Innovating for the Future: Razom for Ukraine and Himera Radios

Published: October 6, 2024

Since 2022, Razom has delivered over $100 million worth of humanitarian aid and programming in Ukraine. When procuring and delivering life-saving aid and technologies, we prioritize buying items made in Ukraine. We are dedicated to advancing Ukraine’s economy and technological potential by purchasing and distributing innovative Ukrainian-made products that drive progress and save lives. A prime example is Razom’s role as “early-adopter” of Himera radios, cutting-edge communication technology developed by Ukrainian engineers.

Supporting Life-Saving Technology
Himera radios are designed to ensure reliable communication in emergency scenarios. These high-quality devices provide dependable connections in challenging conditions, making them essential for first responders. Razom has purchased more than 2100 Himera radios, playing a meaningful role in launching this life-saving technology, which is now making waves in international markets.

Recently, Himera presented their latest G1 Pro L radios, and our Razom team had the opportunity to test them. The field tests were highly successful, confirming the reliability and effectiveness of Himera radios.

The success of Himera showcases how Ukrainian developers create products that compete globally and positively impact the economy. Misha Rudominski, Himera’s co-founder, emphasized the importance of our support: “We are incredibly grateful to Razom. Their support has allowed us to continue developing new versions of our radios, significantly enhancing our capabilities.”

📹 Watch our interview with Misha Rudominski to learn more about Himera’s development and work with Razom:

Impact on Emergency Response and Economic Growth
Himera radios are engineered to meet the demands of modern emergencies, including field and disaster scenarios. Their durability, multifunctionality, and reliability make them indispensable for first responders, volunteers, and civilians. Beyond their immediate applications, Himera radios contribute to the growth of Ukraine’s high-tech sector, creating jobs and inspiring other start-ups.

When Razom delivers on our program goals, we make an effort to “buy Ukrainian” because we believe that supporting local innovation is significant for Ukraine’s economic growth. By purchasing goods and services from domestic producers, we preserve jobs, stimulate local business development, and strengthen the national economy. Supporting Himera radios is a step towards contributing to a secure, prosperous, and democratic Ukraine.

Explore more about Himera at himeratech.com.

To support Razom’s efforts and help Ukraine, please donate today.

Razom for Ukraine Named in Forbes Ukraine’s Top 10 List of Nonprofits

Published: September 25, 2024

We’re proud to announce that Forbes Ukraine has ranked Razom for Ukraine 8th in its list of the Top 50 nonprofit organizations in Ukraine for 2023. This recognition highlights our ongoing efforts in providing humanitarian aid, supporting Ukraine’s civil society, and promoting Ukrainian culture worldwide.

Since the full-scale invasion, Razom has grown from an all-volunteer organization of dedicated activists to a community of 222,000+ supporters around the world. Together, we’ve delivered vital medical supplies, communication gear, evacuation transport, and more to Ukrainian heroes.

Our work spans five key areas:

Heroes: Delivering life-saving aid to first responders and frontline medics.

Health: Strengthening Ukraine’s healthcare system to serve people now and after victory.

Relief: Investing in grassroots NGOs that supply aid to vulnerable communities.

Advocacy: Advancing legislation and policy for Ukraine’s victory.

Connect: Promoting the vibrancy of Ukrainian voices through education, volunteering, and the arts.

We are honored to be recognized for our impact during such a critical time and remain committed to supporting Ukraine. Every donation brings us closer to a stronger, democratic Ukraine.

Join us today and support our mission!

Razom Delivers 11 Mobile Medical Units to Save Lives on the Front Lines

Published: September 18, 2024

Razom for Ukraine has provided 11 mobile medical stabilization units to Ukrainian first responders. These units provide immediate medical care right on the front lines, saving up to 100 lives per month. The project, called “Stabnet,” was made possible in collaboration with French partners.

This particular project addresses the critical need for rapid, on-the-ground medical care in hot zones. With these units, military medics can stabilize the injured and save lives in active war areas. Our partnership with French partner organizations provided not only co-funding but also key expertise in building mobile medical systems.

Taras Hatalyak, Razom Heroes Program Director, emphasizes:
“In these challenging times, mobile medical units are a lifeline for soldiers on the front lines. Each unit represents a chance for survival for those who are injured while defending our future. But we need more of these units. Your support is vital — every donation can help save a life.”

These mobile units are compact but powerful. Equipped with everything from infusion systems to respiratory equipment and medications, they can be deployed in minutes, allowing medics to provide critical care when every second counts.

