Launched in 2025 by the civic initiative Holka to mark Kyiv Day, “My Dear Kyiv” is a collaborative authorial project by journalist Nataliya Sokolenko and Serhiy Kostianchuk, founder of the Museum of Outstanding Kyivites. The first guest of the project was writer Svitlana Povaliaieva.
The goal of “My Dear Kyiv” is to build a strong community in Kyiv – one that fosters a shared sense of identity among its residents and deepens their awareness of the importance of protecting the capital’s cultural heritage, historical memory, and green spaces. Ultimately, this community is expected to influence decision-makers and advocate for thoughtful, sustainable urban development that preserves the essence of Kyiv.
“Kyivites are like chestnut trees. They bloom beautifully but they can be prickly too,”
notes Mykola Hnatovskyi, Judge at the European Court of Human Rights.
Parisians have Le Parisien, Berliners have the Berliner, and New Yorkers have the New Yorker. Now, our capital has “My Dear Kyiv”.
There was a time when many of Ukraine’s leading media outlets had dedicated sections focused solely on Kyiv, but most of them disappeared even before the full-scale invasion began. This has deeply affected Kyiv’s communities, making them more fragmented and less visible in the media.
What matters to us are not only the stories of our city but also the solutions to the challenges our capital faces.
The project’s co-author is Serhiy Kostianchuk, founder of the Museum of Outstanding Kyivites.
Before our eyes, a new history is being written. We must not miss this historical moment – we must contribute to shaping Kyivites’ identity and take care of the future of our past, starting today.
It’s important to remember that the capital has given the world, and not just Ukraine, a great number of remarkable individuals. Kyiv also has more sister cities than any other municipality in the country.
Media partners of the project include Poglyad, Glavcom, Espreso, Vikna-Novyny (STB), and the Historical Channel (YouTube channel of Channel 5).
The project is implemented on a volunteer basis. You can support it using the following details:
IBAN: UA743052990000026003000146113
EDRPOU: 45393881
Recipient: NGO “HOLKA”
The Network of Active Citizens
The Network of Active Citizens (NAC) is a project aimed at developing leadership in the regions to conduct advocacy campaigns at the local and national level, which are aimed, in particular, at protecting green areas, cultural and archaeological heritage.
The Holka civil initiative assists act...
