On February 2, participants of the charitable initiative School for Teenagers: The Future of Ukraine visited the Babyn Yar National Historical and Memorial Reserve. During their visit, they took part in a guided tour of the memorial site and explored the exhibition "A Century of Ukrainian-Jewish History: Photographs and Stories 1920–2024".

The "Future of Ukraine" project aims to inspire young people by introducing them to the stories of remarkable individuals and their contributions to society. Among its participants are teenagers from across Ukraine, including children of internally displaced persons, servicemembers, orphans, and those who have lost one or both parents.

During the tour, head of the International Relations Sector Iryna Myzak provided an in-depth account of the tragic events that took place at Babyn Yar. She emphasized that this site stands as a symbol of one of the most horrific crimes of the 20th century — the mass executions of civilians, including Jews, Roma, Ukrainians, and other persecuted groups. The teenagers learned about the lives of those who perished at Babyn Yar and reflected on the necessity of preserving historical memory.

Following the memorial tour, the participants visited the exhibition "A Century of Ukrainian-Jewish History: Photographs and Stories 1920–2024," created by the Centropa Institute for Jewish History. Displayed in the "Living Memory" exhibition center, which is part of the Babyn Yar Reserve, the exhibit features rare photographs and personal stories that document a century of Ukrainian-Jewish coexistence.

Rosa Tapanova, Director of the Babyn Yar National Historical and Memorial Reserve, led the group through the exhibition and spoke about the vital role of engaging young people in historical dialogue:

"Young people who question history today will shape the future tomorrow. We see in their eyes the moment of realization—why silence is dangerous, why the truth must be spoken, and why memory is not just about the past but also about the future. These teenagers will one day write history themselves, and we are honored to stand beside them as they take their first steps toward understanding".

The exhibition "A Century of Ukrainian-Jewish History: Photographs and Stories 1920–2024" will remain open until February 28, 2025, at the "Living Memory" exhibition center (46A Yurii Illienko St., Kyiv). Visiting hours: 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Admission is free.

The Babyn Yar National Historical and Memorial Reserve welcomes visitors to its exhibitions and programs, which encourage a deeper understanding of history and its enduring impact on the present and future.