“My mission is to help people”, Valerii Puzyr, Kirovohrad region

Valerii is a physical education teacher by profession. He joined the Ukrainian Red Cross in 2017, beginning his volunteer journey as a first-aid instructor.

“Teaching others how to save lives is already a great responsibility. But over time, I realised that I could — and should — do more.”

In August 2025, Valerii became commander of the Ukrainian Red Cross emergency response team in the Kirovohrad region.

For him, being a commander is first and foremost about taking responsibility for others and being ready to stand by them in the most difficult moments. What he values most in his team is honesty and responsibility — qualities essential for trust and effective teamwork.

“I see my mission as being there for people in the most difficult moments. We go where people need support and do everything we can to help.”

For Valerii, the work of the emergency response team is above all about taking practical action and helping people when they need it most.

“We are the ones who take action, who help people here and now, whatever the circumstances. And that is what our work is truly about.”