In Odesa, the premiere of a documentary film took place, highlighting the role of women during the war who have become leaders, serve their communities, and support each other. This project demonstrates how women transform from ordinary peaceful lives to new realities, as well as showing how support and sisterhood arise that can withstand any trials.
The documentary project “Be Her Voice” was implemented in partnership with the public organizations “Women in Media” and the “Ukrainian Women’s Fund.” Odesa became the second city in Ukraine where this important project was presented. Olena Kvasha, producer of the Southern Hub, emphasized that this is one of the largest events held in the city during the war, and it is especially gratifying that one of the film’s heroines is from Odesa.
Zinaida Prokopenko, an awareness-raising specialist in the Roma mobile brigade of the charitable foundation “Winds of Change,” was present at the screening. The film crew worked in the villages of Poplavka and Nerubaiske, where Roma communities live. Zinaida highlighted the importance of education for Roma girls, sharing how through play they dream and realize the value of learning.
She also raised the issue of early marriages in Roma communities, where girls are married off as early as 13 years old without their consent. Zinaida noted that marriage is not forbidden but is an important part of life; however, she strives for Roma girls to understand the possibility of living differently, developing themselves, and setting new goals.
Discussion After the Screening
After watching the film, a panel discussion took place with representatives of public organizations and educational institutions. Among the participants were Isa Aisha Khamza, head of the League of Muslim Women of Ukraine, as well as Odesa City Council deputies Maryna Boyko and Olha Kvasnytska.
Olena Kvasha noted that the purpose of the discussion was to give the speakers an opportunity to share their thoughts on how women’s voices influence communities and politics, as well as to discuss their successes and challenges on the path to change.
The documentary film “Be Her Voice” can be viewed on the First YouTube channel, where it is available to all interested viewers.
