A military culture forum titled “Steely Word” took place in Poltava — an event that brought together veterans, service members, writers, publishers, students, educators, government representatives, and volunteer communities. Aurora also joined the initiative as a partner, supporting the forum’s organization.
The forum continued an initiative that originated during the “POSHUK” book fair, with the 20th Brigade of the National Guard of Ukraine “Lubart” serving as its initiator. Across several locations in the city, more than 70 events were held: discussions, book presentations, lectures, film screenings, creative meetups, and workshops. “We once again proved that Ukrainians are strong, talented, and resilient,” emphasized Viktoriia Pylypenko, Director of the Department of Information Activity and Public Communications of the Poltava Regional Military Administration.
Among the participants were writers Vasyl Shkliar and Serhiy Zhadan, paramedic and volunteer Yuliia Paievska (Taira), founder of the “Hospitallers” battalion Yana Zinkevych, journalist and service member Vakhtang Kipiani, rapper and soldier Artem Loik, publicist Pavlo Kazarin, musician Vladyslav Usenko, and many others. Dozens of NGOs, charitable foundations, rehabilitation centers, and volunteer groups from Poltava contributed to the event.
During the forum, Aurora’s Head of CSR, Aliona Zhihura, spoke about the transformation of the company’s corporate social responsibility strategy during the full-scale war: shifting from traditional social initiatives to humanitarian and defense support, veteran programs, inclusion, community development, and strengthening employee resilience. Today, the company’s key priorities include defense support, assistance for veterans and military families, inclusive environments, and partnerships with public institutions.
Another important focus of the forum was the support of veteran entrepreneurship. Aurora already collaborates with brands created by veterans and military families and continues expanding their presence within the network. The company offers an online submission form for product testing, open to businesses of any scale.
Aurora is also opening job opportunities for veterans and people with disabilities across its stores, logistics operations, office departments, and IT. The company is building accessible environments, simplifying hiring and onboarding processes, and developing a veteran policy centered on reintegration, flexible conditions, and professional growth. Aurora prioritizes meaningful employment, ensuring every employee has a real role and opportunities to develop.
“Steely Word” became a space of strength and creativity — a meeting point for those who defend and create simultaneously, as well as those who support their work. The event once again highlighted that victory is a shared effort of the state, businesses, communities, and people united by a common purpose.
