Vladislav Pogribnyak, a participant in the regional “Young Person of the Year – 2026” competition in the “Unbreakable Will” category
Vladyslav Pohribniak is a defender of Ukraine whose life embodies resilience, courage, and unwavering determination.
He served in the Armed Forces from 2016 and defended Mariupol during the full-scale Russian invasion. Following the order to cease the city's defense in May 2022, he was captured and spent more than three years in Russian captivity. Despite enduring immense hardship, he never lost hope, dignity, or faith in returning home.
Released during a prisoner exchange in May 2025, Vladyslav completed rehabilitation and continued serving at one of the Territorial Recruitment and Social Support Centers of Donetsk Region. Today, he works as an auto mechanic, fulfilling his lifelong passion for repairing vehicles, while actively volunteering with the charitable foundation “Together for Ukraine.”
He regularly delivers food, hygiene supplies, and other essential aid to Ukrainian defenders on the Donetsk, Dnipropetrovsk, and Kharkiv fronts.
His story is one of extraordinary perseverance and strength of character. Having overcome the hardships of war and captivity, Vladyslav continues to build a new life, support Ukraine's defenders, and inspire others through his example. He proves that true resilience lies not only in surviving adversity but also in finding the strength to move forward, help others, and contribute to the future of a free and independent Ukraine.