Kyiv hosted the presentation of the first inclusive comic book for children called ‘The Heart Sees More Than the Eyes’. The event took place as part of the one-day bootcamp ‘Communication without Barriers’, organised to promote the values of inclusion and tolerance among young people. This was reported by the Research Institute for Socio-Economic Development of the City (NDIRoM), whose specialists joined the creation of the comic on a pro bono basis.
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The comic book is aimed at overcoming stigma and making children aware of equal rights and opportunities for all people, regardless of their physical characteristics. The prototype of the comic’s main character is Alexandra Pascal, who continued to practice rhythmic gymnastics after losing her leg in a Russian missile strike in May 2022. At the presentation, she stressed the importance of overcoming stereotypes and creating an inclusive environment.
Sergiy Pavlovsky, Director of the Research Institute of Rhythmic Gymnastics, noted that Oleksandra’s story demonstrates courage and strength of spirit, and became the basis for the comic book. He stressed that such initiatives contribute to positive changes in society, making it more tolerant and inclusive.
The comic book was created as part of the UPSHIFT programme implemented by the NGO ‘SCC Zadzerkallia’ with the support of UNICEF Ukraine and the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development through KfW Development Bank.
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