Yulia Ponomarenko, a participant in the regional “Young Person of the Year – 2026” contest in the “Unbreakable Will” category
Yulia Ponomarenko was born in Avdiivka - a city that has become a symbol of the Ukrainian people’s resilience. It was here that her character, resilience, and uncompromising dedication to Ukraine took shape.
She began her professional career in law enforcement in 2013 as an investigator. With the onset of Russian aggression in 2014, her service took on a new meaning: maintaining law and order, assisting civilians, and documenting war crimes. In January 2017, she was granted combatant status, and for her courage and dedication, she was awarded the Presidential Distinction “For Participation in the Anti-Terrorist Operation.”
With the start of the full-scale invasion, Yulia continued to perform her duties in Avdiivka, working under constant shelling. Documenting war crimes became her personal fight for justice, and every piece of evidence she gathered contributed to bringing the perpetrators to justice. For her resilience, professionalism, and dedication to her oath, she was awarded the Presidential Distinction “For the Defense of Ukraine.”
Today, Yulia Ponomarenko continues her service on the legal front, using her professional experience to strengthen the rule of law, protect citizens’ rights, and safeguard the interests of the Ukrainian state.