“Each unit saves up to 100 lives per month in combat conditions, proving how essential they are. Unlike larger hospitals that can’t operate near the front lines, these mobile units can be positioned right where the need is most urgent,” said Gennadiy Zabolotnyi, who heads Razom’s mobile medical project.

Working with international partners, including France, not only provides technical and financial support but also demonstrates global solidarity with Ukraine. This coalitionis a powerful example of how collective efforts can save lives.

Razom has already delivered 11 mobile units to the frontlines, but the need is still critical. At least 50 more are required to meet the ongoing demands. With the war continuing, every additional unit represents another opportunity to save lives and help Ukraine persevere.

Thanks to cutting-edge technology and charitable contributions, Ukrainian soldiers have a better chance at survival. But these units are more than just medical stations — they are a symbol of the strength and commitment of everyone working toward Ukraine’s victory.

Together, we can make a difference and help Ukraine emerge stronger.

Razom Relief: From Summer to School

Published: September 18, 2024

As the school year begins and autumn approaches, we reflect on the impact of Razom Relief’s initiatives that have provided needed support, healthcare, and educational opportunities to children and communities across Ukraine. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, many have had the chance to rest, rejuvenate, and engage in activities that foster growth and resilience. We’re excited to share inspiring stories from those who have benefited from Razom’s grants and how these initiatives have helped prepare them for the new season and school year.

Center for Psychological and Humanitarian Support in the Chernivtsi Region

The Center for Psychological and Humanitarian Support (CPHS) for internally displaced people in Vyzhnytsia, Chernivtsi region, has been running several successful projects, including a social enterprise:a bakery. Razom is proud to partner with CPHS on a second joint project that has once again exceeded all expectations.

With a grant from Razom, the center sponsored a summer camp where children immersed themselves in adventures and learning, acquiring essential skills like orienteering, fire-starting, pitching tents, and cooking over open flames. The camp taught them teamwork, mutual support, and responsibility. The unforgettable experiences—new friendships, night hikes with flashlights, and laughter around campfires—served as a test of resilience and a perfect preparation for the new school year.

Creating Opportunities in Poltava

The NGO Sustainable Development Platform Perspective in the Poltava region, with Razom’s support, established a community center that has become a hub for children and youth. This space aims to empower young people by providing new knowledge, building connections, and fostering youth activism. Guided by mentors, the youth developed operational regulations and a strategic plan for the center’s growth in 2024-2025.

In just two months, the project reached over 2,500 people and hosted more than 60 events, including training sessions, workshops, physical activities, and community-building excursions, offering much-needed emotional relief and skill development.

Ukraine South Liberty: A Lifeline in Chornomorsk

In the southern regions, the Ukraine South Liberty organization in Chornomorsk, Odesa region, worked tirelessly to support children’s health and well-being. With a grant from Razom, they launched two critical projects: an IDP (Internally Displaced People) center and a children’s center. The IDP center offers services like career counseling, psychological support, IT training, and cultural events, while the children’s center focuses on holistic development through activities promoting inclusivity, gender equality, and psychological well-being.

Building Ukraine Together Youth Camp in the North

Supported by a Razom grant, Building Ukraine Together (BUR) gathered young participants from across Ukraine to aid in infrastructure restoration, create spaces for learning and connection, and support internally displaced persons. At the BUR camp in Ladanska, Chernihiv region, young people worked to build a youth center, helping the community recover from occupation and fostering a sense of hope and renewal.

As we embrace the fall season, these stories of readiness for the new school year and the positive impact of Razom’s grants remind us of the power of community and the difference we can make together. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our donors—your continued support sustains these efforts, bringing hope and renewal to countless lives.

Stay tuned for more updates and stories from Razom Relief!

Razom Volunteers Targeted in Airstrikes While Delivering Aid in Sumy Region

Published: September 13, 2024

On the morning of September 13, Razom’s volunteers came under heavy airstrikes while delivering humanitarian aid to Yampil Hospital in the Sumy region. As they were unloading supplies, two air-dropped bombs (KABs) exploded just 100 meters from the hospital. Thankfully, the volunteers and hospital staff escaped serious injury. However, the hospital’s windows were shattered, and vehicles, along with the much-needed aid, were damaged by shrapnel.

