I am Karina Pugachova, 45 years old, from Ukraine.

The war compelled me to leave my homeland. Life had become perilous, and
my first priority was to protect my children. Despite the heartache, I chose to leave, to give them a chance for a life of peace and security. With my children and our documents, I packed our entire unknown future into a single

backpack. My home and my heart stayed behind in Ukraine.

Today, I am more self-assured, resilient, and grateful. I have been transformed — I discovered strength in myself I never knew I had. In Bulgaria, I have found new friends, bound by shared experiences, sincerity, and mutual
support. Here, I feel I can be of use, and perhaps even find happiness.