Ivan Zhilyuk: language choice in the context of family values

Ivan Zhilyuk, a talented Ukrainian actor, known for numerous roles in national TV series, raised an interesting topic that touches the heart of every Ukrainian — the issue of language.

Language choice between family ties and identity

Ivan sincerely shared his inner conflict: on the one hand, he understands the importance of language in our lives, and on the other hand, he cannot erase 20 years of communication with his grandmother. "It hurts me, " the actor admits. His grandmother lives in the occupied territory in Khartsyzk, and now they can only communicate by phone.

"To be honest, this is a difficult issue for me, one of my internal conflicts, " Ivan said.

History that shapes identity

Ivan tells how in his childhood, despite living in a Russian-speaking region, he always wanted to speak Ukrainian. Even in a city where only one of six schools was Ukrainian, he found Ukrainian-speaking people to communicate with. "When I was five years old, I constantly told my grandmother: 'Let's talk in Ukrainian, '" Zhylyuk shares.

Changes that inspire

According to Zhilyuk, the transition to the Ukrainian language was not instantaneous, but it turned out to be easier than expected. Such a choice, despite the difficulty, helped him strengthen his identity and feel part of the great Ukrainian community.

"I didn't completely switch to Ukrainian right away, but it turned out to be not so difficult, " the actor added.

This story of Zhilyuk, filled with emotions and family values, shows how important it is to preserve one's cultural heritage without losing touch with loved ones. It reminds us that language is not only a means of communication, but also a powerful tool for strengthening identity and unity.

Editor: Emiliia Morozova