Ukrainian Children Unite in Summer Camp Amidst War Trauma

Amidst the backdrop of war in Ukraine, a summer camp provides a refuge for children whose parents are missing. These young participants share their experiences and find comfort in camaraderie as they navigate their trauma together.

In a serene corner of western Ukraine, a group of 50 children gathers around a campfire, their stories steeped in the harsh realities of war. Among them is 15-year-old Dima, who shares painful memories of his father, who left to join the military just after Russia's full-scale invasion began. In a poignant moment, the children, united by the absence of their loved ones, light candles in remembrance of those still missing.

This summer camp, organized by the charity Gen.Ukrainian, specifically caters to children reeling from the loss or disappearance of parents due to the ongoing conflict. Since the war began, over 70,000 individuals have been reported missing, leaving many families in a state of limbo and agony.

Psychologist Vanui Martirosyan, leading the camp’s mental health initiatives, notes that these children often carry multiple layers of trauma. The uncertainty and anxiety about their families weigh heavily on their young minds, making it challenging to plan for the future. Rather than confronting conventional grief, many children live in a 'frozen' state of hope and despair.

Over the course of the camp, children engage in group therapy sessions and activities designed to help them express their emotions. From painting their cherished memories to candid discussions about feelings of sadness and anger, the camp encourages creativity and healing. For some, like seven-year-old Zahar, drawing extends a glimmer of hope for reconnection, encapsulated in a painting titled "Daddy comes home."

As part of their therapy, physical activities such as hiking and swimming aim to relieve stress and foster a sense of normalcy. For once, these children can escape threats of air raids and focus on forming friendships with others who share their experiences. Sixteen-year-old Nastia reflects on her father, a soldier missing for nearly a year, recalling only fond memories and expressing her enduring love and hope for new moments together.

The camp culminates in an emotional farewell ceremony, where tears turn into smiles as friendships forged in shared pain surface. “Group therapy helps these children understand they are not alone in their suffering,” says Oksana Lebedieva, founder of Gen.Ukrainian, emphasizing the profound impact of collective healing.

As the camp closes its doors, she stares at the smiling faces of the children, fully aware of the immense task ahead—supporting millions of traumatised Ukrainian children impacted by this devastating humanitarian crisis.