"Invictus Games" in Ladyzhyn: the strength of veterans, community support, and unity for the future

This is not just a sporting event — it is an example of how the power of spirit, the support of comrades and the community help veterans and military personnel return to civilian life.

The sports event took place within the framework of the "MHP Poruch" military and veteran support program, thanks to Vinnytsia Poultry Farm MHP, the "MHP-Hromadi" Charitable Foundation, the Ministry of Veterans Affairs, the Strongman Federation of Ukraine, and the Ladyzhyn City Council. 176 veterans of the Russian-Ukrainian war from various parts of Ukraine came to Ladyzhyn.

Veterans and military personnel competed in strength disciplines:

• barbell press for repetitions (30/60 kg and 50/100 kg),

• Concept-2 rowing machine,

• kettlebell snatch (16 and 24 kg),

• air bike exercises.

A separate zone was the invastrong location for participants with disabilities. The competition began with a minute of silence in memory of fallen soldiers and the performance of the National Anthem. Then the square turned into an arena of strength and mutual support. Families, comrades, and hundreds of Ladyzhyn residents sincerely applauded each appearance on the platform, cheered with words, and chanted the names of the participants.

One of the competition participants was Oleksandr Shumlianskyi, who worked as a forklift driver at the Vinnytsia Poultry Farm before the full-scale war.

In February 2022, he joined the defense of the country as part of the 65th Separate Mechanized Brigade. In January 2023, during battles in Donetsk region, Oleksandr received a severe injury and completely lost his sight. Despite this, thanks to rehabilitation and the support of "MHP Poruch", the veteran returned to work, mastered special equipment, and actively engages in sports. Today, he is preparing to acquire a new profession as a masseur to help other veterans regain their strength. Oleksandr's path is proof that even after the most difficult trials, one can find a new purpose and dream.

Oleksandr Shumlianskyi with a comrade

The competitions in Ladyzhyn became possible thanks to the "MHP Poruch" veteran support program, which the company has been implementing for over a year. Vinnytsia Poultry Farm and the "MHP-Hromadi" charitable foundation acted as partners.

Almost 7,000 people work at the Vinnytsia Poultry Farm, and 784 of our colleagues are currently defending Ukraine in the Armed Forces. We are proud of them and do everything to make them feel that the company is by their side. We create adapted workplaces, support rehabilitation, and help them find themselves in new conditions. Because a strong army relies on a strong rear. And our factory is exactly such a support

The "MHP-Hromadi" Charitable Foundation has been working alongside people for ten years, helping communities develop and become stronger. Today, one of our main priorities is supporting veterans and their families. Because war changes everyone's life, and it is important that those who defended the country feel care and support after returning. "Zvytyaha Neskorenykh" is not just a sports competition, it is about restoring strength, about feeling like a team, about the faith that our defenders and all Ukrainians need so much.

Serhii Koniushok, President of the Strongman Federation of Ukraine:

— In these competitions, there are no defeats. There are no "stronger" or "weaker" ones here. There is a team here — of veterans, military personnel, coaches, families, and entire communities. "Zvytyaha Neskorenykh" is a way to unite people around a common goal: to support those who return from the war, to give them faith and show that they are needed by society. When I see how every approach to the barbell or kettlebell is supported, I understand: this is true unity that makes us strong as a nation.

The "MHP Poruch" program acts as a comprehensive system of support for military personnel, veterans, and their families. It combines medical and psychological assistance, legal support, the creation of adapted workplaces, and veteran spaces. A separate area is sports and rehabilitation activities that help veterans regain strength and find new motivation. The program works constantly, 24/7, and proves that supporting defenders is not a one-time action, but systematic work, thanks to which a strong rear and a strong country are formed.

Strong country — strong rear

"Zvytyaha Neskorenykh" in Ladyzhyn proved: sport is a tool for recovery and therapy, and the support of the community and business makes this path possible. When military personnel, veterans, families, and businesses act together — a strong rear and a strong country are formed.