#checkinginwithdelegates – Iryna Tepalenko

💎 Another voice from the Checking in with Delegates project comes from Iryna Tepalenko, delegate from the Ukrainian UATA, whose term has just ended. We sincerely thank Iryna for her invaluable contributions to the Communications Committee and wish her all the best in her new role within UATA.

💎What are her reflections on her time as an EATA delegate?

“The role of a delegate has become a special place for me.
Above all, for the opportunity to stay in contact with others. To hear voices of support. This was incredibly important for my country at the beginning of the full-scale war. It felt like a small flame that brings both warmth and light.

I’m grateful for the humanity that could be felt through official words.

For the simple gestures that carried great power: letters, glances, short phrases of care.

For the fact that in difficult times, we remained not just colleagues, but people — with open hearts.

For the way this role became not just a responsibility, but a point of grounding and support.”