This article was written by Ukrainian Vlad Guz, a guest on the new episode of our podcast, Embracing the Mind. Listen to Vlad’s full story on the podcast here.
TW: This article contains content that may be distressing to some listeners, including war, displacement, violence and PTSD.
Two years ago Russia started a full-scale invasion of Ukraine and it changed my life completely.
Peace is something often taken for granted. I didn’t spend a lot of time thinking about peace before the war in Ukraine. It’s a life-changing experience. You start to appreciate what you have, and many things don’t really matter to you anymore. Think about all the things you would leave behind when you hear a real fire alarm – they are not important.
What is important is life and family, even if you feel that your family has never understood you. My parents were twice kidnapped, once from their company’s office and a second time from our home. Our house was our fortress. My parents didn’t expect that soldiers would break in there, place a bag over dad’s head and take him away. Russians tortured my dad twice, they broke his arms and ribs, smashed his face and made him do what they wanted. They threatened my mum that they would kill her children. Now, dad has nightmares every night and mum is afraid of going back home. She lives in the Netherlands with the rest of my family.
Before the war, I used to worry about things that I can’t even remember now. When talking to other people of my age, I try to explain that no matter what is happening in their lives, they can make it through. Even if the worst happens, just keep going, seek support from friends and relatives, find solace in sport or a hobby and take your time recovering.
I tell people that they have to value and appreciate their lifestyle, as for many people of their age in Ukraine, their last day has already happened. In early January, the UN reported that almost 1,800 children have been killed or injured since the start of the invasion. As of December 2023, the United Nations Human Rights Monitoring Mission in Ukraine had recorded 29,330 civilian casualties in the country. And last month, the International Committee of the Red Cross reported that 23,000 people remain missing as a result of the invasion.
I’ve learned that each of us, can be stronger than we realise. Stay strong, enjoy every moment of your life, spread love and help others. Donate to people in need – send $10 to an animal rescue fund or find an organisation providing humanitarian aid to people in need. Remember, as long as you are alive – you can cope, and you will make it through.
Vlad Guz gave a TEDxKings Park Youth talk in July 2023. Source: TEDxKings Park
About Vlad:
As a student I was recognised at school and university with honours and scholarships. At University I enjoyed the challenge of working so, before graduation, I was already a Marketing and Communications Team Leader in an international holding. I’m passionate about developing strategies, leading design teams, promoting products, and implementing creative approaches in my work. I am proud of my projects with Warner Bros. Entertainment, Valve, Ubisoft, Bandai Namco and WePlay AniMajor.