The award ceremony for the «Person of the Year 2024» was held in Kyiv, honoring significant achievements of citizens in both professional and social realms. The event was hosted by Kateryna Osadcha and Yuriy Horbunov.
The «Mayor of the Year» category acknowledged city leaders who have made substantial contributions to urban development, infrastructure improvement, and enhancing the quality of life for residents.
The award was presented to Hennadiy Trukhanov by Mykola Pozhivanov, a member of parliament for four terms and the former mayor of Mariupol, who emphasized that it is a great honor to recognize the best mayor in Ukraine.
«Today, Odesa is a city that supports its military and hosts approximately 100,000 internally displaced persons. It bravely faces all challenges», noted Pozhivanov.
Hennadiy Trukhanov expressed gratitude for the award, which he views as a symbol of trust:
«I am grateful to every Odesan and every Ukrainian who works for the benefit of their community. This award represents our indomitable Odesa. Odesa-Mother, which cares for all: for the displaced, for the military, for those in need of warmth and support. Our team works daily: we assist the Armed Forces of Ukraine, establish rehabilitation centers, prepare the city for the health season, and launch new initiatives like the Barrier-Free Council created in collaboration with veterans», Trukhanov remarked.
During his speech, the mayor of Odesa thanked the military and invited them to Odesa for recovery. He also shared his most painful experiences:
«It’s hard to bury comrades. But the worst is burying children we pull from the rubble. This cannot be forgiven. Every murderer will face justice - both earthly and heavenly», said Trukhanov, emphasizing that victory will surely belong to Ukraine.
«Odesa is strong. Odesa is alive. We will hold on - for those who are with us and for those we have lost», concluded Hennadiy Trukhanov.