Immediately after the attack, the hospital began receiving injured civilians, mainly women, children, and the elderly. Under extremely difficult conditions, the medical staff provided urgent care, even relocating to the hospital’s basement for safety.

Yampil, located just 7 miles from the Russian border, has been enduring nearly daily airstrikes, according to local residents.

In response to the worsening situation in Sumy and nearby regions, Razom for Ukraine launched an emergency program to supply hospitals in Sumy with essential medications, orthopedic equipment, and other critical materials. With today’s delivery to Yampil and previous deliveries to Sumy, Khotin, Shostka, and Hlukhiv, Razom has now provided nearly 10 tons of humanitarian aid, valued at $200,000.

Razom needs your help!

Innocent Ukrainians and volunteers are being targeted while delivering humanitarian aid. Let’s also remember the recent Red Cross tragedy on September 12, where three workers lost their lives in a similar attack.

Support Razom for Ukraine to replace the damaged vehicle and continue delivering life-saving aid across Ukraine. Every contribution saves lives!

Razom for Ukraine and The Howard G. Buffett Foundation: Delivering Lifesaving Medical Kits to Ukrainian Rescue Teams (DSNS)

Published: September 11, 2024

With each missile strike in Ukraine, time is critical. The State Emergency Service (SES) of Ukraine is usually the first to arrive on the scene, even before ambulances. These rescue workers push through the wreckage, to deal with the chaos and devastation, to provide critical aid. Their quick actions mean the difference between life and death for those injured in these horrific attacks.

In a recent tragedy in Poltava, a missile strike leveled building and claimed 58 lives. Over 300 people were injured, many critically. DSNS (SES) responders were the first on-site, acting with precision and urgency — applying tourniquets, stabilizing the wounded, and saving countless lives.

Yet, their courage alone isn’t enough. Without the proper medical supplies, even the most heroic efforts can fall short of intent. This is where international support becomes a lifeline.

Thanks to the partnership between The Howard G. Buffett Foundation and Razom for Ukraine, 4,300 lifesaving medical kits are being delivered to Ukrainian rescue teams. These kits aren’t just supplies, they are essential tools that enable SES responders to perform life-saving interventions in the most dangerous conditions.

Distributed to SES units across the country, these medical kits will be on the frontlines where they are needed most — Russian missile strikes can happen anywhere, at any time. Each kit represents hope and a second chance for those caught in the crossfire of war.

These first responders risk everything, day in and day out, to protect others. The support from The Howard G. Buffett Foundation ensures they have the tools to continue their vital work. It’s a partnership that saves lives.

And this is just one element in a larger effort. For Ukraine’s first responders, who risk their lives in the aftermath of every attack to continue their life-saving work, our ongoing support is crucial.

Ukraine is not alone in this battle. The global response has shown that together, we are stronger. International grants, humanitarian aid, and critical medical donations like these are making a real difference. Thanks to initiatives like those from The Howard G. Buffett Foundation, the path to victory becomes clearer every day.

Together, we are stronger!

Impact of “20 Days in Mariupol” Across U.S. Campuses

Published: September 6, 2024

In the lead-up to its historic Oscar win in 2024, 20 Days in Mariupol garnered remarkable support from Razom Connect, specifically through its Razom Cinema and Ukraine on Campus projects. Partnering with PBS Distribution, we successfully distributed 50 DVDs of this poignant film to universities across the United States. This initiative not only broadened the film’s reach but also ensured its lasting impact through donations to campus libraries.

The screenings of 20 Days in Mariupol extended beyond the university campuses where they were held, igniting a wave of empathy and activism. This powerful documentary, directed by Pulitzer Prize-winning Ukrainian journalist Mstyslav Chernov, became a tool for profound reflection on the human experience during crises. Through these screenings, art demonstrated its transformative power to foster understanding, compassion, and hope amid adversity.

We also provided a screening toolkit to aid participants in planning and promoting their events. This toolkit included pre-made graphics and suggested captions for social media to amplify the impact of the film.

Event Highlights:

Harvard University: Featured Mariupol survivor Alina Beskrovna, who brought artifacts from the war, offering students a tangible connection to the devastation.
Montclair State University: Hosted a discussion with Michael Levdanski and Marianna Tretiak, providing insights from those actively aiding Ukraine.
University of Wisconsin: Led by student Anna Kovalchuk, focused on personal connections to the war and its impact on the university community.
University of Minnesota: Included survivors and Consul General Beth Richardson. Artem, a 17-year-old Mariupol survivor featured in the film, spoke to a large audience about his experiences.
City College of New York: Partnered with The Documentary Forum for a high-attendance screening, featuring influential cultural activist Daria Kolomiec.

