Organizing Ukraine Relief Foundation (O.U.R. Foundation)

For years, I joked our motto was “In spite of it all,” as our achievements at The Ukrainians Media seemed to happen despite the circumstances. We proved high-quality Ukrainian-language journalism could thrive without investments or oligarchs. We launched important projects despite skepticism. Today, in 2024, as we celebrate our 10th anniversary, I realize we succeeded not just “despite obstacles” but “thanks to” the following reasons: 1. We persevered thanks to a grand Idea / In turbulent times, staying ambitious and planning is tough. Yet, from day one, TUM aimed to build a world-class media company in Ukraine and deliver quality journalism to our readers. 2. We persevered thanks to our values / Our commitment to quality and integrity, enabled us to build a strong foundation to thrive in a dynamic media environment. Because values matter. 3. We persevered thanks to youthful idealism / Being uncompromising didn’t always make things easier, but it shaped who we are today. Achieving goals is easier when you question the impossible. Even when your initial investment is $122. 4. We persevered thanks to passion and curiosity / TUM is about influencing and helping. Journalism is our job, hobby, and life. We believe in the media's transformative power. 5. We persevered thanks to our talents / We aim to attract talented Ukrainian youth to build great media. Our success comes from bright minds and skilled professionals who work with a clear mission and a thirst for change. 6. We persevered thanks to wise partners / Over the past decade, we’ve met many people and organizations that want to do more for our country. They supported us and stood by us. Thank you. 7. We persevered thanks to a desire to give, not just take / Education is key for us. We teach writing, podcasting, and photography. Investing in talent to strengthen Ukrainian journalism and benefit us all. 8. We persevered thanks to the Armed Forces / Our story started after Crimea's annexation. We've covered the war since, now with thoughts of our colleagues in Ukraine's Armed Forces. Our meaningful work depends on our defenders. 9. We persevered thanks to changes / In the past decade, our country has evolved. We've become more active, trusting, and Ukrainian-speaking. Over ten years, TUM grew from a volunteer blog by three dreamers to an independent media company led by 35 talented individuals. 10. We persevered thanks to our Community / Four years ago, we launched our membership program, a pivotal management decision. Over 3,000 members have since joined, supporting and inspiring us. We aim to reach 5,000 ambassadors soon. We're expanding our Global Community to share quality, long-form Ukrainian journalism with international audiences. You can join us — https://tum.li/YrgU — and help spread our story by reposting. TUM owes its existence to you—our readers, collaborators, and Community. Thanks to your support, we've persevered and will achieve even more in the decade to come.