Recap of IPDGC activities: hosting the 2023 IWOC awardees
By Mohamad Fayaz Yourish
On March 10, 2023, IPDGC had the opportunity to host the recipients of the 2023 International Women of Courage Award at the GW Elliott School of International Affairs. Earlier that week, the U.S. Department of State announced the awards which recognize global women who have demonstrated exceptional courage, strength, and leadership in acting to improve the lives of others.
IPDGC’s Mohamad Fayaz Yourish had an exclusive interview with Yuliia (Taira) Paievska from Ukraine. Paievska was recognized for her
immense bravery as a medic during the war in Ukraine.
As head of Taira’s Angels, a
volunteer paramedic unit, she provided medical aid and training on the Donbas front lines
from 2014 to 2018.
She is known for secretly filming and smuggling out footage from the besieged city of Mariupol, bringing the world’s attention to the plight of civilians caught in the crossfire of war. Despite being detained, she remains a vocal advocate for Ukrainian democracy and independence.
In the interview, Yuliia discussed the risks she undertook as a medic, the role of technology in promoting peace and stability in Ukraine, and the measures to counter disinformation and propaganda in the war there. She emphasized the importance of truth, facts, and evidence, and the need to address the lies spread about Ukraine and its people.
Yuliia’s bravery and commitment to the people of Ukraine are truly inspiring.
Watch the full interview:
This interview is by GW graduate student Mohamad Fayaz Yourish, who is in the MA Global Communication program.