Before the war, many people in Ukraine lived peaceful lives, working and developing their professional skills. One of them was Iryna Polyakova — a graphic designer with over 15 years of experience. She successfully worked on numerous projects, taught graphic design courses, and educated children. Iryna and Ruslan Klymenko co-created the brand for Ukraine's obstacle races called "Wild Race." She also collaborated with Spartan Ukraine, developing unique visual concepts that inspired her clients. Additionally, Iryna actively worked with charitable organizations, conducting art classes for children with special needs, helping them develop creative skills and express themselves through art.
When the war began, her life changed dramatically. She remained in her home in Vorzel, near Bucha, and was unable to leave due to a fuel shortage. Soon, her town was occupied. Iryna and her neighbours were cut off from the world for 12 days — without communication, electricity, water, or heat. She was the only one with a mobile service, which allowed her to stay in touch with the outside world. Despite all the dangers, she ventured out to charge her phone and gather news, uniting people in a shared fight for survival. The residents gathered in one of the three remaining apartments, trying to support each other. They were lucky to have gas, allowing them to cook and stay warm, while others had to cook over open fires in the cold.
When Russian troops entered the town, fear and tension intensified. Iryna hid at a friend's place when the occupiers took over her apartment, breaking down the gates and driving a tank into the yard. Waiting for rescue became a difficult ordeal, but finally, there was hope — a green corridor was arranged. Iryna gathered the neighbours who wanted to leave and headed with them to Bilohorodka. Previous escape attempts had ended tragically — cars were shot at, regardless of whether children or sick people were inside.
Iryna continued her journey through western Ukraine to Poland, where she was supported by her Belarusian friends, who had fled their country due to political persecution. In Poland, she received a Canadian visa and moved to Canada. There, friends helped her settle and find work.
Upon arriving in London, Ontario, Iryna began working as a child educator, using her first degree, and became involved in volunteer activities. In Ukraine, she actively collaborated with the organization "Blagomai," served as a mentor at their conferences, and conducted art classes for children with autism. In Canada, she organized art classes for children in cooperation with the London Arts Council, continuing to help young talents grow. Additionally, Iryna founded the London Ukrainian Reading Club, where she gathered the community, organized meetings, and helped preserve Ukrainian culture and literature among local residents.
Despite all the trials, Iryna did not give up. After the harrowing days of occupation, she did not lose her home — it was repaired. Now, a military volunteer from Poland is living in her apartment for free. Iryna continues to teach children graphic design, actively participates in volunteer initiatives, and seeks new opportunities for professional development. She remains active in community work, passing on her knowledge and experience to new generations.
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