War veteran and Zaporizhstal employee Yulia Prus has taken part in Heroes Wear Pixel photoshoot.
Zaporizhia has recently hosted a photo exhibition supported by the Department of Veterans’ Policy, showcasing veterans, active military personnel, and their families.
Every image, captured by photographer Serhii Lichkatyi, portrays true heroes – those who once donned military uniforms to defend their country. Heroes are surrounded by their loved ones who always care for and believe in them, support and await them home.
Yulia Prus, a war veteran and Zaporizhstal sinter shop worker, was photographed with her children, Ivan and Marharyta.
“The project and exhibition were a fascinating experience for me and my children. We enjoyed the family photoshoot and the exhibition’s concept, as it beautifully highlights that while we are all different, we share a common value: family. This is what we fight for – both in the war zone and on the home front,” says Yulia PRUS.
Yulia volunteered to join the 110th Separate Brigade of the Territorial Defence Forces of the UAF in March 2022. She took part in active combat in Zaporizhia axis and suffered two concussions.
She prefers not to dwell on her combat experiences, believing it is better to focus on positivity and building a bright future for her children. After being demobilised for family reasons, Yulia joined Zaporizhstal in December 2023 as a dispatcher of the sinter shop. While she has changed from her military uniform into workwear, her commitment to ensuring a bright future for her family and country remains unwavering.
When choosing a workplace, Yulia prioritised several key aspects: secure employment, a social benefits package, and additional support for war veterans, including professional consultations and rehabilitation programmes.
“Zaporizhstal has become my first workplace after leaving the active duty. The job fits me, the team is friendly, and they helped me adapt quickly. It’s important for me to work in an environment where I feel understood, where I can contribute and grow professionally,” Yulia adds.
Metinvest’s enterprises, including Zaporizhstal, have a corporate programme called Hero’s Path: A Veteran Integration Ecosystem, providing continuous support for employees from the moment they are mobilised until their return and reintegration into the workforce. The programme team establishes contact with service members and their families to provide prompt assistance in preparation for deployment. The company provides individual protective gear and financial aid for rehabilitation.
Upon return from the war zone, veterans undergo comprehensive medical check-ups, receive psychological support, treatment, prosthetics, retraining and mentorship, education at Metinvest Polytechnic University, all paid for by the company. The enterprise teams watch educational videos and complete trainings in preparation for welcoming the heroes back.
