Ukraine’s President His Excellency Volodymyr Zelenskyy: A Global Symbol of Courage and Hope in a Time of Crisis

During the few weeks since Russian troops invaded Ukraine on February 24, Ukraine’s President, His Excellency Volodymyr Zelenskyy, has risen to the occasion as a fearless leader, giving his all to defend, guide, and support his country and fellow citizens. Despite urgent pleas from other government leaders for him and his family to evacuate to a safe location, he insisted on staying in Kyiv, the capital of Ukraine, in his country with his people.

In a short period, His Excellency Volodymyr Zelenskyy has unified not just his nation but the entire western world, winning the hearts and minds of the people with his bravery, steadfast efforts, and loving devotion to his country that shines through his simple, sincere words.

However, a hero is not made overnight. Before becoming a global household name, who was Volodymyr Zelenskyy? How did he become Ukraine’s president at 41 years of age? How did he become the person he is today? Let’s find out.

On January 25, 1978, Volodymyr Oleksandrovych Zelenskyy was born into a Jewish family in the city of Kryvyi Rih in central Ukraine. After obtaining a law degree, Volodymyr decided to pursue his passion for becoming an artist and entertainer. His talent in comedy was apparent when he won the national comedy competition, KVN, or “Club of the Funny and Inventive,” at 19.

Mr. Zelenskyy's presidential campaign was unconventional. Instead of going to campaign rallies or interviewing with the mainstream media, he mainly used social media and his own production company Kvartal 95 to speak to the people directly. In an interview with the German weekly news magazine Der Spiegel, he said, "I want to bring professional, decent people to power and would really like to change the mood and timbre of the political establishment as much as possible."

Immediately after Russia’s assault, Mr. Zelenskyy declared martial law and cut diplomatic ties with Russia. Since then, His Excellency Volodymyr Zelenskyy has frequently posted virtual messages, delivered timely reports on the truth of the war, and encouraged his fellow country people, which has attracted global attention and mobilized international assistance. “We are all here. Our soldiers are here. Our citizens are here, and we are here. We defend our independence.”

During the recent conferences with Supreme Master Television team members on the current state in Ukraine, Supreme Master Ching Hai commented several times on the outstanding leadership of His Excellency Volodymyr Zelenskyy. The following is from a discussion on March 18: “(President Zelenskyy visited wounded soldiers recovering at a military hospital. He also awarded the troops and hospital workers with medals. It shows Zelenskyy has a very good heart and he’s a kind leader.) That’s the way he should do anyway. It’s good. He seems to be a very kind and reasonable guy. And at least he sticks his neck out for his country. He’s not a coward and he’s not running away. He’s the main reason that the soldiers are fighting well and hard. Because he makes a good example. He encourages them. He inspires them.”

Supreme Master Ching Hai: “Respectfully present the Shining World Leadership Award for Bravery to His Excellency Volodymyr Zelenskyy, with high salute and deep admiration for the extraordinary leadership and noble spirit you have demonstrated in defending the freedom and sovereignty of Ukraine. May you and the brave people of Ukraine always be shielded through God’s Protection and Blessings. May the Freedom that you and your people treasure and protect above your lives forever prevail by Heaven 's Decree.”