Participant in the regional contest “Young Person of the Year – 2026” “Called to Save” category: Artem Tishchenko
Artem Tishchenko’s childhood dream of becoming a rescuer has grown into his life’s work. He faced his first baptism by fire while still a cadet in July 2014 in his hometown of Maryinka. Since then, his professional path has been a daily choice to be where the going is toughest.
Artem was serving as the head of the 96th Fire and Rescue Unit in Krasnohorivka when full-scale war broke out. Amid constant shelling and a lack of water, his unit fought fires, evacuated civilians, and delivered water to residents of frontline towns. A true test came on June 27, 2022, when, following a “Grad” rocket strike, the unit extinguished more than 15 fires simultaneously.
For his courage and for saving people’s lives, Artem Tishchenko was awarded the “For Courage in an Emergency” and “Badge of Honor” medals, the “Honor and Glory” cross, and the “East” Operational-Tactical Group distinction.
Today, he leads the 18th Fire and Rescue Unit in Dnipro, continuing to defend Ukraine’s security front. His story is an example of resilience, courage, and dedication to serving others.