On December 4, on the eve of Ukrainian Armed Forces Day, an important meeting between schoolchildren from Donetsk region and military personnel took place as part of the "Hear the Hero" project. The event was organized by Novogrodivka MBA with the support of the Donetsk Regional State Administration.
The meeting was attended by Artur Nasibyan, head of the Donetsk Regional State Administration's Department for Veterans' Affairs, Lilia Zolkina, head of the Donetsk Regional State Administration's Department for Family, Youth, and Mass Events of National-Patriotic Education, Olga Sidorova, deputy mayor of Novogrodivka, educators, and active young people from the region.
The main guest of the event was Serhiy Tsekhotsky, head of the communications department of the 59th separate motorized infantry brigade named after Yakov Gandzyuk. His presence provided a unique opportunity for teenagers to hear real-life stories about military service, meet someone who defends Ukraine's freedom on a daily basis, and ask questions that are of particular concern to young people.
Around 500 students from various communities in the Donetsk region took part in the event. This meeting reaffirms that dialogue between young people and the military is important and necessary.
The students were really into hearing about Serhii Tsekhotskyi's experiences: they asked questions, listened closely to his answers, and reacted genuinely to the stories he shared with openness and humanity. In addition to his stories, Serhii gave the young people a lot of important advice: he emphasized the need to listen to adults, study hard, and love their homeland. This format of live communication helps to shape worldviews, understanding of the realities of war, and respect for those who stand guard over the state every day.
"A year has passed since this initiative began in our community. We started our journey with our first meeting with Serhiy Tsekhotsky, and I am very pleased that he is with us again today. It is a great honor and a great value. It is a symbol: the project does not just exist — it is developing, uniting us, and continuing its important mission," said Olga Sidorova.
We sincerely thank Serhiy Tsekhotsky for his service, courage, compassion, and the time he has devoted to the youth of Donetsk Oblast.
The Hear the Hero project continues to unite generations, inspire, and affirm a simple truth: Ukraine's freedom is defended by people who need to be talked about and listened to.