"What have you done for Ukraine’s victory?" These were the final words Viktor Gurniak, a Hero of Ukraine, shared on social media. Just days later, he was killed in action while evacuating wounded soldiers in the Luhansk region. Ten years have passed since his death, yet his sister, Olha Gurniak, still struggles to accept his absence.

During fall 2024, Ukraine House had the honor of hosting a remembrance night for Viktor Gurniak. We reflected on Viktor’s remarkable life and legacy as a photographer for leading global news agencies. His unique view of the world lives on in his photographs. As his sister poignantly expressed, "Maybe his body is not here, but his soul remains." She, along with her friend Natalia Panyuk, also spoke about their charitable fund, Viktory for U, created in Viktor’s memory. "I couldn’t save him," Olha said, "but I want to help others survive during the battles."