PORTRAIT OF YANA TITARENKO
Yana Titarenko’s journey began as a dedicated member of Odessa’s civil society, where her focus was on ecology and nature preservation. However, 2014 became a turning point in her life. During the Revolution of Dignity, Yana emerged as one of the core organizers of Odessa’s Euromaidan, helping lead her community in a time of profound national change.
When war erupted later that year, Yana stepped up, dedicating herself to supporting the Armed Forces of Ukraine as a volunteer—a mission she continues to this day. Her unwavering dedication and experience did not go unnoticed. In 2023, she was invited to take on the role of gender advisor to the Commander of the Naval Forces.
She regularly visits servicewomen stationed in military units near combat zones, ensuring their concerns are heard and addressed. They know they can always reach her—day or night—with any issue requiring attention. With direct access to leadership, Yana has significant opportunities to resolve issues promptly, ensuring that the challenges faced by servicewomen are not just acknowledged but effectively addressed.
Yana has a deeply personal mission—to stand with the families of the missing, former prisoners of war, including women who have returned from captivity, and those mourning the loss of loved ones. While the Naval Forces provide comprehensive support as part of a collective effort, Yana dedicates herself to contributing in every way she can—being present, offering assistance, and ensuring that no one is left feeling forgotten. Within the Naval Forces, there is an unspoken motto: The missing are not forgotten. Yana upholds this mission in every aspect of her work, turning words into action.
Yana believes that a truly effective gender advisor in the Armed Forces doesn’t just wait for calls for help. To her, this role is not about reacting but about actively reaching out, ensuring that every servicewoman knows she has someone in her corner, ready to listen, support, and act.