Mariupol lives in our hearts

On the City Day eve, Mariupol residents from different parts of Ukraine gathered together. Despite the distance, we were united by a teleconference between the "I'Mariupol" centres, which gave us a sense of unity and home.

We sent greetings to each other, shared memories of our hometown of Mariupol, grieved for what we had lost and supported each other at the same time. It was a day when everyone felt that we are a community, we are there for each other, even if we are separated by hundreds of kilometres.

Entertainment and masterclasses were prepared for children. Adults could enjoy performances by vocal groups, singing songs together and cooking. Everything was there: sadness, smiles and faith in the future.

"It was a meeting filled with warm and sincere emotions. We remembered our hometown with faith in a better future," said Iryna from Rivne.

"Mariupol is my native land. It is where the sea is, where my parents, friends and favourite places are. I am waiting to hear that Mariupol is Ukraine," said Yaroslava from Khmelnytskyi.

This day reminded us: Mariupol is not just a city, but also the people who keep its unbreakable spirit alive, no matter where they are. We believe the time will come when we will all be able to celebrate this day at home, in our free Ukrainian Mariupol