Nastya Popandopulos is the Executive Director of Victory Center, a non-profit organization dedicated to the psycho-emotional recovery of veterans and children impacted by war, employing hippotherapy and animal therapy. With a profound commitment to serving those affected by war, Nastya plays a pivotal role in orchestrating programs aimed at restoring well-being and resilience in communities. In addition to her role at Victory Center, Nastya is a co-founder of PR Army, an initiative that offers global media an accurate portrayal of the ongoing war by amplifying the voices of Ukrainian experts, authorities, and witnesses.  

Her background in journalism and public relations, acquired during her studies at university, laid the foundation for her versatile and impactful career in communications. She honed her skills as a public relations specialist in the technology sector. Driven by a passion for advocating for the voices of the marginalized and those affected by war, Nastya continues to foster healing, understanding, and positive change in her community and beyond. 

IVLP Impact Award Project: From Trauma to Triumph: Harnessing the Power of Horses & Healing for War-Affected Children

This project promoted emotional healing, resilience, and psychological well-being to 24 children aged 6-12 in Ukraine affected by the war through horse-assisted therapy and nature-based interventions. The project’s main activities included horse-assisted therapy sessions, equine care workshops, nature walks and outdoor games, creative arts and crafts, and group discussions and reflective exercises. These activities significantly improved emotional regulation, self-awareness, literacy skills, empathy, and social integration among the children.

The final event took place in September 2024, allowing children to showcase their achievements and demonstrate the program's impact. They held a horse grooming competition, and each participant received a certificate of completion. The project provided a supportive and nurturing environment where children could express themselves freely, built positive relationships with peers and facilitators, and restored empathy and trust in others. Project surveys showed an 80% increase in participants’ reading and writing abilities, a 40% increase in positive social interactions and friendships formed during the program, and a 50% increase in practical equine care skills.

Explore Nastya's insights on her IVLP Impact Award project and IVLP experience in this in-depth article, highlighting the power of global collaboration and cultural exchange: IVLP Impact Awards Perspectives – Healing Hooves: Restoring Community through Innovative Solutions | Meridian International Center

"Being part of this project has opened my eyes to the power of community support. The children are inspiring, and their growth motivates me every day." – Project volunteer

IVLP Exchange Experience   

Nastya participated in the IVLP Project: Social Entrepreneurs in the United States organized by the U.S. Department of State and Cultural Vistas, in partnership with Colorado Springs World Affairs Council, WorldOrlando, World Affairs Council of New Hampshire, and Global Minnesota. 

Nastya’s exchange experience led to the development of her project: “IVLP has equipped me with a wealth of knowledge and skills that directly contributed to the creation and implementation of Victory Center. Through engaging workshops, insightful discussions, and interactions with both fellow participants and leaders, IVLP instilled in me the confidence and mindset required to undertake ambitious initiatives such as Victory Center.” 

U.S. Communities Visited   

Colorado Springs, CO; Washington DC; Orlando, FL; Manchester, NH; Minneapolis, MN 

“My IVLP experience served as the catalyst for my IVLP Impact Award project, igniting a passion to bring equine-assisted therapy to my home country of Ukraine.” – Nastya Popandopulos

Country: Ukraine 

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