The "Dance of Freedom" world tour of Ukrainian gymnast Oleksandra Paskal has begun in Paris, supported by Rinat Akhmetov together with his Foundation and Shakhtar Donetsk football club. Ten-year-old Sasha, who lost a leg in a russian missile strike in 2022 and returned to gymnastics on a prosthesis, danced at the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and the Arc de Triomphe. During her visit she held an advocacy meeting with UNESCO and met the leading French newspaper Le Monde. The tour is dedicated to the forthcoming 35th anniversary of Ukraine's Independence.
What is the "Dance of Freedom" tour?
Last week we introduced "Dance of Freedom", a world tour that will take Oleksandra Paskal to five continents and five major cities. Oleksandra, known as Sasha, has prepared five special dances, each one telling the world about the strength, resilience and freedom of Ukrainians. The tour is supported by Rinat Akhmetov together with his Foundation and Shakhtar Donetsk football club, and is dedicated to the forthcoming 35th anniversary of Ukraine's Independence. Paris was its first city.
Where did Sasha perform in Paris?
Sasha danced at three of the city's most famous places: the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and the Arc de Triomphe. In these well-known settings, Ukraine's story was told through dance, carrying a message of freedom and strength of spirit to a wide international audience.
What happened during her meeting with UNESCO?
An important moment in Paris was Sasha's advocacy meeting with UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization). During the conversation, it was agreed that she will perform at one of the organisation's future international conferences, giving her the chance to share Ukraine's story with an even wider audience.
What did Le Monde say about Sasha?
In Paris, Sasha also met journalists from the leading French newspaper Le Monde. The paper described her as a symbol of the Ukrainian people's resilience and courage, and noted the wide admiration her perseverance has earned. Sasha told Le Monde that she wants "to inspire other children, not only Ukrainians, to keep moving forward".
Who is Oleksandra (Sasha) Paskal?
In 2022, Sasha lost a leg in a russian missile strike. She returned to gymnastics on a prosthesis and sees her mission as telling the truth about the war and supporting Ukrainian children. She is now regarded as one of Ukraine's brightest rhythmic gymnastics prospects.
How is the Rinat Akhmetov Foundation supporting her?
The tour is delivered together with the Rinat Akhmetov Foundation and Shakhtar Donetsk football club. The Foundation continues to support children affected by the war, helping them to regain a sense of safety, stability and belief in the future. From Paris, the tour will continue to other cities around the world.
