Новини
A Symbol of Recovery: The MHP Run4Victory Medal Ribbon Designed by a Student of Maria Prymachenko
30 april 2026
The medals for the MHP Run4Victory charity races in Kyiv and Cherkasy share common design elements — a dynamic line at their core. It reflects both the running route and the flow of the Dnipro River, which connects the two cities. The medals are complemented by symbols of Kyiv and Cherkasy, referencing local landscapes. What unites them is the key idea behind the race — recovery.
The ribbon design was created by Vasyl Sheligatskyi, one of the last students personally taught by the world-renowned Ukrainian artist Maria Prymachenko. Through this work, he aimed to draw attention to the importance of prosthetics and preserving Ukrainian identity during wartime. He developed two versions of the ribbon — for adults and for children.
The ribbon is vivid, expressive, and deeply rooted in the theme of recovery. Its patterns are inspired by Maria Prymachenko’s artistic style and symbolize life that continues to grow even after the most difficult times. These ornaments embody the strength of Ukrainian culture — one that supports and heals. In contrast to the restrained design of the medal, the ribbon speaks for itself: recovery is not only physical, but also about inner strength and the return of life.
Vasyl Ivanovych lives in a village in the Kyiv region, where a museum dedicated to Maria Prymachenko once stood. On February 27, 2022, it was destroyed by Russian artillery. In response, he painted the entire village in the artist’s recognizable style — schools, houses, and bus stops. Today, his own works are featured in exhibitions.
How a student of Maria Prymachenko created a symbol of recovery for runners
In the fourth grade, during a school trip to Prymachenko’s village, he approached her himself and asked to become her student. For the next four years, he traveled from a neighboring village to attend her lessons — by bicycle in the summer and through harsh winters. Over time, he became close to her family:
“I was her favorite student — that’s what she used to say. Even when I was serving in the army, Maria Oksentiivna would send me hand-painted postcards,” recalls Vasyl Ivanovych. “She taught me how to speak about important things through art. Today, I pass this style on to future generations, adding meanings that reflect our reality. Now, it’s about supporting veterans who need our help to recover.”
Turning personal experience into a way to help
Vasyl Sheligatskyi served in the air defense forces during his military service. During the full-scale invasion, he lived through the occupation of his village in the Kyiv region. Now nearly 75, he continues to support the military: preparing firewood, hosting soldiers in his home, helping local volunteers, and contributing financially.
His family also carries the legacy of war:
“Everyone fought in World War II. My father was wounded, my uncles became disabled — one lost his arms, another his legs. Back then, there were no prosthetics; they had to make wooden ones themselves. I saw what that meant. That’s why I deeply understand how important prosthetics are for veterans — for a full and dignified life,” he says.
Running for recovery
MHP Run4Victory is a race where every step matters:
“Every participant in the MHP Run4Victory Kyiv Marathon contributes to veterans’ recovery through their participation. And after crossing the finish line, they take this contribution with them — in the form of a medal with a unique ribbon,” emphasizes Pavlo Moroz, Director of Corporate Social Responsibility at MHP. “We are bringing people together around something meaningful. Involving Vasyl Sheligatskyi in this charity event is a way to highlight the importance of unity. Together, we can achieve more — and right now, that matters more than ever.”
