Metinvest Integrated Iron Ore Plants continue the long-standing tradition of holding celebratory gatherings for retired employees who have reached the milestone ages of 80, 90, 95, and 100. Recently, the management honoured those who stood at the origins of the enterprises, worked there for decades, and devoted their lives to the demanding mining industry.
More than 50 retirees attended the celebrations. Unfortunately, some of the birthday celebrants – especially those turning 90 and 95 – were unable to participate due to health issues. With their consent, gift certificates were presented to their family members, who are currently caring for them.
Each of the honoured guests has made a significant contribution to the achievements and success of their respective enterprise. Among them are pioneers who played a key role in the development and growth of the enterprises, as well as active members of public and community organizations. Many continue to participate in events organized by the enterprises today. Some are former trade union leaders, while others, despite their venerable age, still contribute in whatever way they can to supporting Ukraine's defenders.
On behalf of the enterprise administration, the anniversary celebrants were greeted by HR Director Oleksandr Shulika, representatives of the local branches of the Trade Union of Metallurgists and Miners of Ukraine, Tetiana Sheludko, Head of Metinvest's Corporate Pensioners Organisation, and Natalia Fedorko, Director of the "Respectable Age" Charitable Foundation.
"Today I have the honour of expressing our gratitude for your contribution, your achievements, and everything you have accomplished," said Oleksandr SHULIKA in his address to the guests. "It is an honour to personally congratulate each of you on your remarkable milestone birthdays. Thank you, dear friends, for laying a solid foundation for future generations. Thank you for remaining part of our proud mining family. As professionals and witnesses to numerous challenges and victories, you continue to inspire us and the younger generations of miners. Most of you also began your careers during difficult times for our enterprises. We appreciate you and are proud of you! And we wish you good health!"
Among the guests was Anastasiy DRANNOY, who recently celebrated his 90th birthday. He spent nearly 38 years working as a driver in the Railway Office of Northern Iron Ore. His long career of dedicated service earned him numerous awards from both the city and the enterprise.
"I gladly accepted the invitation and came to the gathering, although it is not easy; 90 years is no joke," he said. "It is a wonderful event that brought back memories of my working years and my youth. I always remember those times with joy. I think of my colleagues and how we worked together. Most of them were deeply devoted to their jobs. Thank you for the gift and for remembering us. I wish the entire enterprise team peaceful work and peaceful skies."
Another honoured retiree was 80-year-old Hryhoriy PETROV, a former driver at the Central Iron Ore's Motor Transport Shop. He joined the enterprise at just 16 years old, first learning the trade of a mechanic in the open pit before becoming a driver. He devoted a total of 33 years to the enterprise, earning numerous commendations and prestigious awards for his work transporting employees throughout the open-pit mine.
"I would really love to see the places where I worked again," he said. "I would also like to meet my former colleagues from the shop. Above all, it is heartwarming to know that we are remembered, invited, and given gifts despite these difficult times. It is wonderful that these celebrations continue to be organized."
