How Ukraine's Cultural Forces use the arts in combat zones | Mykolai Sierga | TEDxMidAtlantic

NOTE FROM TED: This talk only represents the speaker’s personal views and experiences. TEDx events are independently organized by volunteers. The guidelines we give TEDx organizers are described in more detail here: http://storage.ted.com/tedx/manuals/t...

Russia's illegal invasion of Ukraine has sparked a resurgence in Ukrainian cultural identity — especially within the Ukrainian military. Mykolai Sierga, a musician and poet, leads the Ukrainian Cultural Forces, which amplifies the many artists and performers defending Ukraine, not only helping to build morale, but also providing an opportunity to tell stories to the broader world about why Ukraine matters. Sierga offers a story of hope and resilience that resonates in every modern democracy fighting back against autocracy and authoritarianism. Mykolai Sierga is the founder of "Cultural Forces" and "Cultural Forces of Ukraine," an officer in the 59th Separate Motorized Brigade of the Ukrainian Ground Forces, a public figure, musician, TV presenter, actor, and poet.

On February 26, 2022, Mykolai enlisted in the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the Odessa region, where he established the Cultural Forces initiative. This endeavor united artists, musicians, poets, composers, and other individuals with a strong civic stance, all focused on uplifting the morale and mental well-being of Ukrainian soldiers. The Cultural Forces team tours across front lines, battlefields, occupied areas, and centers for military personnel rehabilitation. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx