire most about Evelina is her courage to really listen to her countrymen, help them unburden, and feel heard. To me, this is Evelina’s true superpower.

Mariia Borysenko - Rescue Dog Handler and Trainer, Car Tuning Technician for the Armed Forces, Pavlohrad, Ukraine

Women inside Ukraine are truly remarkable. As I write about Ms. Mariia Borysenko, I struggle to contain my emotions. She is a brilliant young Ukrainian who, upon crossing the threshold of her mid-20s, has endured the relentless onslaught of russian bombs overhead. Despite this, as a young professional working in her beloved fields of auto tuning and dog training, Ms. Borysenko has employed every peacetime skill she possesses to assist her country during this evil invasion, aiding both suffering civilians and the men and women in the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

What strikes me as most unjust and enraging is the lost time and opportunity for Ukrainian youth who, for almost 2.5 years now, have witnessed and endured the crimes perpetrated by their barbaric neighbor. How and where will the young people of Ukraine reclaim that precious time to experience youth, to be carefree and joyful? Nevertheless, the resilience demonstrated by women like Ms. Borysenko is astonishing, and it is this resilience that drives me to support Ukraine. Seeing ordinary, under-the-radar individuals silently transform into determined warriors serves as a wake-up call, urging me to act and utilize my own skills, much like Mariia does, to provide aid to Ukraine in any conceivable form.

Julia Tymoshenko - Media Communications Specialist, Ukrainer, Saint Javelin, Kyiv, Ukraine

My Inside Ukraine WOW Woman Ms. Julia Tymoshenko, who before the war was as confused about the future as anyone in their early twenties. However, when russians started bombing Kyiv and invaded her home village two years ago, Julia’s mission crystalized. She, and the entire generation of students, grads and new career professionals use their peace-time skills to help Ukraine survive, and win, this war. In Ms. Timoshenko’s case, it was her knowledge of English, her quiet confidence, passion and chutzpah which I found so compelling. I keep seeing Ms. Tymoshenko pop up in my feeds:

* through her work with a cheeky Canadian-Ukrainian information disseminator platform called Saint Javelin

* as an interviewer for Ukrainer’s English language platform (Ukraine Through the Eyes of Reporters)

* as a Spend_With_Ukraine ambassador with her touching promotion of Ukrainian embroidery, artists and brands.

* and finally from the Ukraine’s 25 Under 25: Young and Daring Award. The award was created to highlight the work of the emerging media makers in Ukraine.

It’s endearing, Julia’s subtle but powerful activism that permeates throughout her online presence. It all adds up to an endless creative stream of actions aimed at helping her country. Julia Tymoshenko and young women and men in her orbit give me hope that, even in a time of war, no outside threat will be able to rob Ukrainians of resolve, power and optimism. Through them, we will persevere and triumph.

Victoria Osemene - Teacher, Linguist, Digital Creator, Kharkiv

Ms. Victoria Osemene initially moved to Ukraine from Lagos to pursue her studies. Ten years of Ukrainian immersion and two degrees later, it’s safe to assume that Victoria fell in love with the city of Kharkiv, Ukraine’s culture and its people.

On February 24, 2022, Ms. Osemene, alongside Kharkiv’s 1.4M residents, awakened to the sounds of bombs and shelling - russians were invading, bombing and moving toward the city. In the coming weeks and months, Victoria witnessed an exodus of locals and foreign nationals, yet decided to stay put. The most vicious russian bombings of Kharkiv followed as moscow deployed hundreds of strategic bombers, ballistic and cruise missiles, as well as Iranian or russian-made drones, all taking minutes to reach the city from the russian border, located a mere 32km/19miles away from Kharkiv’s city center. Russians continue bombing Khakriv to this day.

I respect Victoria for opening her heart to my people and continually using her voice to counteract the heavy russian propaganda circulating worldwide. I also admire Victoria’s sense of humour and positivity despite the daily tragedy unfolding in her city; she finds humour and perseveres.

Through her courageous truth-telling and support of the brave Ukrainian fighters (she donates blood and vocally denounces the aggressor), Vicky earned respect of Ukrainians around her. Vicky fell in love with Ukrainian culture, language and traditions; Ukrainians, in return, fell in love with Vicky. Vicky paid her dues by sticking with Kharkivites and for that she is a WOW Woman and a Ukrainian in my books.

Kris Oliinyk - Volunteer, Project Manager Ukrainian Charitable Foundation, Kyiv

I’ve spent a great deal of time poring over Ms. Kristina Oliinyk’s social media stories. I was particularly interested in her Ukrainian war diary from 2022, a collection of daily videos depicting an evolution of human response to an attack on one’s homeland. Kris’s toughness, vulnerability and despair in the initial weeks and months of russian terror were gut-wrenching. As Kris’s business in the beautiful wine country of Cape Town flourished, Kris’s mom and sister were huddled together in Kyiv bomb shelter. Kris was 5900 miles / 9460 km away from the loves of her life, watching the horror unfold through news reports and accounts of everyday Ukrainians. It was in those moments, after the full-scale invasion started, Kris began recording, mainly in English, for her South African friends and anyone who would listen.

February 24th, 2024 marks two years of the full scale russian barbarism. As I type this, russians continue to slaughter Ukrainian men, women and children. Male population of Ukraine is being actively wiped off the face of the earth, many families have been displaced internally or have settled abroad. Ukrainian social media videos look very different now, compared to the beginning of the invasion, folks are attempting to find a new kind of “normal”, focusing on mental health while trying to stay alive. Human psyche seemed to allow people to live, coexist and survive within the confines of daily air raids and impeding mobile bombing alerts. Ukrainians are persevering. Military has become God. Global opinions and proposed “solutions” fluctuate depending on the country and the hemisphere. One thing remained constant - Ukrainian women like Kris continue acting and doing.

We are Ukrainians after all, we will never submit; we will resist forever!

Nadiia Chorna - Teacher, Caregiver, Children and Adults with Special Needs, Novyi Rozdil

When russia brought the war of aggression onto Ukrainian land, Ukrainian women were forced to provide for their families within the debilitating confines of war. Additionally, uniting around the shared rage against the aggressor, Ukrainians began to act. Ukrainian women organized and volunteered, they picked up arms, switched careers to serve the front, fundraised for the army and advanced the fields of innovation and education; all while living under a constant threat of indiscriminate russian bombing campaigns.

My current Inside Ukraine WOW Woman, Ms. Nadiia Chorna, is no exception. On the surface, Ms. Chorna is a regular Ukrainian woman, a kind and gentle demeanor and a soft approach toward others. Nadiia’s passion is working with unique people in her community: kids and adults with special needs, kids without parents and the elderly. Nadiia is an angel who makes lives of those around her better. When russians invaded, she continued her work with the disadvantaged but also assisted internally displaced Ukrainian refugees, conducted fundraisers for the army and began fundraising. Such was and continues to be extra work and burden on Ukrainians who are split between helping, volunteering and attempting to provide for their families.

“I am a small pot, but I do everything in my power and within my family's means.”

I am proud of and inspired by Ukrainian women, wonderstruck by the collective action of Ukrainians who are persevering through the worst atrocities the country has experienced in centuries. I know that as long as Ukraine boasts warm and kind people like Nadiia Chorna, Ukraine will come out victorious.

Inna Furman - Entrepreneur, Builder of Ukraine's Future, 3D House Creator, Kyiv

When it comes to russia’s war of aggression, Ukrainians continue their stellar resistance, both soldiers on the front as well as the civilian population. It’s incredible that through drone attacks and civilian bombings, there remains a space for entrepreneurialism, bold ideas and complex thought among the battered population. Alas, war serves as a big stimulus for innovation and as such, it has forced Ukrainians to think outside the box. To put it bluntly, without innovating Ukrainians will not survive. Unsurprisingly, Ukraine became the hub for passionate people who poured their skills into survival concepts, defense ideas, infrastructure betterment and growing of an already world-class tech sector.

Personally, I am wowed by women who didn’t fold their arms after invasion, learning instead to coexist with fear, picking themselves up by their bootstraps and making a bold choice to jump into action, oftentimes outside their areas of expertise. Ms. Inna Furman is one such human - a perfect marriage of skills and bravery. She is a successful entrepreneur and CEO who, upon invasion, dove into volunteering and used her know-how to build and better civilian infrastructure in new and innovative ways.

Natalka Sonechko - Tireless Volunteer, Miracle Worker, Lviv

On March 2, 2022 worldwide news outlets reported “15,000 Russian soldiers are invading Ukraine from the north, with a convoy made up of tanks, armoured vehicles and an array of other artillery and military hardware. The massive 40 mile-long convoy is snaking along roads toward Kyiv. The column entered Ukraine from Belarus, passed the town of Prybirsk and is almost toward Kyiv.”

When I realized that my Inside Ukraine WOW Woman, Ms. Natalka Sonechko (who goes by “Ladybug”) is from Prybirsk, the hair on my arm stood up; the terror of the 64 km/40-mile attacker convoy, filled with 15,000 blood-thirsty aggressors, turned from fantastical to personal and real. Sonechko’s entire existence, her home and a summer camp for the children called “Palms Touch” were destroyed in the matter of hours. Ms. Sonechko’s made it out and has since been displaced as a refugee to Lviv in western Ukraine; Natalka did not fold her arms, she mobilized! This interview is a story of incredible defiance, perseverance and rage that has been channeled into action!

Natalka is a tireless miracle worker, she helps Ukraine on all fronts. Frontline soldiers receive Natalka’s care packages, first aid backpacks and medical supplies, but her sweet spot and passion lie with helping others through interaction with horses. At her Palms Touch camp, Natalka conducts equine-assisted, as well as art therapy with both Ukraine’s youth and her brave veterans; soldiers, who often are without limbs and have prosthetics, undergo a physical, occupational, and speech therapy that utilize the natural gait and movement of a horse to provide motor, and sensory input. With nurture, care and compassion, Natalka invests in Ukraine’s future. As russia-brought carnage continues, there is little time for Ukrainians to start healing from the collective war trauma, loss and devastation. However, shining stars like Natalka are out there, taking first steps toward this difficult and necessary healing process.

Andirana Susak-ArekhtA - WARRIOR DEFENDER, ARMED FORCES OF UKRAINE, WOMEN IN MILITARY ADVOCATE, UNDISCLOSED LOCATION

My Inside Ukraine WOW Woman Ms. Andirana Susak-Arekhta first took part in the Revolution of Dignity, standing up to the pro-russian government and changing the course of Ukraine forever. Then, when russia annexed Crimea in 2014, Ms. Susak-Areckhta chose to leave the corporate world and enlist in a fighter battalion, with the aim to defend Ukraine’s right to exist as a sovereign democratic nation.

In the Ukrainian Armed Forces at the time, women like Andiana who proved intelligent, professional and reliable, were not exempt from difficult military tasks. Andriana took part in dangerous reconnaissance missions, provided first aid to the wounded comrades, coordinated prisoner exchanges, motivated and trained new arrivals and much more. Although militarily and tactically, women were taking part in the combat missions, served as snipers, grenade launchers, reconnaissance soldiers, artillerists, Ukrainian legislation did not reward them with commensurate titles, salaries, social or military benefits, awards, social status nor career opportunities in the army. Instead, on paper, these brave soldiers were listed as army cooks, seamstresses, cleaners and accountants. As such, female fighters were invisible, no matter how much they contributed to their nation. Andriana resisted this notion, spoke out and has been a strong advocate for women’s rights in the military ever since, founding Veteranka, an organization focused on uniting women from a variety of military backgrounds.

Since the full-scale russian invasion, Andriana returned to the military service, defending Ukraine from the ongoing russian barbarism. Andriana was gravely injured as her vehicle drove over a mine, she rehabbed and is back serving her nation. As the biggest advocate for US support, Andriana was one of the people who were instrumental in American Abrams tanks shipments to Ukraine.

Glory to Ukrainian Heroes!

Tetiana Oliinyk - DRONE PILOT, ARMED FORCES OF UKRAINE, NURSE, FEARLESS WOMAN, UNDISCLOSED LOCATION

My Inside Ukraine WOW Woman Ms. Tetiana Oliinyk captured my attention with her honest portrayal of what it’s like to be a woman in the Armed Forces. Whatever you imagine feeling in her shoes, forget about it! It’s impossible to understand a full picture of such a life’s choice, hence impossible and wrong to judge it. Our job is then to listen, read and educate ourselves. I would not be able to write a single cohesive sentence upon landing in the midst of a war; neither would most of you. That’s why, as Ms. Tetiana Oliinyk’s inner monologue pours out onto a page, no holds barred, we should all be transfixed and reading. Ms. Oliinyk didn’t ask for this attack by the fascist neighbor, but she left her office job and decided to dive in - as a defender of the Ukrainian people.

On one hand, I’m able to internalize her sacrifice and honour Tetiana’s daily decision to get up and risk her life. On the other hand, I’ll never be able to fully understand. How many shattered and rebuilt emotions must one go through to first be attacked and hear the sounds of exterminatory bombs, then feel the rage and injustice at the thought of a future destroyed, followed by a decision to enlist in the nation’s Armed Forces? I wouldn’t know the first thing about how to seek support, to feel the feelings of being a woman in the army, to watch brothers and sisters get killed and not be able to bury them because of the danger involved. I do know that a woman full of rage can be both effective and lethal, yet I still wouldn’t know what it’s like to strategize, conserve energy, kill the enemy invader, sleep and repeat. Ms. Tetiana does. That’s why I will shut up and read her words.

Anastasia Piddubna- RADIO PRESENTER, MARIUPOL SURVIVOR, UKRAINIAN MOTHER

From the moment of the full-scale russian invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, Mariupol was being destroyed one block at a time, with people buried inside their apartments, homes and in buildings’ basements. Being on russia’s list of strategic port cities to occupy, Mariupol and its residents received no mercy. Ms. Anastasia Piddubna was due to give birth in Mariupol, in March 2022. When russian bombs began to drop, she was moved to a bomb-shelter of the Maternity Hospital No. 3 in the Mariupol city center. The sequence of events in “20 Days in Mariupol”, the Ukrainian filmmakers’ capture of the aftermath of the russian bombing of the Maternity Hospital No. 3 and Ms. Piddubna’s ordeal coincide - they show Anastasia and her family members in the mere minutes after the explosion.

Interview with Ms. Anastasia Piddubna was conducted remotely. She has so far been an exception to the Inside Ukraine project, where all interviewees live on the territory of Ukraine. Ms. Piddubna’s astonishing circumstance have led her to Europe, and not by choice. Her story is so compelling that I was inspired to create an Inside Ukrainian Heart split to my coverage of Ukrainian WOW Women. Anastasia is an exceptional woman and although she resides abroad, she lives and breathes Ukraine, going to extraordinary lengths to help our nation remain in the spotlight, persevere through russian attacks and continue to seek justice on an international scale. Anastasia’s courage, willpower and her incredible nerves of steel should give us all courage to stand up against barbarism that russian federation seems to sew not only in Ukraine but all over the world.

Irina Terehovich-Sopko - Staff Sergeant, Armed Forces of Ukraine, Undisclosed Location

As a Ukrainian living abroad, I am in awe of all women Inside Ukraine making ends meet during the most brutal russian miliary offense on my home country. Some women though, are just built differently. I’m unable to sufficiently capsulize my feelings about Ms. Irina Terehovich-Sopko, imagine nor match her level of dedication toward Ukraine’s defense. What I am able to take away from Irina’s words, is the resolve for all of us, especially Ukrainians abroad, to strive and sacrifice something to help Ukraine. I’m thankful to Ms. Terehovich for that push and reminder; global democracy rests on the outcome of this invasion on this sovereign European nation. I pledge to make a concerted effort to do something every day; thanks to this wake up, I plan to consistently sacrifice either my time or money to help Ukrainians defeat the hostile russian aggressor.

Ms. Terehovich-Sopko first volunteered for the Armed Forces of Ukraine in early 2010's when it was still impossible for women to officially serve in the combat positions in the military. But when russians invaded the first time, in 2014, the rules of the game changed - competent volunteers were suddenly noticed, no matter their gender. So later that year, when russians succeeded in their illegal takeover of Ukrainian eastern provinces and Crimea, Irina enlisted. Irina is from the western region of Ukraine, the beautiful Carpathian mountains - fresh air, forests and European feel - yet she made her way all the way to the front, in the industrial east, and began her career as a defender. Since the full-scale invasion of February 2022, Irina doubled down; she is now a Staff Sergeant. Irina risks her life daily for her three beautiful children she left behind and for their and every Ukrainian’s future. Irina has seen and heard what russians bring with their “liberation”; she thus wants Ukrainians to keep their basic human freedoms - rights to life and liberty, freedom from occupation and torture, freedom of opinion and expression - all the liberties we sometimes take for granted in the west. Irina’s daily sacrifices, immense risks to her life and safety, get me fired up to act and support her efforts from the rear. We cannot let russian fascists in, we must keep supporting Ukraine!

Natalya Dedova - Journalist, TV Presenter, Mariupol Survivor

Ms. Natalya Dedova is a collector of people’s stories. Ms. Dedova is from Mariupol, a city on the Sea of Azov, in Ukraine. Natalya was born in Mariupol, studied there, worked as a local newscaster and a journalist there. Mariupol is where Natalya met her husband Victor (or Vitya); sparks flew - she in front of the camera, he behind. Natalya lived and breathed Mariupol and its people. Residents loved and respected her, especially her decade-long volunteer work with the Mariupol charity she founded, Marathon of Kindness, where she fundraised for the medical treatment of gravely ill children.

Then, in the early hours of February 24, 2022, russians invaded Ukraine. Natalya bore witness to the start of the barbaric russian blockade and over the period of weeks witnessed deaths of countless residents. She saw first-hand the horrors russians were bringing with them in the name of liberation. She witnessed as the city of Mariupol was leveled by the invaders, completely and utterly. She suffered personal loss at the hands of the invaders. Ultimately, Natalya and her son were among the 270,000 residents who ran; her husband Vitya didn’t make it out alive.

Although Ms. Dedova lives in Kyiv now, her journalistic sense keeps her mind on Mariupol. The aim of her work is to tell stories of the 270,000 Mariupol survivors who managed to flee from russian bombs, and of the 100,000 who couldn’t; Natalya shares her personal story as part of the former group, her husband’s fate lies with the latter.

Natalya’s dedication comes with a high price of daily remembrances of horrors but she carries on with this gargantuan effort, having written over 600 obituaries as well as 150 stories of survival. With this morbid archive, Ms. Dedova is forcing the world to face each crime perpetrated by the russian federation on Ukrainian soil, russians themselves can’t pretend otherwise.

Yuliia Mahda - ARTIST, POET, MARIUPOL SURVIVOR

Ms. Yuliia Mahda is my next Inside Ukraine WOW Woman; she is an artist and a poet and a proud Ukrainian who comes from the Eastern Ukrainian city of Mariupol. In the time since the full-scale russian invasion began (on February 24, 2022), Mariupol, and it’s initial population of half a million, have undergone the most painful transformation in history: russian invaders wiped the city and tens of thousands of its residents off the face of the earth in a complete, indiscriminate and utter annihilation. For those who tried to flee, russian invaders set up filtration camps (or military checkpoints) where Ukrainians were interrogated, beaten, tortured and psychologically pressured. Ms. Mahda had to go through 17 such checkpoints where russian cowards searched for cell phone footage from Mariupol or looked for chest bruises (telltale signs of body armour) on men. It’s clear that the Mariupol extermination campaign has been carefully planned by executioners in Kremlin because 17 checkpoints ensure that the evidence, that would horrify the world at-large, would be completely erased. Dissenters will never be seen again. Although Yuliia erased her phone, her memories couldn’t be captured by russian cowards, her bravery is in her storytelling, in her art. Yuliia paints and writes to chronicle the pain of 270,000 Ukrainians who fled Mariupol at the start of the invasion; her work speaks for and honours 25,000 civilians, women and children who were killed there.

Images and paintings in this feature bruise and leave a scar, but including them was incredibly important for me because they also serve as a form of justice, a historical record, another burden of proof that will be studied for generations to come; Yuliia’s work will be added to the dossier of evidence for future retributions for the russian federation.

Olena Silna - Survivor, Ukrainian Woman, Vocal Patriot, Nikopol, Ukraine

Imagine: you’re at home, it is Feb 2022, you live in a thriving city, in Europe. It’s early morning, so you’re thinking about an early run? Suddenly, electricity, cell phone reception and water supply become spotty. The airport in your city is destroyed by a missile. You don’t know yet, but you will not get to finish your Valentine’s candy; you don’t know yet, but in the coming weeks you will have to fight for survival. The sounds of explosions fill your ears, from your apartment window you see black clouds above the surrounding neighbourhoods, multiple plumes of smoke appear and you can smell them now. Somewhere in the back of your head it registers that your friends and your child’s friends live in that direction. You then hear a loud bang, feel the apartment vibrate, and as you run, the glass in your windows cracks and shatters. Panic. You run out with your daughter, head for the nearest basement (who has basements in apartment buildings?)

Next, the events unfold as if in a nightmare, but you’re an active participant. Someone informs you about your business, a shop you own, it has been hit by a missile and it is burning. You start to slowly dissociate as you go on a survival autopilot. You are rounded up, along with other mothers and the elderly, because you see, apartment buildings around you crumble, entombing those inside their basements. So local military guys bring you to a deeper basement of a steel factory. Did I mention your city is a bustling 21st Century steel town? Steel factory basement is in fact deeper and you feel buried deep underground. On one hand, you’re safer underground, but soon you, and other women and children, realize that you’re all trapped in a dark, damp, metal sarcophagus. Just shell-shocked people, staring at each other in disbelief. Children are crying and calmed constantly. They can’t run too much because dust has no outlet. You are all breathing in that dust.

Nadiya Vidvazhna - TRANSLATOR, UKRAINIAN, SURVIVOR, MARIUPOL

Every word written by Nadiya, is a glimpse at the experience of a regular woman, a resident of Ukraine, currently living under russian occupation. Nadiya and I could only communicate through the virtual private network (VPN), some days her electricity, and internet, would be shut off. Every western social media platform, including Google, has been blocked by the cowardly aggressor state. Many of her details remain untold (as they may identify her); living under the russian occupation means experiencing suppression of personal freedoms, seeing the spread of fear and facing a real threat of violence through abductions and torture. Dissent in all forms is prosecuted harshly. Activities of defiant Ukrainians are kept under wraps, for obvious reasons, just like the tattoo Nadiya must keep hidden. Everyone is waiting for Ukrainian liberation.

The further a society drifts from truth, the more it will hate those who speak it, the saying goes. Russia hates truth-tellers, especially inside the occupied territories. Outspoken people and their relatives are tortured and beaten. Nadiya is bravely writing from inside Mariupol; out of fear for her, I have insisted on changing all personal details, leaving only her powerful words. Her diary entries are impassionate, candid, unwavering in their honesty. Upon liberation, I will return to this feature, and reveal Nadiya’s name and her beautiful face; I’m praying this moment comes soon. “However much you deny the truth, the truth goes on existing, as it were, behind your back”.

Oleksandra Matviichuk - Human Rights Defender, Nobel Peace Laureate, Kyiv

In February 2022, we all witnessed as russia, under the pretense of liberation and de-Nazification, invaded a sovereign European nation, then began to systematically destroy Ukrainian cities and towns, triggering the largest refugee crisis in Europe, since the Second World War. We listened to the russian aggressor’s abhorrent reasoning for an unprecedented and illegal attempt at a foreign land-grab, watched him cross Ukraine’s border and initiate a destruction of the critical civilian infrastructure (shelling of educational institutions, healthcare facilities such as maternity hospitals, cancer clinics and hospitals for special surgeries, as well as bombings of the water and power supply stations throughout Ukraine). We then checked-in with our loved ones after learning of the murders of the civilian population and the relentless and cruel nightly kamikaze drone attacks of the sleeping Ukrainian families. The news showed us the aftermath of the russian torture and murders of Ukrainians in the de-occupied territories (crimes russians didn’t even bother hiding, due to their self-congratulatory feeling of impunity), imprisonment of Ukrainian defenders, as well as targeting of volunteer paramedics in a series of “double-taps” (hitting a target, waiting a few minutes for first responders to arrive, and then hitting the same spot again for maximum carnage). Yes, russians did this.

Justice for the crimes committed by the russian federation. Is it possible to seek justice for the aggressor, in the time of war, while the aggression is ongoing? Russia is relying on the slowdown of the war news cycle, West’s war fatigue and a pullback of the international support for Ukraine. Although world’s news reports about Ukraine did slow to a trickle, russia’s aggression didn’t. Ukrainians, inside and outside the country, continue to seek justice and accountability! Ms. Oleksandra Martviihuk decided to do something about it.

Ms. Martviichuk, together with her colleagues in the Center for Civil Liberties, is compiling a comprehensive dossier of war crimes and injustices brought on by Putin and his accomplices.

Arina Bilai - Activist, High School Student, Ukraine's Future, Kyiv

This Inside Ukraine story is about Ms. Arina Bilai, a teenager who is extraordinary for many reasons. Ms. Bilai didn’t fit into a typical mold before, nor does she now, as her nation is under attack. Arina always cared deeply about the environment and human rights; she casually mentions four years of activism behind her, which put her at 13 when she began paying attention to her surroundings. As I read Arina’s unbelievably mature perspective on life and surviving in the new world order, I can’t help but think about Ukrainian teenagers, nation’s young adults. Although their core memories will now include the scenes from the russia-brought hell, much more compelling memories were formed around Ukraine’s fierce defiance and collective unity. This generation has a lot to be proud of!

After reading Arina’s words, I am hopeful that humans like her will lead and bring Ukraine into Europe’s fold; properly represent us on the world’s scale. Furthermore, the aggressor state will have to face women like Arina Bilai for generations to come. Arina and her contemporaries will grow up avenging those who perished at the hands of the russian enemy. Future Arinas will ensure that all the unrealized potential of the teenagers and kids russia murdered, their unlived futures will be remembered, their stories told. Ms. Bilai doesn’t mince words, she leaves me hopeful and proud of what’s to come for Ukraine.

With this Inside Ukraine WOW Woman interview, I want to bring you reflections of one incredible human; I am honoured to call her a friend, and a little sister. In truth, I aspire to be like Arina. I’m forever inspired by her unwavering convictions and courage.

Ann Olsen - COMBAT MEDIC, ARMED FORCES OF UKRAINE, MOTHER, UNDISCLOSED LOCATION

April 12, 2022 was a fateful day for Ms. Ann Olsen, a combat medic with the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Her battalion was bravely standing their ground in one of the steel plants in Mariupol (southern Ukrainian city). Russian invaders overwhelmed Ms. Olsen with the heavy shelling and stormed her position. She was captured and taken, along with others on her team. Many brave Ukrainian souls perished that day.

As I read Ann’s words, I couldn’t help but think about time, the most precious of commodities. Russians take Ukrainian lives; they also rob Ukrainians of all the beautiful possibilities and memories time affords. Since the February 24th, 2022 full-scale invasion, Russian attackers stole 462 days of peace from 42 million Ukrainians. From Ann, russians stole 189 days of freedom. From Ann’s daughter, they stole memories with her mom.

Ann, a medic who continues to be a lifeline of her battalion, was held by the russian attackers for many months. Much was endured but she survived and was brought back to Ukraine via a prisoner exchange. Ann immediately returned to serve with the Ukrainian defenders. Below is her story.

I am forever grateful for Ann and thankful to the brave men and women of the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Through sacrificing theirs, Ukrainian defenders and Ann present us with the gift of time. We cannot abandon them, in return. Please read and share Ann’s story; support and feel proud of Ukraine with me.

Lyubov Yankovska - Ukrainian Woman, Tireless Volunteer, Caring Soul, Mykolaiv, Ukraine

My latest WOW Woman is from the southern Ukrainian city of Mykolaiv. “You have to speak with Tyotia (Aunt) Luba”, Ukrainian friend from New York (a Mykolaiv-native) wrote to me. Mykolaiv is one of many Ukrainian cities that heavily bore (and continues suffering from) the russia-brought pain and terror: non-stop bombings, deliberate damage to the city’s infrastructure and educational institutions (including universities, kindergartens and high schools), night-time destruction of civilian homes and apartments (and families inside them), complete electricity shutdowns in February and March, due to the city’s electric grid bombing, destruction of the city’s fresh water supply and the bombed-out humanitarian corridors (done by the russians to deliberately prevent people from escaping). But the city continues to hold on, and in spring of 2022, together with the Armed Forces of Ukraine, Mykolaiv bravely fought and pushed back a full-on russian ground assault, preventing a real threat of occupation.

Aunt Luba never left the city; she persevered through the cold temperatures and was one of the many residents forced to procure fresh water from the nearby river. Aunt Luba didn’t just stay, she was determined to resist the aggressor and do what was required in order to help the army and her fellow Mykolaiv-ites. For the past 26 years Aunt Luba worked at the Kropyvnytskyi City Library, among books, kids, local craft displays and senior knitting circles. Then February 24th came and with it, russian bombs. In an instant, an ordinary library became one of Mykolaiv’s centers of resistance.

Zoryana Mironishena - Hero, People Guardian, Good Samaritan, Irpin, Ukraine

My “Inside Ukraine” WOW Woman was in the middle of Irpin on, and long after, February 24th - the day of the full-scale russian invasion. On the day russians started bombing and entered soveregin Ukraine, Ms. Zoryana Mironishena, a member of Irpin City council, began posting first aid procedures, burn wound treatment steps, proper application of the tourniquet (a device that is used to apply pressure to a limb or extremity in order to stop the flow of blood) and encouraged Irpin residents to clean their weapons. She then informed the residents that the bridge, the main artery in and out of Irpin, has been bombed and destroyed. The City Council then shared Ms. Mironishena’s cell phone number publicly, for the purposes of coordination, spread of the reliable information as well as evacuation updates. It was then Zoryana started receiving over 2000 calls a day from panicked Ukrainians; she logged each call. As such, her new role commenced and Zoryana’s life changed forever.

On Ms. Mironishena’s public Facebook page there are messages from the worried Irpin residents during the first weeks of bombings (and later, occupation): “I am hugging you Zoryanka! Thank you for your resilience. You have such a nice voice. Your messages are a breath of fresh air for me and my children. I am coming out of the basement only with your permission.” - Olesya O. or “Zorya, sending you strength and patience! Take care of yourself!” - Yana I.

Zoryana became a beacon of hope for many civilians. She also became a target for the russian military, who taunted and threated her with torture (she has text messages to prove this). Russians, the fifth largest military in the world, taunted and threatened a woman (a civil servant, a PR / marketing specialist and a humanitarian volunteer) with torture. Just think about the state of their affairs -pathetic.

"Adversity does not build character, it reveals it,” wrote James Lane Allen. After Zoryana told me that she paid no attention to the russian threats, and continued doing what she needed to do - helping Irpin residents - she thus revealed and symbolized the fearless character of the entire nation!

ANNA OKARSKA - MILITARY PARAMEDIC, HEAD OF A MEDICAL FRONT LINE UNIT, UNDISCLOSED LOCATION

The entire Okarski family has been training and preparing for February 24th, 2022 - the day the sovereign nation of Ukraine was invaded by the russian enemry. The Okarskis are just “built different”, made of different DNA than most of us. From what I’ve witnessed and learned so far, they are the family with the nerves of steel and the hearts of gold. When the great grandfather, grand-dad, father and also the WOW Woman mother have all risked their lives for their nation, it’s no surprise that the youngest boy of 14 is serious, fearless and determined to do the same.

Mr. Eldar Okarski (Ельдар Окарський) is a student at the Heroes of Kruty Lviv State Lyceum, named after the heroism displayed by the Ukrainian youth at the Battle of Kruty; it is regarded as the best preparatory military educational institution in Ukraine. Eldar, who is in his second year of training, has dreamt of being a military surgeon since kindergarten, so Lyceum will serve as the first step toward achieving that goal. He also proudly talks about his mom, my Inside Ukraine WOW Woman Anna Okarska, whose career in saving lives helped Eldar envision his own future:

“My whole family has a military background”, says Eldar, “My great-grandpa was a medic, my father and grand-dad were sappers (a sapper is a combat engineer who performs a wide variety of duties; including bridge-building, laying or clearing minefields, demolitions, road and airfield construction and repair). My mother is a paramedic, a volunteer with the Ukrainian Hospitallers Medical Battalion, helps save Ukrainian lives daily.” On who inspires him: “Anna Okarska, my mom. My mom is the role model for me; how she built her career, and a (personal) price she paid to achieve her goals. It’s an honour for me to be able to learn from her mistakes. I understand how important her role is and I want to be like her.”

Dasha Otmorozova - DEFENDER, ARMED FORCES OF UKRAINE, RACING CHAMPION, ATHLETE, UNDISCLOSED LOCATION

Many have asked me about the difference between Ukrainian and russian psyche, thoughts about the invasion, and how this war is playing out in people’s minds. I myself learned a lot from the Ukrainian response to the cruel and senseless acts of russian terror. I understood much about my own people; and I now clearly see the difference in mentality of the aggressor’s nation. After speaking with the countless Ukrainian refugees and those heroic women inside Ukraine, I realized two important distinctions that give me hope for this and future generations of Ukrainians: our humanity and our unity.

Our Inside Ukraine WOW Woman feature is on Ms. Dasha Otmorozova, a real life example of the hope I harbor for our nation. I learned about Dasha from an army photographer, the WOW Woman Iryna iSky’s Instagram page. Through the intense imagery on the IG page, one woman stood out in her fortitude and seemed to have a beautiful spirit as well as a dignified presence. I was correct in my estimation of Ms. Otomorozova. Dasha is as fierce and tough as she is caring and beautiful. Fighting alongside men on the front cannot be easy, it’s probably unfathomable for most of us; yet Dasha’s words unite all the volunteers, men and women, who are serving in the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Through her answers, Dasha shines light on their collective humanity. I wish for nothing more than for Dasha to return safely home, to her family.

