In 2015, before Ukraine’s armed forces became a global symbol of resilience, a group of military cadets spoke candidly with Pawlina about their hopes and motivations. Recorded inside a hallway at Ukrainian Catholic University during a conference hosted by Ukrainian Jewish Encounter, this interview captures them at the beginning of their journey—still students, still forming their professional identities, but already committed to service.
Their stories reflect a mix of personal history and national responsibility: daughters of military families, first‑generation soldiers, aspiring teachers, future interpreters, and a cadet specializing in psychological operations. Each describes a different path into the military, yet all share a clear sense of purpose.
Revisiting this conversation nearly a decade later adds depth to the broader story of Ukraine’s transformation. These young people were preparing for roles that would soon become critical, though none could have predicted how quickly their skills would be needed. This recording offers a rare, intimate look at the formative years of those who would go on to serve in a rapidly changing world.
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