Gift a glimpse of normalcy to Ukrainian children

This summer, I officially turn over the page to my adulthood. Turning 21 means various things to me - it's a reflection of my wild young years and a big step towards figuring out my future. Whilst many things remain uncertain, there is an undeniable constant amidst the chaos: Ukraine, my home, my land, my roots, and my soul.

Until the age of 8, I had the fortunate opportunity to grow up in Ukraine. Living near Kyiv, my days were filled with wandering through the enchanting woods near my house, strolling the beautiful historic streets of Podil, and learning lyrical Ukrainian poems at school.

Although I did not appreciate it enough at the time, my country has always captivated a huge part of my heart. My childhood was a happy one. Yet, the world today looks much different.

Since February 2022, millions of Ukrainian children have been robbed of their childhood through the loss of parents, homes, friends, schools, and in many cases, even their own lives. Their 'normal' has come to consist of sleeping in shelters, evenings without electricity and a constant threat that tomorrow may never come.

To put it into perspective:

As a Ukrainian, an adult, and simply a human being, I must help these children. Despite not being able to completely right this evil wrong, I want to make the lives of affected children even if just a tiny bit better. The gifts they receive may seem ordinary to us, but to them, they are the best surprise and a glimpse of hope.

For my birthday, I am asking you to help me gift a glimpse of normalcy to children who reside in some of Ukraine's most destroyed and long-abandoned cities.

Together, we can provide every child in these communities with a sense of what childhood should feel like.

I am partnering with the incredible Charity "Khaustov", which provides humanitarian aid to many regions in Ukraine. Their projects range from civilian evacuations to the procurement of crucial aid supplies. This is not just support, it is bravery on a scale that makes a true difference in hundreds of Ukrainian lives.