On the International Day of Rural Women, the Shchedryk Charitable Foundation would like to tell you about Nadiia Stepanivna, a woman who, as a physics and mathematics teacher, was able not only to teach children but also to develop her own farm.
Nadiia Stepanivna grows persimmons, which she says has become not only a business but also an opportunity for her to maintain her health:
Because of my diabetes, I can’t eat a lot of fruit, but persimmons are an exception. I realised that they are good for me, and now I grow them for myself and others who have the same problems.
After shelling damaged part of her garden, Nadiya did not give up. She restored the trees and even plans to expand her farm. And it is not just a business, but also a way to share her achievements with others. As a teacher, she instilled in her children a love of healthy eating:
When I brought persimmons to school, children always came after school and asked: ‘Is there anything tasty?’ I would treat them to some, and little by little they got used to this fruit.
So now Nadiia continues to study information about different persimmon varieties and actively involves her daughters in her business.
her daughters in her business.
My daughter and I are planning to plant more trees in the garden where last year the war interfered with our plans, but this year we are not stopping and are planting new seedlings and thinking about buying more.
Her story is an example of how a woman can combine working with her children, growing fruit and rebuilding her own household after heavy losses. She proves that even in the most difficult times, you can find the strength to keep moving forward.
The Shchedryk Charitable Foundation is proud of such women who, despite all the difficulties, find inspiration in their work and help revive life in villages. You are our pride!
The project is being implemented with the support of Oxfam, a foreign non-governmental organisation.