Yuliia

Yuliia’s family joined the Children of Heroes Charity Fund after the death of her father, who had been defending Ukraine since 2014. He was a true patriot, devoted to his homeland, and he passed this love on to his children. Today, Yuliia lives in Ukraine with her mother and younger sister – in the country their father cherished so deeply.

The war entered Yuliia’s life when she was only seven years old. She had just started the second grade when her dad packed his things and went to the front. From that moment on, the war taught her to live without him – waiting long months for their meetings and treasuring them, while at the same time not getting used to his presence at home, knowing he would soon leave again. As Yuliia grew older, she learned to endure, because she understood that people who return from war are never the same. The full-scale invasion brought new lessons – resilience and the ability to adapt even in the hardest circumstances.

Yuliia’s father was the center of her world. She learned from him and wanted to be like him in everything. He passed on his love for books, films, and even games. He also wrote poetry, and from the second grade Yuliia tried to follow his example. Over time, poetry became her own discovery, and it remains with her to this day. She says: “My father was an incredible person. I am very proud of him. I have never met anyone like him and probably never will. He was unique, and I am truly happy that I inherited the best of him.”

Since childhood, Yuliia had dreamed of becoming an actress – and over the years, she only grew more certain that this was her true calling. Today, she studies her chosen specialty at university, takes part in student productions, and gains experience in theater. All of this became possible thanks to her mother’s support and the inspiration her father left behind.

Another source of strength for Yuliia has been the Children of Heroes Charity Fund. There she found friends who share a similar pain and realized she was not alone in her grief. The gifts and attention she received were especially meaningful, as they were a sign of care from people who stood by her.

Yuliia believes: “Time heals. You have to pursue what you dream about. After all, those we have lost would want to see our success. We are the family and descendants of the strongest people in the world.”