Oksana Kondratovych, Ternopil region: “Even small help can make a big difference”

Oksana joined the Ukrainian Red Cross as a volunteer at the end of 2022. In such a challenging time for the country, it was important for her to be useful and to do even small, practical things for people in need.

Today, Oksana works in mental health and psychosocial support in the Ternopil region. She deliberately chose to work with people, especially children and families, as she feels this is where she can be most helpful. “It means being there when things are difficult and giving people a sense that they are remembered and cared for,” she explains.

Despite tiredness and challenges, Oksana is motivated by simple but heartfelt things — people’s smiles, words of thanks, and the knowledge that her presence can truly make someone’s day easier. The moments she remembers most are when, after difficult events, people begin to smile again. It is at those times, she says, that the purpose of her work becomes clear.

There have been moments of fear, too, but the team helps her cope. Support from colleagues, shared conversations, and the reassurance that there are people to rely on give her the strength to keep going.