Kyiv, Ukraine – On September 6th, partners of European leaders, Ukrainian and international dignitaries, and notable celebrities converged in Kyiv for the third edition of the Summit of First Ladies and Gentlemen, a visionary initiative led by Ukraine’s First Lady, Olena Zelenska.
The inaugural gathering in 2021 set out to unite the world’s first ladies and gentlemen with a shared mission: to foster dialogue and discover effective solutions to global humanitarian challenges through soft power, partnership, public diplomacy, the exchange of experiences, and the implementation of collaborative initiatives.
Under the banner of “Mental Health: Fragility and Resilience of the Future,” this year’s summit delved into the pressing concern of the mental well-being of the Ukrainian people amid Russia’s enduring conflict. Notably, it marked the second assembly since the commencement of the full-scale invasion in February 2022.
Distinguished speakers gracing the event included First Lady of Czechia, Eva Pavlova; Estonian First Lady, Sirje Karis; First Gentleman of Slovenia, Ales Musar; Serbian First Lady, Tamara Vucic; and Academy Award-winning French director, Michel Hazanavicius. The renowned British actor and author, Stephen Fry, played a pivotal role as one of the event’s hosts.
Despite the backdrop of Russia’s overnight assault on Kyiv in the lead-up to the summit, the indomitable spirit of the attendees prevailed. The night saw many in the capital kept awake by the haunting sound of air raid sirens and subsequent explosions. Nevertheless, when the day arrived, the audience and speakers radiated energy and warmth, exchanging warm greetings and participating in vibrant discussions.
Even as the shadow of conflict loomed, the Summit of First Ladies and Gentlemen served as a beacon of hope, uniting global leaders and advocates to address the crucial issue of mental health in Ukraine and beyond. President Volodymyr Zelensky and U.S. Secretary of State, Anthony Blinken, made notable appearances, reinforcing the summit’s commitment to tackling pressing humanitarian challenges with diplomacy and resilience.
