Participant in the regional “Young Person of the Year – 2026” competition “Knowledge Leaders” category: Tetiana Zhidkova
Tetiana Zhidkova was born in the village of Rozdolivka, in the Soledar community of the Bakhmut district. She began her athletic career in powerlifting, where she eventually met the standards for the title of Master of Sports of Ukraine. Until 2020, she trained in Soledar, representing the “Artemsil” sports club, and later moved to Kramatorsk to continue her training.
Tetyana has been competing on the international stage as a member of the Ukrainian national team for over five years. Her achievements include multiple titles as champion and record-holder of the Donetsk region, champion of Ukraine, as well as medalist and champion at the European and World Championships in various weight classes. Specifically, in 2025, she won the title of European powerlifting champion, and in 2026, she took silver at the Ukrainian Championships in Chernivtsi and a bronze medal at the European Championships in the Czech Republic.
Due to the full-scale invasion, the athlete was forced to relocate. She currently lives and trains in Lviv. Despite her change of residence, Tetiana Zhidkova continues to officially represent the Donetsk region at all national and international competitions. Through her activities, she promotes weightlifting and upholds the sporting reputation of her native region.