The award ceremony for the 'Person of the Year 2024' took place in Kyiv, celebrating remarkable achievements of citizens in both professional and social realms. The event was hosted by Kateryna Osadcha and Yuriy Horbunov.

The nomination for 'Mayor' acknowledges city leaders who have significantly contributed to the development of their municipalities, enhancing infrastructure and improving residents' quality of life.

The award was presented to Hennadiy Trukhanov by Mykhailo Pozhivanov, a member of parliament for four terms and former mayor of Mariupol, who noted that it was a great honor to congratulate the best mayor in Ukraine.

«Today, Odesa is a city that supports the military, accommodating nearly 100,000 internally displaced persons, and facing every challenge with dignity,» emphasized Pozhivanov.

Hennadiy Trukhanov expressed his gratitude for the award, which he sees as a symbol of trust:  

«I am thankful to every Odesan and every Ukrainian who works for the benefit of their community. This recognition belongs to our unbreakable Odesa. Odesa-Mother, which cares for everyone: the displaced, the military, and those in need of warmth and support. Our team works daily: we assist the Armed Forces, create rehabilitation centers, prepare the city for the health season, and launch new initiatives such as the Barrier-Free Council established in collaboration with veterans,» said Hennadiy Trukhanov.

During his speech, the mayor of Odesa thanked the military and invited them to Odesa for rehabilitation. He also shared his most painful thoughts:

«It is hard to bury comrades. But I will say clearly: the most horrifying thing is to bury children we pull from the rubble. This is unforgivable. Every murderer will face justice - both earthly and heavenly,» stated Trukhanov, emphasizing that victory will inevitably belong to Ukraine.

«Odesa is strong. Odesa is alive. And we will hold on - for those who are with us, and for those we have lost,» concluded Hennadiy Trukhanov.