Ivan Lebid, a veteran of the 24th Separate Mechanized Brigade named after King Danylo and a native of Siversk in the Donetsk region, has become a tram driver in Lviv. After suffering a serious injury on the front lines and having his leg amputated, he underwent rehabilitation, completed his training, and passed his practical exam.
His story is told by Espreso.Zakhid.
Ever since childhood, Ivan had been interested in heavy machinery. He first studied at the Lysychansk Pedagogical College, majoring in “Elementary Education,” and later earned a certification as an electrician and electric welder at the Soledar Vocational Lyceum.
After the full-scale invasion began, Ivan moved from the Donetsk region to western Ukraine. In early 2024, he joined the military.
Ivan Lebid served as a grenadier and infantryman in the Donetsk sector, specifically near Toretsk and Chasovyi Yar. In May 2025, while carrying out a combat mission, he sustained mine-blast injuries to both legs. After numerous surgeries and rehabilitation, the veteran decided to return to an active life and find a job he could perform with a prosthesis.
He chose to become a tram driver and enrolled in the “Lvivelektrotrans” driving school. During his training, he mastered the theory and practical skills of operating a manually controlled tram.
After passing the exam, the veteran will undergo an internship with passengers, and subsequently begin working on Lviv’s city routes.
Through his example, Ivan Lebid demonstrates that even after a severe injury, it is possible to master a new profession and return to an independent and active life.