Renowned athletes have joined forces to support a new socio-educational project called ‘Sports Reads’. The project was unveiled at the Gulliver Shopping Mall during the ‘Books and Art Fest’, as reported by Yulia Khan, the director of the Department of Youth and Sports of the Kyiv City State Administration.

Olympic champions and medalists, alongside other sports stars representing Ukraine globally, participated in this initiative. Notable figures include Marina Alexieva, Oleg Vernyayev, and Irina Kolyadenko, among others.

The project’s photographs were taken by military serviceman Oleg Palchik, while makeup was handled by Alina Vizirska.

“Reading is crucial brain training that aids in decision-making and overcoming challenges. Great athletes are shaped not only by physical preparation but also by knowledge gained through books,” emphasized Yulia Khan.

The primary goal of this initiative is to encourage youth to adopt an active lifestyle and develop through reading.

During the panel discussion ‘Sports and Reading: Breaking Stereotypes’, athletes shared how much time they devote to reading and recommended their favorite motivational books.

“Reading is power, especially when a champion speaks of it. We aim to engage youth in a blend of sports and reading, as true victories begin not only on the training ground but also in inspiring books,” noted Olympic champion Oleg Vernyayev.

Throughout March, literary readings by athletes took place in libraries and schools across Kyiv, reaching over a thousand students. The initiative will continue in April, and the ‘Sports Reads’ photo project will be showcased in new venues around Kyiv.

The project is organized by the Support Center for Athletes with the backing of the Ministry of Youth and Sports of Ukraine.