Participant of the Regional Competition "Young Person of the Year – 2025" in the Nomination "Unconquered: The Spirit and Valor of the Donetsk Region" Marharyta Dovzhok
Although a civilian psychologist by education, Marharyta Dovzhok's true calling proved to be much deeper. At just 20 years old, she was already a veteran of the war, a testament to her early but conscious choice to serve.
Inspired by films about strong, brave, and confident women defending their country, Marharyta’s heart was captured by the romance of military life. At 19, in 2016, she joined the Armed Forces of Ukraine. Her parents were against it, but she was unstoppable. She quickly learned that military life was not a movie; it was a harsh reality of life and death, blood, and injuries. But it was there she found her resilience, as service is something you get used to, and it makes you stronger.
Today, Marharyta is an officer in the civil-military cooperation department. Her work is not on the front lines but is no less critical. She evacuates civilians, searches for the missing, supports the families of the fallen, and accompanies wounded service members. She knows that sometimes the hardest part isn't the bullets, but a conversation with a mother still waiting for her son. Her small comfort is her dog, Elsa, who is always by her side and even has her own military uniform.
The army brought Marharyta not only the pain of loss but also true friends and a loving husband, who is also a soldier. She cannot imagine herself in any other role, yet she remains a strong woman in her military role.
Marharyta’s dream is for Ukrainians to remember those who have returned from the war more often. She emphasizes that there will be more veterans struggling to adapt to civilian life, and they deserve our support, warmth, and remembrance more than anyone else.
Marharyta embodies an unbreakable spirit, dedication, and love for her country. Her life is the story of a young girl, inspired by dreams, who became a true hero, continuing the fight every day by helping those in need. Her words are not just a plea but a mission to remind everyone of the invaluable price of Victory.