Larysa Fesenko

Larysa Fesenko is a Ukrainian educator and school principal known for her unwavering resistance to Russian occupation during the war in Ukraine. At 62 years old, she demonstrated exceptional leadership by refusing to collaborate with occupying forces when ordered to prepare her teachers for a curriculum shift to the Russian educational system. After enduring threats and imprisonment for her defiance, Larysa's story has become a powerful symbol of resilience and the importance of standing up for one’s principles. She currently resides in Kharkiv, having fled her war-torn village, Lisova Stinka. In recognition of her bravery, Larysa will receive the Anna Lindh Prize in Stockholm on June 16, 2025, marking her first trip outside Ukraine.