In the capital of Ukraine, the National Museum of History of Ukraine has launched a new multimedia exhibition titled «Iron People», dedicated to the bravery of Ukrainian railway workers during wartime. The opening ceremony was attended by high-ranking officials, including Deputy Minister of Community Development Oleksiy Balesta.
The «Iron People» exhibition showcases the extraordinary stories of over 176,000 employees of “Ukrzaliznytsia” who ensure the continuous movement of the country even amidst shelling, evacuate civilians, and restore damaged infrastructure.
The project is authored by Dutch photographer Jelle Krings, who has been documenting the perilous work of railway workers in Ukraine since the beginning of the Russian invasion. His works, which have already received international acclaim, are presented for the first time in a multimedia format.
«This exhibition highlights real people who, despite the danger, continue to provide stable railway connections in Ukraine. Their resilience and professionalism are the foundation of our strength» — stated Oleksiy Balesta during the opening.
The exhibition features photographs, audio accompaniment, and a short documentary film titled «Lifeline», which tells the story of Tatyana Visloguzova — the head of an evacuation train that became a lifeline for thousands of residents in frontline regions.
This exhibition is part of the international project «Iron People: War and Life Along Ukraine’s Railway Lines», aimed at showcasing the humanity and bravery of Ukrainian railway workers who help the country move forward even in the toughest times.
The event was held with the support of the Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands in Ukraine and the participation of the Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary Ambassador Alle Dorhout.