Natalia Nikolaeva – participant in the 2025 regional competition “Woman of Donetsk Region,” nominated in the category “Creator of Change and Opportunities”
The war in Ukraine has brought new heroines to the forefront – women who, despite difficulties, find the strength to act, support, and inspire others. Among them is Natalia Nikolaeva, a native of the village of Andriivka in Donetsk region, a teacher by profession, who combines educational work with active volunteering.
She has devoted most of her professional career to the system of vocational and technical education and vocational and technical education in industry. In 2024, she began a new stage in her career at a secondary school. Today, Natalia works as a social educator and teaches computer science, mathematics, entrepreneurship, and financial literacy at Kurakhiv Secondary School No. 5. Despite her lack of previous experience in this field, she quickly gained the trust of her students and focused on social and patriotic education, helping children develop self-confidence, teamwork skills, and the ability to make responsible decisions.
Volunteering is an equally important part of Natalia's life. While her husband defends the country on the front lines, she holds down the fort: she makes trench candles, collects and sends aid to the military, cooperates with foundations, and organizes and successfully completes fundraising campaigns to purchase necessary equipment for the defenders.
Her words, “I cannot stand aside,” have become her guiding principle. She demonstrates that the true calling of a teacher is not only to teach but also to inspire by example, and that of a volunteer is to be a source of support where it is most needed. Her activities prove that even in the most difficult moments, it is possible to be a source of light for children, colleagues, the community, and the country.
The detailed story of the contest participant can be found at: https://surl.li/tooopo
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