Ludmila Tereschenko - Chemist, Engineer, Boss, Patriot, Bila Tserkva

Words of introduction for this Inside Ukraine feature come from Mr. Serhii Lukianchuk, who proudly handed over the leadership of two manufacturing factories to our Inside Ukraine WOW Woman, Ms. Ludmila Petrivna Tereschenko. As Ukraine’s national sovereignty was challenged by the russian invader on February 24th, 2022, Mr. Lukianchuk immediately volunteered to join the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

Serhii and Ludmila are coworkers at the Trivium Packaging Company. Before the war, they were just two people, working in an international company, focused on the production and supply of metal packaging for a variety of industries in Ukraine and Europe. After the invasion, these Ukrainians became superheroes; both stepping up in different ways to keep fighting and resisting, even amid bombs and destruction. Mr. Lukianchuk defends his Homeland and Mr. Tereschenko ensures factories’ success, workers’ job security and most importantly, nation’s uninterrupted supply of metal canned products. Ludmila is literally keeping the country fed.

This is the first time Ms. Tereschenko will be reading Serhii Lukianchuk’s words of appreciation, in this nomination for WOW Woman.

Anastasia Tykha - FEARLESS ANIMAL RESCUER, NO ONE LEFT BEHIND, IRPIN

Over the month of March, 2022, russian troops attempted to advance onto Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, as part of the full-scale, multi-city invasion. They failed. The Armed Forces of Ukraine pushed back and russians retreated; but not before revealing their true nature. Towns that took the brunt of the fighting were Bucha and Irpin.

This Inside Ukraine story is about a woman from Irpin who, upon feeling explosions hit her neighborhood, braved the freezing river crossing; but she didn’t cross the Irpin River alone. She brought a pack of 19 dogs in the various stages of disability and mobility. This story is about a 20-year old Ms. Anastasia Tykha. Ms. Tykha passionately cares for and attempts to rehabilitate wounded animals in her hospice/shelter called “House for Special Tails”.

Like most Ukrainian people at the moment, her patients are wounded and traumatized; and exactly like Ukrainians, her little creatures are surviving and bravely fighting for their lives. Russia’s attacks have enormously impacted and continue terrorizing Ukraine’s four-legged creatures. Since the war started, animals and pets get abandoned during panic of bombings, some escape in terror, are injured alongside their owners, or hit by the flying shrapnel.

Today, Anastasia continues to passionately care for the wounded, traumatized and dismembered dogs (and a few cats). She describes her home as a “respite-shelter for dogs with physical disabilities and mental characteristics.”

I am proud to highlight Anastasia, who represents the multi-dimensionality of a pure Ukrainian heart - caring for all beings, big and small. Nemo Resideo is Latin for: “Leave no one behind”. Anastasia truly practices this motto in real life and I couldn’t be more proud to know her.

Olha Zaitseva - SEARCH, RESCUE, FRONT LINE WAR VOLUNTEER, FIRST AID, SLOVYANSK, DONETSK

How to encourage and re-assure someone who, on a daily basis, risks her life saving everyday Ukrainians from russian bombs, russian shelling and russia-perpetrated terror?

Ms. Olha Zaitseva is the kind of person you’re instantly drawn to; you know the kind I mean. You want to chat to her while in line for the movie tickets, share her laughter as she passes you on the street, fight the urge to wave to her across a New York subway platform. It’s her aura of positivity and self-assurance. Olha has a presence of a mini (because she seems petite) warrior; her kind smile calms instantly. It’s apparent, from the images she sent me, that Olha doesn’t shy away from diving in, connecting with people and immediately securing their trust.

Even through our limited war-time communication, I’ve been touched by Ms. Zaitseva’s kindness and compassion; pulled in a million different directions, Olha finds a moment to send a kind word about my relatives in Zaporizhzhia (a city in the East of Ukraine, currently suffering from heavy russian bombing).

Dedication to the noble cause comes at a high personal price: time away from her son and facing personal danger. Olha misses her sisters, misses skiing, the mountains and her career as an Economist. Where Olha goes, even war reporters won’t travel.

Olha is a hero because every day she puts on a brave face. Olha is a hero because by risking her life daily, she reminds every Ukrainian that our freedom is precious. Olha is my hero because by choosing this path voluntarily, she is risking everything to help others.

Vita Kushnerevych - Couture Dressmaker, Army Seamstress, Kharkiv

At the end of 2021, Ms. Vita Kushnerevych’s plate was full: weddings, proms and the holiday party season was in full swing. Ms. Kushnerevych, a master craftswoman dressmaker, kindly accommodated all bridal requests and whims.

Then, on February 24th, 2022, russia started bombing peaceful Ukraine. Strikes against all major cities (including Kharkiv) began at 5.07 a.m.; in that instant, destinies and glimmers of future changed for every single Ukrainian. Vita, and all the brides and students she dressed had to flee for city’s bomb shelters, grooms and new husbands headed for the front. The war in Europe began, with one aggressor country advancing on its neighbour.

Life in Kharkiv became hell in 2022, and a year later russians continue ravaging Ukrainian cities with the indiscriminate bombings and occupation. The distance from Kharkiv to the russian border is about 40 kilometers, or 25 miles. Russians took advantage of that distance, by bombing and destroying infrastructure, hitting residential buildings and leveling schools and hospitals. People in Kharkiv have been killed in their homes and in the streets, in the playgrounds and in the cemeteries, while queueing for humanitarian aid, or shopping for food and medicine.

Vita Kushnerevych’s attention to detail and skilled hands found a new purpose, in this new reality. Vita started creating functional, high-quality camouflage protective wear for the army, for Ukraine’s defenders and for territorial defense volunteers. Vita now works under the oil lamps, when russians blow out power grids, she works during the day next to the taped up windows, as she stitches and re-stitches her pieces made with care and precision.

