Ukraine Oleksiy Mamkin

My Work in Ukraine

After Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, my compatriots and I wanted to help people who found themselves in difficult situations as a result of the war. Therefore, we began working as drivers transporting humanitarian aid. Working on these humanitarian missions, and travelling to the frontline with my colleagues is something I find really rewarding. I am enthusiastic and motivated to help the people affected by Russia’s war on Ukraine.  

The Dangers of Humanitarian Missions

One of my first trips on a humanitarian mission left a significant imprint on my mind. We were delivering aid to a small town called Orikhove in the Zaporizhzhia Region. While we were unloading the humanitarian cargo, the city came under heavy shelling. We all went immediately to the nearest shelter and stayed there for about an hour until the shelling ended. Thankfully we were all ok, but this incident will be hard to forget.  

Ensuring Convoys Run Smoothly

Road travel is definitely a challenge in Ukraine at the moment, and the state of the roads is not always very good. This is a big test for drivers carrying humanitarian cargo as the cargo must be delivered safely and you must also ensure that the truck isn’t damaged in the process. Most importantly, you have to keep yourself and your colleagues safe. Making sure everyone completes the mission alive is always the priority. 

When delivering cargo without OCHA or UNDSS accompaniment the risks are higher, and we are particularly careful with security measures. We wear bullet-proof vests, assess the security situation and learn about the region prior to the mission. We keep in touch with colleagues or escorts using landline walkie-talkies installed in the trucks, as well as mobile walkie-talkies outside. Stationary walkie-talkies are very reliable and high-quality but mobile ones are less reliable, they only work in close proximity and are hard to hear due to the bad signal.  

What it Takes To Be a Driver

In my opinion, for this job you need to have previous experience as a truck driver; the most important skills are the ability to navigate in extreme conditions, to think clearly and stay focused if someone needs your help. Being able to carry out small repairs on the road when necessary is essential. Also to be kind, polite and a role model to follow is very important, as we work to help other people. 

I believe that after the territorial integrity of Ukraine is restored, it will be rebuilt and its inhabitants will live in peace and harmony.  

My Life Outside of Work

Outside of work, I spend all my time with my family. We like to spend time outdoors, going for a walk in the forest or to the river.   

I believe that after the territorial integrity of Ukraine is restored, it will be rebuilt and its inhabitants will live in peace and harmony.