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Interview with Andrii Omelchenko, Nova Ukraine Medical Project Coordinator

ID photo of Nova Ukraine volunteer Andrii Omelchenko.

Before the russian army’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Andrii worked in the trade for 18 years. He had his own business.

In March 2022, he realized that his past career successes and personal well-being were no longer relevant. He got involved in helping Ukraine as a volunteer for the Prosto Lyudy charity foundation, which in two years turned into the Prostolyts Charitable Foundation, providing charitable medical and health care to civilians in the frontline areas and the Ukrainian Defense Forces.

In May 2023, he joined the international team of motivated, like-minded people at Nova Ukraine, which unites very different people, true Ukrainians, for a common goal—our Victory!

Nova Ukraine team in Kharkiv. Manages warehouse inventory of medical aid.

Interview

Who are you in Nova Ukraine?

I audit the grants that were issued in the past, checking their appropriateness and use by Nova Ukraine. 

What story touched you the most during the two years of war?

In April 2022, our Prostolits Foundation, which started as the “Just People” Foundation, deeply moved me and continues to do so today. I was truly inspired by the cohesion and dedication of dozens of people who came to our center to contribute to the common cause, helping both military and civilians, bringing us closer to victory. This is what excited me then, and I still remember it nostalgically today, because, unfortunately, this enthusiasm has diminished in many people over the past two-and-a-half years. 

As for the tragic events over the years, I lost my best friend, who was the founder of the “Just People” Foundation at the time we created our medical care center. He died in January 2024, giving his life for Ukraine. We all remember him and will continue to remember him. 

What would I have wished for myself 10 years ago?

To realize that I am a citizen of a great and strong global state, Ukraine. And even back then, I should have seriously reconsidered my views on our neighbors (russians). 

What is the most important thing you have realized in the last two years?

I have realized that in difficult times you should not focus so much on what you want to do, but on what you MUST do. Do useful things, bringing victory closer. 

War is… 

Dirt, death, stench, misery—all negative.

A volunteer is…

A volunteer is, first and foremost, a patriot of their country. That’s the main thing.

Nova Ukraine is…

Nova Ukraine is an international charitable foundation, one of the largest and most powerful in Ukraine. 

I am worried about…

First of all, for the lives and health of our defenders. For two-and-a-half years now, every night when I go to bed, I wish them health and a quiet, peaceful night.

My dream is about…

Of course, of victory.

What will you do after Ukraine’s Victory?

On the day of victory, I will first shave and celebrate. And I hope I will continue this or similar activities until there is a stable order in the free state of Ukraine. 

Donate to Support Our Efforts

Please consider supporting Nova Ukraine’s various projects by donating today to bring critical support to those in need. As the devastation has no end in sight, please consider making your donation recurring.

Donate Now

Nov 11, 2024

Nova Ukraine

Nova Ukraine
ID photo of Nova Ukraine volunteer Andrii Omelchenko.
Nov 11, 2024

Nova Ukraine

Nova Ukraine

Before the russian army’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, Andrii worked in the trade for 18 years. He had his own business.

In March 2022, he realized that his past career successes and personal well-being were no longer relevant. He got involved in helping Ukraine as a volunteer for the Prosto Lyudy charity foundation, which in two years turned into the Prostolyts Charitable Foundation, providing charitable medical and health care to civilians in the frontline areas and the Ukrainian Defense Forces.

In May 2023, he joined the international team of motivated, like-minded people at Nova Ukraine, which unites very different people, true Ukrainians, for a common goal—our Victory!

Nova Ukraine team in Kharkiv. Manages warehouse inventory of medical aid.

Interview

Who are you in Nova Ukraine?

I audit the grants that were issued in the past, checking their appropriateness and use by Nova Ukraine. 

What story touched you the most during the two years of war?

In April 2022, our Prostolits Foundation, which started as the “Just People” Foundation, deeply moved me and continues to do so today. I was truly inspired by the cohesion and dedication of dozens of people who came to our center to contribute to the common cause, helping both military and civilians, bringing us closer to victory. This is what excited me then, and I still remember it nostalgically today, because, unfortunately, this enthusiasm has diminished in many people over the past two-and-a-half years. 

As for the tragic events over the years, I lost my best friend, who was the founder of the “Just People” Foundation at the time we created our medical care center. He died in January 2024, giving his life for Ukraine. We all remember him and will continue to remember him. 

What would I have wished for myself 10 years ago?

To realize that I am a citizen of a great and strong global state, Ukraine. And even back then, I should have seriously reconsidered my views on our neighbors (russians). 

What is the most important thing you have realized in the last two years?

I have realized that in difficult times you should not focus so much on what you want to do, but on what you MUST do. Do useful things, bringing victory closer. 

War is… 

Dirt, death, stench, misery—all negative.

A volunteer is…

A volunteer is, first and foremost, a patriot of their country. That’s the main thing.

Nova Ukraine is…

Nova Ukraine is an international charitable foundation, one of the largest and most powerful in Ukraine. 

I am worried about…

First of all, for the lives and health of our defenders. For two-and-a-half years now, every night when I go to bed, I wish them health and a quiet, peaceful night.

My dream is about…

Of course, of victory.

What will you do after Ukraine’s Victory?

On the day of victory, I will first shave and celebrate. And I hope I will continue this or similar activities until there is a stable order in the free state of Ukraine. 

Donate to Support Our Efforts

Please consider supporting Nova Ukraine’s various projects by donating today to bring critical support to those in need. As the devastation has no end in sight, please consider making your donation recurring.

Donate Now

We greatly value your support, and it is indeed crucial. Please consider donating monthly. Your consistent contributions are vital to sustaining our efforts and driving meaningful change over time. Your commitment will make a lasting difference, and we sincerely appreciate your consideration.

Donate
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