We continue to introduce you to the fighters supported by the “Solidarity Collectives”. Meet Soya — our new fighter. 

“I am a fighter under the call sign Soya, a vegan and an artist. 
I work with mines — I prepare them for a meeting with the enemy, and soon I will also be aiming a mortar. 
I joined the army six months ago, but I made attempts to join earlier. I encountered many refusals based on my gender and young age. At the moment it was painful, but over time I feel that these were not the right places [to join], and now I am exactly where I should be. 

My decision to join the military service was influenced by the full-scale war itself and the death of my comrades — now they call it the survivor guilt. I feel obliged to continue the work for which their lives were taken. 

At the beginning of the full-scale invasion, I was finishing my degree as a theatre designer — I later received my diploma. I also worked as a tattoo artist. Deep down, there is a small hope to work in the theatre someday, because I have an unconditional love for it. However,I believe that living a peaceful life during the war is a hypocritical, like turning a blind eye to the reality that requires my contribution. 

I also participated in feminist, animal protection, LGBT+ activism. After the full-scale invasion I took part in demonstrations to protect prisoners of war and missing in action, as well as lobbying the city authorities for funding for the army. 

A theatre artist diploma won’t help me shoot a mortar, but I am infinitely grateful to those who fought at that time. Because of them, I received it. Now it is my turn. 

Of course, I have material needs. I feel the need to communicate with other female veterans. I also feel that all the fighters are my sisters. I haven’t contacted any veterans’ unions yet, but I know from my comrades that there are good initiatives that support them on this path.”