Marichka Padalko became an ambassador of the "Running for the Language" race from the All-Ukrainian Movement "Yedyni" (United).

On Independence Day, the All-Ukrainian Movement "Yedyni" is organizing a race to express support for Ukrainians who cannot speak their native language because of the threat to their lives and safety, as well as those who are afraid of judgment, mistakes, and think it is too late to learn Ukrainian. 

This year's ambassador of the race is 1+1 Marathon and TSN anchor Marichka Padalko, who will cover the 10 km distance and host the opening ceremony. 

"I am running, first of all, to draw parents' attention to the language. Love, safety, and language are the three most important things we can give our children, for which they will be grateful," commented Marichka Padalko.

In addition to Marichka, Ukrainian gymnast and Olympic gymnastics champion Oleh Verniaiev will support the Run for the Language race as an ambassador.

"My hometown, Donetsk, is currently under occupation. I became an ambassador of the race from the Yedyni Movement because I want to support every Ukrainian who cannot speak their native language because of the danger to their lives and those who are still afraid of being judged for making mistakes. Let's not be afraid to make mistakes and support each other. The language is timely because it unites us, no matter where we are," said Oleh Verniaiev.

You can join the Run for the Language race on August 18 in Kyiv at Expocenter of Ukraine (VDNG) or from August 18 to 24 anywhere in the world. For more information and registration, please follow this link.

Traditionally, 1+1 Media is the general media partner of the event as part of the Add Ukrainian project. This year, Kyivstar TV, a film and television platform, provides information support. 

As a reminder, in September 2023, 1+1 Media and the Yedyni All-Ukrainian Movement signed a memorandum of cooperation as part of the large-scale communication campaign Add Ukrainian. Since then, we have been consolidating efforts to popularize the Ukrainian language and culture.