Viktoriia Barylovska

Being a young Ukrainian with Polish and German roots from rural Western Ukraine means you have countless stories to tell and even more to explore. Since childhood, I grew up in a multinational household and learned to appreciate diversity in its simplest forms, starting from language and ethnicity to religion and worldview. I was lucky enough to be surrounded by advantageous, independent, strong-willed people who were also caring and kind-hearted. They shaped my values and nationalism while engraving in my thirst for knowledge, hard-working nature, interest in culture, history, and traditions preservation, and commitment to my dreams that are always connected to developing Ukraine and seeing it bloom with prosperity and pride. Gradually, the desire to give back led me to volunteering, so my life has turned into a kaleidoscope of youth-led projects and international initiatives, genuine human connections, and endless late-night trains across Ukraine. Each success and joint effort ignited my passion for spreading youth voices and inclusivity in decision-making to secure social justice in my local Ukrainian communities so that everyone can thrive equally. Since the beginning of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, I've been eager to use my skillset and knowledge to become a responsible young citizen who is effectively contributing to Ukraine's future reconstruction. Such things as public protests, youth conferences, informal education, and social initiatives are now an integral part of my life. There is a whole world to explore and unite, so there should be no space for discrimination or labeling. Diversity makes society beautiful and powerful, and I believe it's through our capacity for love and empathy that we reach our fullest potential as communities. I’m sure my leadership experience, combined with UWC values, will empower me to collaborate successfully and contribute meaningfully to Brave Generation’s mission in the future.