Recognition of Ukrainian Policewomen on an International Stage

Three representatives from Ukraine's law enforcement agencies have received recognition in an international contest organized by the International Association of Women Police. They were awarded in three key categories: "Officer of the Year", "Service to the Community", and "Courage".

This information was reported by the Ministry of Internal Affairs.

Captain Olena Stavytska, who works in an evacuation unit in Sumy region, received the "Officer of the Year" award. Along with her team, she is involved in evacuating civilians from dangerous areas, providing aid to the wounded, and actively participating in rescue operations after enemy attacks.

In October 2024, her vehicle was hit by a Russian strike, resulting in an injury for Olena. However, after a brief recovery, she quickly returned to duty, continuing to save lives.

"It was tough at first, but I enjoy helping people. Their hugs and words of gratitude fill me with genuine emotions [...]

I love what I do. My 17-year-old daughter is waiting for me at home. Of course, she worries about me, but she is proud and wants to become a police officer like her mom in the future," Olena shared.

Lieutenant Colonel Olga Zinchenko received the award for "Service to the Community", leading the juvenile prevention department in Zaporizhia.

Since the onset of the full-scale invasion, under her coordination, over a thousand Ukrainian children have been evacuated to safer locations. Thanks to her efforts, 255 children have been located and returned to their families since the beginning of 2024.

Moreover, she conducts classes for schoolchildren within the "Mobile Safety Class" program and actively participates in the youth club "Baida", which helps to foster legal awareness among the youth.

Lieutenant Valeriya Bilenets was awarded in the "Courage" category. Since December 2022, she has been involved in complex evacuation operations in Donetsk as part of the "White Angels" squad.

Thanks to Valeriya’s service, 518 Ukrainians, including 84 children, have been evacuated from under fire, and another 250 families received humanitarian aid.

Additionally, she has repeatedly participated in rescue operations in shelling areas, saving the wounded from the rubble.

The International Association of Women Police unites over 30 law enforcement organizations from 75 countries around the world. The association advocates for women's interests in law enforcement on an international level.

Each year, the organization holds a competition that honors police officers across 11 different categories.