Ukrainian history is full of women whose strength, talent, and courage shaped our culture and national identity. However, their achievements often remain in the shadows. But we certainly cannot allow them to be forgotten.
The “Stories of Strong Women” project by the NGO “PRO WOMEN UA” aims to bring these heroines back into our present, show their key role in the development of society, and remind us of their contribution to the formation of Ukraine. These are not just stories about the past — they are reminders of how important women’s voices are in the struggle for our freedom, creativity, and independence. Each story reveals a power that inspires us to act today.
The new episodes of the podcast, like the previous ones, introduce us to outstanding Ukrainian women from different parts of the country, where they created, developed, and realized themselves at a time when it was extremely difficult.
Sofia Rusova was a woman who not only dreamed of a free, educated, and conscious nation, but also worked every day to make it a reality. She was the founder of the first Ukrainian kindergartens, a textbook developer, an initiator of the women’s movement, and a fighter against Russification. Her life is a story of challenges, courageous decisions, and faith in the power of knowledge. Arrests, persecution, tragic losses, and forced emigration could not stop her desire to create a better future for Ukraine.
Milena Rudnytska was the first to speak out on the international stage about the Holodomor as genocide of the Ukrainian people, calling on the world community to take action. Her life story is one of intellect, courage, and unwavering faith in the ideals of democracy and justice. Her leadership of the Union of Ukrainian Women, her role as a member of the Polish Sejm, her active work in international organizations, and her political struggle made Milena a symbol of female leadership and resilience.
Natalia Polonska-Vasilenko was not only an outstanding historian, archaeologist, and educator, but also the first woman to receive a doctorate in history in Ukraine. She debunked the myth of “Novorossiya” and authored the two-volume History of Ukraine, which is still used by students today. Despite all the obstacles—repression, wars, the loss of her home and library—Natalia remained faithful to her cause. Her work and legacy became an important part of the formation of Ukrainian identity, and she herself became a symbol of female strength, education, and devotion to her homeland.
Kharityna Pekarchuk not only held the front lines, but also rescued the wounded as a nurse, organizing medical trains. She fought in the army of the Ukrainian People’s Republic, pretending to be a man, became a soldier with the pseudonym “Stepan Knychenko” and was awarded the Iron Cross for the First Winter Campaign. Her path was full of trials: escape from the Bolsheviks, heavy fighting, exile to Poland, life in poverty, and even arrest by the Gestapo during World War II. Despite everything, this Crimean Ukrainian of Polish origin dedicated her life to the struggle for Ukraine, leaving behind an example of fortitude and love for her homeland.
Oksana Meshko was a co-founder of the Ukrainian Helsinki Group, a legend of the dissident movement who stood up for repressed Ukrainians and did not break even in Stalin’s camps. Her dream was a free Ukraine, for which she fought all her life. At the age of 76, she was sent into exile, but she returned. Her tireless struggle continued until her last breath in 1991, leaving behind an example of indomitability and love for her homeland.
These are stories of Ukrainian women who demonstrate resilience and strength of spirit, inspiring and captivating us. They are an example for current and future generations. We should be proud of them, preserve their legacy, and tell their stories.
The podcast “Stories of Strong Women” by the NGO “PRO WOMEN UA” aims to restore these women to their rightful place in the national memory, revealing their destinies and struggles to all who seek to know the truth and be inspired by their strength of spirit.
The project is implemented with the support of the Ukrainian Women’s Fund. PRO WOMEN UA is responsible for the content of the information. The information presented in the video does not always reflect the views of the UWF.