On August 22nd, the President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky and the First Lady of Ukraine Olena Zelenska awarded the winners of the «National Legend of Ukraine» prize. The ceremony, held at the Mariinsky Palace in Kyiv, honored outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to the development and prosperity of Ukraine.
The «National Legend of Ukraine» prize was established in 2018 by the Ministry of Culture to recognize the achievements of individuals in the fields of culture, art, science, and sports. This year, eleven laureates were selected from over 200 nominees, representing a diverse range of talents and accomplishments.
In his opening speech, President Zelensky emphasized the importance of honoring those who have dedicated their lives to promoting the Ukrainian spirit and values. «We are proud of our winners, who have become real legends of our country and inspire others to achieve greatness,» he stated.
Among the recipients of the «National Legend of Ukraine» prize were renowned musician and composer Volodymyr Ivasyuk, Olympic champion and sports journalist Oksana Baiul, and distinguished writer and journalist Mykhailo Kotsiubynsky. Each laureate was presented with a symbolic figurine of a Ukrainian Cossack and a certificate of recognition signed by President Zelensky and First Lady Olena Zelenska.
In addition to honoring established figures, the prize also acknowledged the achievements of young and rising stars. This year, the «National Legend of Ukraine» prize introduced a special category for individuals under the age of 30, recognizing their potential and promising talent. The winners of this category included ballet dancer Andriy Pisarev and filmmaker Maryna Stepanska.
The ceremony was accompanied by a cultural program, featuring performances by renowned Ukrainian artists and musicians. Among them were the National Academic Orchestra of Folk Instruments, the National Honored Academic Dance Ensemble of Ukraine named after P. Virsky, and the National Honored Academic Bandura Capella of Ukraine.
The «National Legend of Ukraine» prize not only celebrates the achievements of exceptional individuals, but also serves as a reminder of the rich cultural heritage and diversity of Ukraine. President Zelensky and First Lady Olena Zelenska’s recognition of these legends reinforces the country’s commitment to promoting and preserving its unique identity.
This year’s ceremony also coincided with the celebration of Ukrainian Independence Day, further emphasizing the importance of honoring the country’s legends and their contributions to its development and progress.
As the event came to a close, President Zelensky congratulated the laureates and expressed his gratitude for their unwavering dedication to Ukraine. «You are the true symbols of our nation and your achievements will forever be remembered and celebrated,» he concluded.
The «National Legend of Ukraine» prize ceremony was a testament to the exceptional talents and achievements of individuals who have left a lasting mark on the country. President Zelensky and First Lady Olena Zelenska’s recognition of these legends serves as a source of inspiration for future generations, as Ukraine continues to thrive and shine on the world stage.
