A tradition of kindness that inspires faith in tomorrow: the Rinat Akhmetov Foundation сelebrates сhildren in Kyiv

On December 23, Kyiv hosted a heartwarming celebration for children as part of the traditional New Year’s campaign by the Rinat Akhmetov to Children program. Children from across Ukraine came together for this special event. For 24 years, this initiative has been a symbol of care and support, bringing warmth, joy, and hope for a brighter future.

The event’s host, Olexii Sukhanov, actor and ambassador of the Rinat Akhmetov Foundation, emphasized its significance:
“This campaign is a beacon of hope and faith in the future. Over its history, more than 1.2 million children have taken part. That’s an extraordinary number of young Ukrainians who’ve received care, attention, and the confidence to believe in themselves.”

The event spotlighted inspiring stories of children whose lives were transformed by the Foundation:

•    Tymofii successfully underwent rehabilitation after a severe injury and now trains with FC Shakhtar Stalevi.
•    Arsen, who lost his father, discovered his talent and now creates motivational videos for peers as part of the Rinat Akhmetov to Children. Your Superpower project.
•   Sofia, a survivor of occupation, found inspiration through the Rinat Akhmetov to Children.Your Superprofession project and now dreams of becoming a journalist.

These stories illustrate how the Rinat Akhmetov to Children program helps children overcome challenges, discover their potential, and build a better future.

A major highlight of the Rinat Akhmetov to Children program in 2024 was the essay competition “1,000 Days of War: My Journey,” open to students and teachers across Ukraine. This year, over 4,000 essays were submitted. Participants shared their experiences of pain and loss, while also showcasing incredible resilience and hope. The most compelling essays were added to the “Museum of Civilian Voices” collection by the Rinat Akhmetov Foundation.

Svitlana Mystiuk, Head of the Youth Talent Development Department at the Institute for Modernization of Educational Content, Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine, highlighted the competition’s importance:

“This essay competition, launched by the Rinat Akhmetov Foundation four years ago, provides a vital platform for expressing thoughts, emotions, and experiences. The theme this year, ‘1,000 Days of War,’ reflects the deeply personal journeys people have endured during these challenging times. The participants—both children and adults—demonstrated remarkable courage in sharing their stories, allowing others to gain insight into their experiences. These stories will now contribute to Ukraine’s modern history, which we are collectively shaping.”

Winners of the competition were recognized with certificates and valuable prizes. The celebration continued with creative workshops, fun activities, dancing, and socializing, capped off with festive gifts for all participants.

The Rinat Akhmetov to Children program encompasses initiatives that provide essential support to children whose lives have been upended by war. Through this program, children receive medical treatment, hearing aids, psychological and physical rehabilitation, and opportunities to pursue their dreams. Over the years, more than 5 million children have benefited from the Foundation’s work.

The New Year’s campaign is a cornerstone of the Rinat Akhmetov to Children program, remaining a cherished tradition for 24 years. Each year, the Foundation organizes celebrations for children from orphanages, family-type homes, and displaced families, spreading joy across the country.

Rinat Akhmetov to Children. Help that gives tomorrow.