The response from students was overwhelmingly positive. Many expressed deep emotional reactions and gained a more meaningful understanding of the war. The film effectively challenged false narratives and provided a sobering view of life during war, inspiring empathy and connection across all 50 campuses.

Impact Report from DVD distribution to University campuses

Download

Empowering Ukraine’s Heroes with Emergency Response Medical Training

Published: September 5, 2024

In times of crisis, having the right skills can mean the difference between life and death. At Razom for Ukraine, we believe that everyone should be prepared to act in emergencies, which is why we’ve provided our emergency response medical training program to the Prosecutor General’s Office of Ukraine.

These professionals frequently operate in high-risk areas — whether documenting war crimes, working at missile strike sites, or combatting criminal activities in hot zones. Their work is essential, but it also places them in dangerous situations where immediate action is often required.

Training for Real-World Scenarios

Our training began with a focus on the specific challenges these staff members face. Over three days, they received both theoretical and hands-on instruction, learning essential emergency procedures. The final day involved realistic simulations, during which participants practiced their new skills under stress-inducing conditions, closely mirroring the scenarios they might encounter in the field.

While this three-day course provided a solid foundation, it’s just the beginning. Many participants expressed a desire for further training, recognizing the importance of ongoing education in lifesaving skills. We plan to expand this program to reach even more staff members, particularly those working in frontline areas.

Making a Difference, Together

At Razom for Ukraine, we are proud to support those who play a critical role in the fight for justice and freedom. By equipping Ukrainians with these priceless skills, we aim to make their work safer and empower them to continue serving their country with confidence.

We wish that there wasn’t a need for this kind of preparation but in the event that it must be utilized, we are proud to have contributed to the safety and well-being of these brave individuals. Together, we are making a difference.

Thank you for supporting Razom!

RAZOM CINEMA GRANT REPORT: OKSANA KARPOVYCH’S “INTERCEPTED” – NEW DIRECTORS NEW FILMS 2024

Published: August 29, 2024

Having traveled around the world, collecting international awards along the way, Razom Cinema grantee “Intercepted” has come home for its theatrical release this August. A hearty congratulations to the Oksana and the whole film team with this accomplishment! With this in mind, let’s take it back to the beginning.

For the past 53 years, the Film at Lincoln Center and The Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) have brought together a program of films and filmmakers who speak to the present and anticipate the future of cinema – those who push the envelope in unexpected, striking ways. This is done under the auspices of the New Directors New Films (N/D) festival. In recent years, Ukrainian films started to populate the N/D line up and it’s no surprise to see groundbreaking films like “Stop Zemlia”, “Pamfir”, and now “Intercepted” take their well deserved spots as alumni of the festival.

For the North American premiere, Razom Cinema supported the “Intercepted” film team to bring director Oksana Karpovych, producer Olha Beshkmelnytsina, and composer Olesia Onykiienko to the premiere screening. For a film that exposes so much and reflects on the Russian imperial behavior with its complete disregard for civilian lives, it’s important to have the filmmakers be there to guide the audiences through thoughts and questions.

Since February 2022, the Security Service of Ukraine has intercepted and recorded thousands of phone calls made between Russian soldiers on the front line in Ukraine, to their family and relatives. Those phone calls were made public to expose the true mentality of those on Ukrainian land, committing war crimes. After reviewing hours of these calls, Oksana and her team came up with what now is an award-winning documentary “Intercepted” – a photojournalistic and audibly heavy report of what has happened in Ukraine.

If you weren’t able to catch the screening, make sure to listen in to the discussion with Oksana Karpovych at New Directors New Films.

Following the successful screening in New York, the “Intercepted” team was able to engage with various media and received several positive reviews from the likes of IndieWire, Variety, Filmmaker Magazine, and others. We look forward to seeing just how far the film will go in the coming fall, so keep an eye out for it!

Razom Cinema aims to promote and celebrate the vibrancy of Ukrainian voices and assure a strong representation of Ukraine on various important stages. From grants, partnerships, and programming, we unlock possibilities such as the ones listed above – bring Ukrainian creators to important spaces to meet, partner, and do with international talent.

Thank you to our donors who made this possible, and everyone who supports Razom.

