From March 9 to 15, 2026, as part of the national project “Side by Side: United Communities,” residents of the Soledar and Drohobych communities joined a joint creative initiative dedicated to honoring the creative legacy of Taras Shevchenko and promoting the Ukrainian language in the modern digital space.
A total of 93 creative works, both individual and collective, were submitted to the online creative marathon “#Shevchenko_Unites_2026.” Overall, more than 100 participants took part in the marathon: children, youth, educators, and concerned community members. Each of them demonstrated a sincere love for Ukrainian culture, a creative approach, and their own interpretation of the poet’s works.
Participants presented their works in various creative formats:
- Videos of readings of their favorite poems by T. G. Shevchenko.
- Creative readings with musical accompaniment or theatrical elements.
- Photos featuring “Kobzar” as a symbol of the Ukrainian people’s spiritual heritage.
- Reels/Shorts videos titled “Shevchenko Today” — a reinterpretation of the poet’s works in a contemporary context.
- Original essays on the significance of Taras Shevchenko’s work.
- Artworks, illustrations, and digital art dedicated to the poet.
- Interpretations of Taras Shevchenko’s quotes in the contemporary social and cultural context.
Every participant in the marathon demonstrated creativity, sincerity, and respect for the Ukrainian language. It is thanks to such initiatives that we feel Taras Shevchenko’s legacy remains relevant, alive, and unites Ukrainians regardless of distance.
We sincerely thank all participants for their enthusiasm, inspiration, and love for Ukrainian culture!
Based on materials from the Soledar City Military Administration