When I met Alaska, we immediately started talking about the need for mental health support. Before the war escalated, she worked on a counter-propaganda programme called ‘Anti-Zombie’ on ICTV and studied medicine at university.
Eventually, she plans to help military reintegrate into society. When we talk three months later, Alaska tells me she is still suffering the aftereffects of a severe concussion, that she is feeling sick and tired, but that now she is head of a medical battalion, and she has no choice but to continue to work.
‘How can I help?’ It is a question I often ask because I am in awe of these soldiers. ‘Perhaps I can send you food, supplies, or anything you request?’
Her answer makes me feel useful:
‘Mark, can you show me your new photos? A dose of art and beauty should help me! And I love your work.’
Diary of a Volunteer is both an exhibition and a fundraising project.
Postcode Ukraine is a Kyiv-based charity founded in 2022 to support grassroots humanitarian organisations and volunteer groups working directly with communities affected by the war
*US supporters of Postcode Ukraine can make tax-deductible donations through our US partner, Shield of Freedom, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit supporting Ukraine. Donations made through this campaign are received and acknowledged by Shield of Freedom and, through its grant programme, support Postcode Ukraine's humanitarian aid initiatives in Ukraine.
Since 2022, Postcode Ukraine has directly funded more than $500,000 of humanitarian aid projects across Ukraine
Through photography, film and humanitarian action, Postcode Ukraine works to ensure that the experiences of ordinary Ukrainians are seen, remembered and supported.
