For eleven years, the Rinat Akhmetov Foundation's project "Rinat Akhmetov – To Children. Peaceful Rest for Children of Ukraine" has helped kids affected by the war rediscover a sense of childhood. What began in 2015 has grown into an all-season initiative, with the Blogger Camp at its centre. More than 5,000 children have taken part so far, and across all its programmes the Foundation has supported over 6 million children of Ukraine.
What is the "Rinat Akhmetov – To Children" project?
The project began in 2015, when it became clear that kids living in the war zone urgently needed support. War leaves deep marks on the youngest Ukrainians, and for eleven years the initiative has worked to heal those wounds — restoring children's sense of childhood and their faith in the future. Today it runs year-round, and one of its most important elements is the Blogger Camp.
What happens at the Blogger Camp?
The Camp brings together children who have lived through some of the hardest experiences of the war, including deportation, occupation, the loss of parents, and shelling. Rather than dwelling on what they have endured, they learn through creativity, art therapy, and digital skills to look to the future with confidence. The programme is full and varied, with quests, creative masterclasses, sport, and blogging skills taught by experienced mentors. Teenagers also find like-minded friends and a calm, supportive environment.
How does the Camp help children affected by the war?
Specialists trained under the "War Trauma" programme say the most important goal is to restore each child's sense of safety and inspire them to build a future in Ukraine. As Foundation psychologist Nina Kushchenko explains, the focus is not on grief or hardship but on children's own strengths, resources, and positive outlook — helping them believe in themselves again.
Who supports the children?
Alongside the specialists, well-known figures visit the Camp to encourage the children. Over the years these have included singers, television presenters, actors, and the creators of the animated film "Mavka. The Forest Song". Their message is a simple one: the world is wide and open, and it is waiting for the children's talents.
How many children has the project reached?
More than 5,000 children from across the country have taken part in "Peaceful Rest for Children of Ukraine", finding rest, hope, and new experiences. Across all of its work, the Foundation has supported over 6 million children of Ukraine.
Recognition for the Foundation's wider work
Ukraine's Parliament Commissioner for Human Rights, Dmytro Lubinets, recently named Rinat Akhmetov and the Foundation among the first recipients of a new distinction for the Office of the Ombudsman's key partners.
