Resilience in Practice: A Visit to Kulykivka, Chernihiv Region

During a recent visit to Ukraine’s Chernihiv region, Jordan, representing Kent With Ukraine, spent time in the community of Kulykivka, where he received an exceptionally warm welcome from local leaders and residents alike. Despite the ongoing challenges of living under constant threat, the visit offered a powerful insight into the resilience, pride, and determination that continue to define this community.

When Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022, the Chernihiv region became one of the main axes of the Russian advance from Belarus. Communities across the region were suddenly thrown directly into the path of war. Kulykivka, located close to the front line and near the siege of Chernihiv, found itself in an especially precarious position. During the early stages of the invasion, the town became both a refuge and a transit point for tens of thousands of civilians fleeing nearby villages that had been occupied or devastated by Russian attacks.

Today, life in Kulykivka remains difficult. The community continues to be subjected to drone attacks and bombardment from Russia, forcing residents to live with constant uncertainty. Yet, as Jordan witnessed firsthand, this is not a community defined by fear. Instead, it is one marked by determination to keep moving forward and to protect the fabric of local life despite the war.

In meetings with Yuliya Posternak, Head of the Community at the Kulykivka Settlement Council (Куликівська селищна рада), discussions focused on both the ongoing challenges and the community’s determination to overcome them. They spoke about the importance of strengthening local security, supporting young people, and ensuring that community life continues even under the pressures of conflict. The conversations highlighted a shared belief that international partnerships can play a meaningful role in helping communities like Kulykivka remain resilient.

One initiative that particularly stood out during the visit was Kulykivka’s voluntary female fire brigade. In the face of war and constant threats from the air, local women have stepped forward to help protect their community, responding to fires and emergencies caused by attacks. This remarkable initiative is a powerful reminder of the sense of responsibility and solidarity that runs through Ukrainian society. Kent With Ukraine looks forward to supporting this effort and exploring how shared experience and cooperation could strengthen emergency response on both sides.

Jordan also visited Kulykivka Lyceum, where he was shown the school’s protective shelter and its “Defense of Ukraine” classroom. Here, children in their early teens are learning practical skills such as drone operation and advanced first aid, including the use of tourniquets. These lessons reflect the harsh realities of life in a country at war, but they also demonstrate an extraordinary commitment to education, preparedness, and empowerment.

Even after an incredibly tough winter and years of disruption, there is a clear focus in Kulykivka on education, creativity, and giving young people the tools to shape their own future. Teachers and school leaders are working tirelessly to ensure that students not only stay safe, but continue to learn, grow, and believe in the possibility of a better tomorrow.

What struck Jordan most throughout the visit was the pride people take in their community. From civic leaders to teachers and volunteers, there is a deep commitment to investing in young people and maintaining a sense of normality wherever possible. This energy and dedication were described as nothing short of inspiring.

Discussions also explored ways that Kent and Kulykivka could build closer links in the future. Potential areas of cooperation include youth engagement, education, and collaboration between emergency services. These conversations marked the beginning of what both sides hope will become a strong, practical, and lasting partnership.

The people of the Kulykivka community are not simply enduring the war. They are showing what resilience looks like in practice, while working to give their young people a more rounded experience after four years of stolen childhood. Their strength, determination, and openness to partnership offer a powerful example of hope under the most difficult circumstances.

Jordan extended his sincere thanks to everyone in Kulykivka for such a warm welcome, and to colleagues at the Department of Economic Development of the Chernihiv Regional State Administration (Департамент економічного розвитку Чернігівської ОДА) for making the visit possible. The visit left no doubt that this is the start of a meaningful and lasting connection between communities in Kent and Chernihiv.