Results of I Will Vladimir's Cup Programming Competition

Dear Friends and Supporters,

On October 23 in Ukraine, we held our online I Will Cup - Vladimir’s Youth Competition, continuing a tradition my father began years ago with his “Festivals of Knowledge.” Back then, my father personally awarded and encouraged young talents. I am grateful to share how we are building on his vision with your support.

I Will Cup - Vladimir’s Youth Competition 2024
This year, 106 children (ages 7-14) from 25 towns and villages across Ukraine participated in our programming competition, overcoming challenges like limited internet and power. The children submitted animated projects in categories like “Animation for a Favorite Book,” “Game Design,” and “Interactive Story.” Our panel of I Will educators reviewed and selected the top projects, providing each participant with personalized feedback to encourage growth.

The top winners proudly received the I Will Vladimir’s Cup, while others earned recognition with Lego sets or certificates to computer stores, mailed directly to their homes. These awards brought joy and pride, especially for children from underprivileged backgrounds who does not have stable family support. Attached are pictures from this year’s event and from the early festivals.

Children’s Projects & Feedback
Attached, is the compilation of just some of the children’s projects, showcasing the talent you have helped nurture. 

Feedback from schools and families has been overwhelmingly positive, especially in rural areas. One parent called the event “magical,” saying it brought joy and hope, while another shared, “This competition showed our kids they are seen and valued.” Many children are already eagerly preparing for next year, fueled by the recognition and encouragement they received.

Your Donations in Action Beyond the Competition
Thanks to your support, I Will continues to provide educational resources year-round across computer classes in Ukraine. Here’s how your contributions are making a difference:

• Expanding Capacity: Funding for internet, equipment, and upgrades.

• Providing Robotics Kits and Materials: Bringing hands-on learning to life.

• Sponsoring Education for Underprivileged Kids: Ensuring equal access to learning for all.

• Supporting Teachers: Resources for educators to guide students in programming and robotics.

• Future Expansion: We aim to introduce new technology, establish scholarships, and grow programming competitions across Ukraine.

Looking Forward
With your continued support, we are thrilled to expand these programs with scholarships for promising students, opening doors to further education and future careers in technology.

Thank you for being such a vital part of this journey.

With deepest gratitude,
I Will team

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October 23, 2024 - I Will Vladimir's Cup of Knowledge Programming Contest

Today, on October 23, 2024, my father's birthday, we celebrate another significant milestone of I Will initiatives. 

Last year, we inaugurated I Will Candlelight of Knowledge to honor Vladimir's vision. This year, I am thrilled to announce that the programming competition my father started decades ago, aimed at fostering programming skills among children and youth, has achieved unprecedented success!  We received registrations from 106 young programmers not only from Mykolaiv region but across towns and villages all over Ukraine! This surpassed our expectations.

Despite ongoing sirens and internet issues, enthusiastic participants, aged 7 to 14, are demonstrating their emerging programming skills.

Next week, we look forward to announcing the winners and sharing a map that highlights the diverse origins of these submissions. We will also showcase photos of the winners with the "I Will Vladimir's Cup of Knowledge."

Your support is crucial as we continue to nurture I Will legacy and inspire future generations. 

October 23, 2023 - I Will CandleLight Tradition is Born

On October 23, 2023, we celebrate my father Vladimir on his Birthday.

While it's our first Birthday without him, his legacy shines brightly.

The I Will organisation was conceived in October 2002 at the kitchen table in Mykolaiv, Ukraine, with my mom and dad. For Dad, I Will wasn't just a passion; it was a relentless volunteering commitment, on top of his full-time job. And Mom always stood by our side, shared her enthusiasm, encouragement and pride.

My dad lived a life guided by kindness, patience, optimism, and the power of dreaming. But what set him apart was not just his dreams but his unwavering dedication to turning those dreams into actions and his optimism. Optimism/Hope Story: In the winter of 2022, we found ourselves waiting for hours at the border, on a long, cold and rainy night, in the despate crowd. We left everything behind and the future was uncertain. Dad was fighting illness. And I will never forget this moment:  Worrying for my dad, I looked at him, and he looked at me, and he winked at me with a twinkle in his eye, and softly said: 'This is romantic.'  It is a remarkable ability to find hope and dream even in the most challenging times.

My dads favourite words are - “Не останавливайся на достигнутом и не зазнавайся”!   Knowing my dad's philosophy of life, this can be translated as “Embrace the present, unleash the future and stay humble”.

As part of the celebration, together we lit the I Will Candle.

We are excited to announce the 'I Will Candlelight Fund.' 

This fund will ensure that the light of Knowledge, Hope, and Will continue to shine bright in the years to come. Donations to the I Will Candlelight Fund will support our ongoing educational initiatives. 

Thank you from the bottom of my heart

Tatiana