Different but Equal: “Manifesto of Equality in Diversity” Installation presented in Odesa

This pop-up space is dedicated to equal opportunities and every individual’s right to be seen, heard, and included in various societal processes. On November 6, the "Manifesto of Equality for the Diverse" project was unveiled at the Riviera Shopping Mall, drawing public attention to the themes of inclusivity and equal opportunities. The project was developed as part of the "Live Towards" initiative — a platform for the integration of veterans — launched by FUIB Bank with the support of the Superhumans Center.

"Manifesto of Equality Among the Diverse" is an installation featuring mannequins — the first of its kind in Ukraine to include figures with prosthetics. They were created by specialists from the Superhumans Center, who work daily with military personnel and civilians suffering from war-related injuries.

The installation showcases merchandise from FUIB’s charitable project "We Are of the Same Blood", including the "Generation 91" collection and a collaboration with the band Boombox. Also featured are items from the Superhumans Shop, as well as products from event partners Skripka and INTERTOP. Coffee and treats for the guests were provided by the ShakeUp café.

The project launch included a panel discussion on the challenges veterans face when returning to civilian life, the role of society in their reintegration, and concrete steps toward creating an accessible, barrier-free environment.

Participants in the discussion included:

• Tetiana Kolesnyk — Head of Social Projects at FUIB;
• Liubov Antonenko-Khrystiian — Partnerships Manager at Superhumans Center;
• Oleksii Prytula — Veteran of the Russo-Ukrainian War, Deputy Director for Ethics, Culture, and Standards at the Superhumans Center’s War Trauma Center;
• Stepan Vlasiuk — Veteran of the Russo-Ukrainian War, patient at the Superhumans Center.
• The discussion was moderated by Viktoriia Harkusha, Head of the "Live Towards" platform.

The discussion addressed not only the physical accessibility of spaces but also barriers related to communication, perception, and attitudes toward people with disabilities.

Oleksii Prytula who underwent prosthetic fitting and rehabilitation at Superhumans following a severe injury that resulted in the loss of both legs — now works at the center, helping others. His experience served as a key element of the conversation regarding the return to an active life, professional fulfillment, and the creation of an environment where everyone can contribute and be heard.

Stepan Vlasyuk, who underwent secondary prosthetic fitting at Superhumans after sustaining an injury that led to the loss of a leg, also shared his experience. His story underscores the vital importance of not only ensuring a person’s physical recovery but also supporting their desire to remain an active member of society.

Representatives from FUIB and the Superhumans Center addressed the issues of systemic support for veterans, the development of adaptive sports, the cultivation of an inclusive culture, and the fostering of partnerships between the business and civil sectors.

"This installation is about unity — we are different, yet we must learn to listen to one another, understand each other, and collaborate. Integrating into this new reality is essential not only for veterans but also for civilians, as we work together toward the country’s development," - noted Tetiana Kolesnyk, Head of Social Projects at FUIB.

Following the event, participants visited the Superhumans Center in Odesa to gain a closer look at the prosthetics and rehabilitation process, and to hear the stories of patients and the teams who help them return to an active life every day.

The installation will remain at the Riviera Shopping Mall until the end of November 2026. The organizers invite Odesa residents and visitors to view the exhibition, learn about the project, and reflect on what each of us can do to help build a more open and inclusive society.

Address: Riviera Shopping Mall, 101a Pivdenna Road, Fontanka village, Odesa region.

The "Manifesto of Equality Among the Diverse" focuses on individuals who, despite having different experiences, are equally deserving of respect, support, and the opportunity to live a full life and overcome challenges together.

We are different. Yet we are equal. Now is the time to reach out toward one another.

"Live Towards" is a large-scale platform for the integration of veterans, initiated by FUIB in partnership with Veteran HUB, Superhumans Center, Invictus Games Ukraine, YANKO, and U+System. Its goal is to help those returning from the war successfully integrate into financial systems, the labor market, entrepreneurship, and society as a whole. Initiatives within the "Live Towards" platform create opportunities for veterans while encouraging businesses, communities, and all Ukrainians to take steps toward one another. You can learn more about the platform, its completed and planned activities, and how to get involved by following this link:https://t.me/zhytynazustrich