From Berlinale to Cannes – Razom Cinema Grant Report: Tetiana Khodakivska “The Blue Sweater with a Yellow Hole”

Published: August 9, 2024

“THANK YOU,

You can not imagine how much impact this grant has brought for our project
“The Blue Sweater with a Yellow Hole”

– Tetiana Khodakivska’s note

With the recent news from the Sundance Institute announcing their 2024 Documentary Fund Grantees, Razom Cinema congratulates Tetiana Khodakivska and her team for being part of the selected group. This important documentary highlights stories of Ukrainian children Kira, Taisa, and Artem as they paint their memories about time in Russian ‘re-education’ camps. In honor of this news, Razom Cinema wants to highlight the achievements of the grant that was provided to the film’s team to attend the industry events at Berlinale, CPH:DOX, and Cannes Doc festivals.

The Razom Travel Grant helped present “The Blue Sweater with a Yellow Hole” documentary in development at three events:

Berlinale, Berlin International Film Festival
CPH:DOX
Marché du Film, Cannes Doc

Thanks to the grant, the team secured a sale-agent, found an Executive Producer, co-production in two European countries, received one $12,000 Grant and applied for three more grants overall for $200,000. The filmmakers also have found the fiscal sponsor for the project that brings further opportunity for funding of the film to bring it to completion.

Berlinale, Berlin International Film Festival

During Berlinale, the director participated in an advocacy event organized by Terre Des Hommes, a children’s rights organization, where she discussed the issue of children’s deportation and indoctrination in front of 500 people and presented a 3-minute video. Since the event focused on the rights of young people, it was an excellent opportunity to raise awareness about the ongoing issue of children’s deportation and indoctrination. Among the meetings at the Berlinale Market, the most successful one was with a representative from CAT&Docs Sales, which led to a deal memo with this sales company.

CPH:DOX

During CPH:Forum, the documentary was selected for a pitch in front of 2,000 industry representatives. Over the following two days, the team had 15 meetings with broadcasters, impact strategists, potential co-producers, and funds such as the Swedish Film Institute, Finnish Film Foundation, Chicken & Egg Pictures, and representatives from Berlinale, Bloomberg Philanthropies, and Points North Institute. During that time, they also engaged with potential advocacy event partners like Artist Moving Image and Kunsthal Charlottenborg, while sharing their story with The Guardian and The New York Times.

A meeting with Catapult Film Fund resulted in an invitation to apply for their grant, which is currently being considered.). The most successful meeting was with Impact Partners Fund, where the team was invited to submit a grant application for $150,000.

Another great meeting was with Women Make Movies (WMM), which, among other activities, represents projects as a fiscal sponsor for selected films. Although they were initially skeptical, having seen many Ukrainian projects in recent years, the meeting was very positive. They understood the project’s importance, and the film team is currently signing a contract with WMM. Other connections resulted in securing a $35,000 grant from the Elsa & Peter Soderberg Charitable Foundation, which only works through a fiscal sponsor.

One of the meetings resulted in new members joining the documentary team. Jane Mote was invited to be the team’s fundraising producer, as she was deeply moved by the story and truly wants to help spread awareness about Ukraine and the unlawful relocation of children. Jane works as a consultant for The Whickers Fund and knows many inspiring people with whom the team hopes to collaborate.

Marché du Film, Cannes Doc

Marché du Film selected the documentary for the spotlight section at the festival, organizing and curating one-on-one and group meetings for the team throughout the week. The Razom Cinema grant enabled the director and producer to both attend. Tetiana also won the Producer’s Network Badge and participated in the Producer’s Network activities, which were very beneficial for making industry connections. Additionally, she was selected to give an inspirational speech during the morning boost program.

The team met with the programmer of the Movies That Matter Festival, which specializes in impact-oriented films, the market manager of IDFA, One World International Human Rights Festival, and the head of Industry at Visions du Réel. All were impressed with the documentary and connected the team with their fund, to which the filmmakers have since applied . Additionally, the team met with Al Jazeera Documentary Channel, the programmer of the Sundance Film Festival, and the head of Industry at Ji.Hlava IDFF. In Cannes, the team had a meeting with an IMS (International Media Support) representative, resulting in a $12,000 grant.

Razom Cinema aims to promote and celebrate the vibrancy of Ukrainian voices and assure a strong representation of Ukraine at various industry events. Our travel grants unlock possibilities such as the ones listed above – bring Ukrainian creators to important spaces to meet, partner, and do with international talent.