"Eyes of Mariupol. Ukrainian Superheroes. Azovstal" at Ostroh Academy

June 06, 2024

On June 6, a presentation of the book and exhibition "Eyes of Mariupol. Ukrainian Superheroes. Azovstal" by Ukrainian writer Anastasiia Dmytruk took place at the National University of "Ostroh Academy".

"This event is made possible thanks to our heroic Armed Forces of Ukraine. Despite the current conditions, we must work and seek good and enjoyable moments while never forgetting those who make them possible. Today at Ostroh Academy, a unique event is taking place. Anastasiia Dmytruk has visited us, a person of incredible dynamism, talent, and intellect. Thanks to her, we had the opportunity to learn about the project "Eyes of Mariupol. Ukrainian Superheroes.  Azovstal" and meet with representatives of the Azov Regiment. Our guests are young people, and you, the esteemed students, are also young. Let us take an example from them so that this active and dynamic Ukrainian minority constantly inspires the broader Ukrainian community.",

"Eyes of Mariupol. Ukrainian Superheroes. Azovstal" is a documentary book containing excerpts of correspondence from the defenders of Azovstal with their loved ones during the siege of the garrison. The author enriched the book with her own poems and illustrations by artists dedicated to the defenders. Proceeds from the book sales will go towards humanitarian aid and supporting families who have lost their loved ones.

"It is a great honour to be at Ostroh Academy again and speak on such an important topic. Thanks to the young, proactive, and caring individuals who invite us to their cities for book presentations. The people described in the project are extraordinary and unique to me. They defended Mariupol, showed character, halted a lightning-fast advance in the south, and took on the overwhelming forces of the enemy. Thanks to them, Kyiv was largely spared from harm. Many Azov fighters who defended Kyiv later went south to assist their comrades. Returning from captivity, after defending Mariupol, the Azovstal defenders again lined up and fought the enemy, delivering a blow to them. These people inspire",

According to the author, the project is an attempt to thank the defenders of Mariupol for their courage and bravery because, with their principles and character, they showed the world that Ukraine would stand to the end. Their contribution to making the Western world see and start providing assistance has been enormous.

"I am happy that in such difficult and stressful circumstances, I was able to create something useful, which continues to help spread information about the defenders of Mariupol, tell the true story, and remind Ukrainians and the world that many defenders of Mariupol are still in Russian captivity."

The event was also attended by Ostroh Academy student Dmytro Kozatskyi (call sign "Orest"), an Azovstal defender, military man, photographer, fighter of the Azov Regiment, author of 25 photos of his wounded comrades from the field hospital at the plant, which were shown to the world

"My most important mission now is to remind people about the prisoners of war. Thank you for keeping this in mind as well. I am convinced that the exhibition at Ostroh Academy and the book you will read will inspire you. Being around such incredible people, I am proud of the experience I gained in the Azov Regiment. I hope they will motivate you because you are the best future of our country. Defenders are now protecting this future, and you will be shaping it. I believe that all these stories will inspire you to make our country better, to remember the deeds of the fallen, to fight for those in captivity and to help those who are alive",

Doctor of Science (Psychology), Professor, Assistant Rector for International Cooperation and Fundraising, Eduard Balashov, added:

"I sincerely thank Anastasiia for the project "Eyes of Mariupol. Ukrainian Superheroes. Azovstal". The heroes of this book are examples of titans, of Ukrainian indomitability and spirit. I am grateful to Ms Valeriia and Mr Dmytro for covering the events at Azovstal. I sincerely hope that you will cooperate with our journalism students and that they will be able to meet you again and again."

During the meeting, students asked the speakers several questions. We talked about the Azovstal brigade, the messages that are best disseminated worldwide to drive change and convey the truth, the negative impact of Russian cultural expansion, narratives about the war, etc.

"I believe that a good chord of today's meeting is our active participation, clear and uncompromising positions in social media, comments for the media when we talk about the prisoners, and conveying this information to the international community so that our defenders can return home as soon as possible",

Tetiana Polishchuk, a 4th-year law student, shared her impressions of the meeting:

"We are still overwhelmed with emotions from the event that once again reminded us of the indomitable spirit of our defenders. Communication with guests was precious. Their stories about the heroic defence of Mariupol and personal stories added a special emotional colour to the meeting. Such events are significant, as they allow us to understand better that freedom and independence are archival values worth fighting for. I am glad that Ostroh Academy hosts events that allow students to communicate with historical figures, learn more about the strength and courage of our defenders, and strengthen our faith in the bright future of Ukraine."

At the end of the event, everyone could visit the exhibition "Eyes of Mariupol. Ukrainian Superheroes. Azovstal", located on the territory of the new building of Ostroh Academy.