Ukraine Vitalii Niemtsev
Vitalii's transition from animal behaviour specialist to humanitarian worker reflects his innate desire to make a difference in the lives of others.
A Journey of Compassion
Vitalii’s heart held another passion – a love for animals. Before joining the humanitarian field, he honed his skills as a Dog Trainer and Animal Behaviour Specialist (Cynologist) in Ukraine, reuniting lost pets with their families. This inherent desire to help others would soon take him down a different path.
Vitalii and his friends couldn’t stand idly by when the conflict in Ukraine began in February 2022. They loaded up their own vehicles with necessities and travelled independently to frontline towns and villages, offering aid to military personnel and civilians. This grassroots effort marked the start of Vitalii’s journey in the humanitarian field, ultimately leading him to join CTG.
Delivering aid under pressure
As a Truck Driver delivering humanitarian aid, Vitalii’s mission is clear: promptly and efficiently assisting those in need. This requires meticulous daily inspections of his vehicle to ensure it’s in optimal condition for the challenging terrain he faces.
Delivering despite danger
The road to delivering aid is dangerous. Destroyed roads and shelling in frontline areas are constant threats. Yet, Vitalii and his fellow humanitarians persevere. Every delay and detour adds precious time, but their mission is steadfast – to get help to those who desperately need it.
I always remember that in any condition, you need to always remain human.
Finding humanity in hardship
The war has undoubtedly left a lasting mark on Vitalii. Witnessing the sudden reversal of fortunes, where people lose everything in an instant, has been a powerful lesson. Status and wealth become meaningless. What truly shines through, he says, is the unwavering spirit of humanity – a willingness to help others, even in the face of difficulty. This, for Vitalii, is a constant reminder – no matter the circumstances, compassion must prevail.
A message for aspiring humanitarians
For those considering working in the humanitarian field, Vitalii’s message is clear: courage and confidence are essential. Be prepared for the unexpected – situations often demand immediate action, leaving little room for hesitation. A deep desire to help others and a strong understanding of the humanitarian sector’s needs are the driving forces that will see you through.
