“I miss Peace most.
The ache comes not just from the absence of tranquility but from the uncertainty shrouding its return. At 18, a decade of my life has been entrenched in the shadows of war. I yearn for the familiar warmth of Odessa's summer, the electric energy of football matches at Donetsk Arena, and the spontaneous trips to visit friends in Kharkiv. I crave the feeling of safety that once accompanied my teenage years in Kyiv.”
~ Kristina Shevchuk
Leaving Ukraine at 17 was a decision shaped by the harsh reality of war. It was a time filled with uncertainty and fear, a chapter in my life marked by difficult choices and heartfelt goodbyes. The echoes of conflict lingered in the air, pushing me to seek safety and peace beyond familiar borders. Despite the challenges, I carried the resilience of youth and the hope for a brighter tomorrow. The memories of my homeland, though tinged with sorrow, remain a source of strength and inspiration as I navigate the path ahead.
~ Viktoria Shovt