Iryna iSKY - PHOTOGRAPHER, ARMED FORCES OF UKRAINE, CREATOR, UNDISCLOSED LOCATION

As I lie with my newborn on my chest, skin-to-skin time, she is content and listening to my heart beat. She hears my elevated heart rate because I’m writing about the war in my country, but that is nothing compared to the sound the heart makes as it leaps from mother’s chest as she saves her child from the falling russian bombs.

I type this intro about the brave and beautiful Iryna, who has opened up about her desire for a child, writing so candidly about what the war took from her. I think about all the women inside Ukraine now: the entire generation of current and mothers-to-be; their hopes, their dreams and worries about bodies doing what they are supposed to, creating and sustaining life under extreme conditions of stress and war. I get angry, so angry. But I am also proud of Ukrainian women. Iryna could not have put it better: “Ukrainian women, collectively serve as the incredible stream of powerful energy; they create a protective shield for the State. When victory is achieved, women will shed their armor, literally and figuratively, and embody joy again.”

Daria PavlyuK - ILLUSTRATOR, ART TEACHER, Resistor, RIVNE

An entire generation of Ukrainians has been affected by the unprovoked russian aggression. This unjust war was initiated by our “supposed brothers”, whose true face was uncovered with the reports of the brutal atrocities carried out in the de-occupied territories, with each bomb that hit unarmed civilians, every destroyed home and the buried in its rubble mothers and children. “Brotherly love” didn’t end there, as russians came out in troves, for a hateful field day, commenting on social media posts depicting Ukrainian suffering. Brothers no more.

Ukrainian people seem to have different ways of dealing with the pain; one common theme women describe, in the “Inside Ukraine” series, is the ability to get acclimated to and cope with many (oftentimes difficult) stressors of the war. Most of us, on the outside, have never imagined waking up to such severe uncertainty, living with the multi-hour air raid sirens, receiving daily reports of the perished family members or killed college friends. The human and emotional wreck caused by the russian federation on Ukrainian soil is maddening and infuriating.

One way to understand and try to imagine the feelings of those on the inside, for me personally, has been to really look at the art produced by the Ukrainian creators. It is heart-wrenching to scroll through the artists’ themes as they change from the time/days/hours before Feb 24th, 2022 and the day and months following the invasion. Such is the unprecedented way this war has been recorded by entire Ukrainian population, in real time. One of the cathartic, for me, places on the internet has been with the works of Ms. Daria Pavlyuk. She proves that not only storytelling is a form of justice, but so is creating.

Natalia Sorokina - EDUCATOR, PROFESSOR, ACADEMIC, DNIPRO

Since russia attacked sovereign Ukraine, I’ve witnessed every-day Ukrainians showing determination and resilience, fighting the aggressor with all their might. This “Inside Ukraine” feature is about Ms. Natalia Sorokina, a University professor and a WOW Woman. Ms. Sorokina teaches at the Dnipro Polytechnic, one of the oldest universities in Ukraine’s third largest city. Natalia is resisting the russian aggressor by providing ammunition for the next generation of Ukrainians; her Facebook is filled with posts encouraging Ukrainian students to present at the various scientific conferences and to remember to apply for upcoming scholarships. By staying and teaching in Ukraine, Natalia is demonstrating resistance and pushing young scholars to stay on the academic track, publish and continue applying for research grants. How incredible, as the war rages on, Ukrainians are determined to keep learning and pushing onward.

Many folks around the world are bewildered at how Ukrainians are able to function under stress, live in uncertainty and keep hope alive under a constant threat of russian terror. Those who expected Ukrainians to fold arms and surrender were left in shock and awe. When I take in collective Ukrainian resistance, one of the ways the spirit of the nation is apparent is through these calls for student participation; Professor Sorokina and her young Ukrainian scholars are eager to keep striving and learning, one scientific submission at a time.

Ukrainians will persevere! And I am proud to feature Ukrainian stories of defiance and resistance, in whatever shape or form.

Naya Novak - UKRAINIAN ARMED FORCES SUPPLYING VOLUNTEER, PR PROFESSIONAL, PATRIOT, KYIV

The goings on inside Ukraine right now, are nothing short of extraordinary. Ukrainians have never been more tired and angry, yet they remain united in channeling that anger into a collective push-back against a common enemy - the Russian Federation. Starting in 2022 (but truly in 2014 with Crimea), and continuing into today, Russians are grabbing Ukrainian land and indiscriminately killing, torturing an raping innocent Ukrainians, thus propagating one of the worst atrocities Europe has seen since the Second World War. Most Ukrainians have been living in limbo since February 24th, 2022; “living”, as an active verb, has been replaced with surviving, struggling and persevering.

Lies and propaganda from RF and its sympathizers have shown us, in the free world, the real power of the misinformation campaigns. These are the reasons I find it especially important to write and highlight individual humans behind Ukrainian resistance. These are the WOW Women on the ground, in Ukraine, who are leading and helping in war and other efforts. I started the “Inside Ukraine” WOW Woman series in order to show the world, with pride, what my homeland is capable of.

So, without further ado, please allow me to give you a glimpse into Ukraine’s future. I would like to shine a spotlight on Ms. Naya Novak, a self-labelled “Ukrainian Armed Forces Supplying Volunteer”. Volunteer is a term, as I found out from Naya, which these days refers to anyone helping the homeland win the war. Whenever someone is volunteering in Ukraine, you can bet they are either fundraising for the Defense Forces or helping in a humanitarian sphere; Naya is of the former kind. Because Naya does not post the link to her the page with her fundraising details, and I had to search for it in order to donate, I’ll post the link here, right in the intro, and save you the trouble later.