Andreii is more than a leader — he embodies the empathy and strength that helps drive Zaporizhzhia’s volunteer movement.

Professionally, he heads the railway workers’ union in one of Ukraine’s most critical transport hubs in a city of over 700,000. His role reflects a deep-rooted expertise in logistics and leadership. But when war tore apart life in Ukraine in 2022, Andreii stepped into a far greater calling: leading humanitarian efforts to support the country’s most vulnerable.

As the founder and chairman of Amulet of Life, Andreii helped create a vital support system for people displaced by conflict. Under his leadership, the organization provides emergency shelter, food, medical and psychosocial care to those often left behind — especially the poor, the disabled, and families with children who have nowhere else to turn.

Andreii also believes deeply in investing in the next generation.  He has spearheaded efforts to organize and support an underground school, is leading the transformation of a former Soviet nuclear shelter into a safe facility to revive a vocational training program for future railway workers, and is creating joyful, secure spaces where children can briefly escape the trauma of war — even if just for a day at a water park.

Andreii’s leadership extends beyond immediate aid. He focuses on practical innovations, such as plans to build lightweight, mobile water filtration systems for rural areas where clean water is a pressing issue, and to acquire surveillance drones to protect critical facilities and trains near the Russian front from sabotage.

What sets Andreii apart is his heart. He leads with kindness, courage, and an unwavering commitment to his team — many of whom are like family to him. Anchored by the love of his wife and two children, Andreii is also surrounded by a close-knit community of volunteers who share his mission and dedication.

As a tribute to their relentless work, Amulet of Life was recently recognized by the Zaporizhzhia Regional State Administration for its outstanding contribution to humanitarian work and volunteerism under martial law.

"When people lose everything, they don’t just need shelter — they need dignity, support, and hope. That’s what we’re here to provide."
– Andreii