A Young Woman from Frontline Kharkiv Turns a Dream into Reality

In frontline Kharkiv, where daily life is shadowed by anxiety and uncertainty, Daryna Kikot finds steadiness in music. By day she works as a secretary at an educational institution; in her free time, she performs and practices on the bandura, Ukraine's traditional folk instrument, known for a sound that is at once bright and haunting.

"In Kharkiv, where the war reminds us of itself every day, music is my only bright island," Daryna says. "It helps me cope with stress, restore my inner peace, and find the inspiration not to give up."

A high-quality instrument was beyond her financial means, so Daryna turned to the Women's Opportunity Fund of Ukraine. Her new bandura was purchased through contributions from students of WOnder School, WOF-UA’s educational project, their support becoming part of another young woman's story.

"Holding this instrument in my hands is an incredible feeling!" Daryna says. "Thank you for the support that has opened a new chapter in my creativity and given me the strength to work even harder."

Sometimes supporting a person means giving them the chance to do what helps them find their center again. For Daryna, that came in the shape of a bandura; a Ukrainian voice that will keep sounding from Kharkiv, no matter what.