Welcome to Anastasiia's story.

Mariupol is no stranger to the occasional shelling since 2014. Yet the invasion still caught everyone by surprise, they believed it was only rumours, or at most, that if there were military action, it wouldn't escalate as quickly as it did.

Anastasiia shares her family's experience of what happened that morning, and until they could leave Ukraine - their only way was through Russia, there was no other way out. They were interrogated, Anastassia's husband for hours, until they were able to leave for Georgia.

They have lost everything, their business, their home, as Anastasiia says "It all became ashes in a moment." She doesn't want any possible connection to her loved ones, family and friends who are still in Mariupol, and put their safety at risk while it is occupied by Russia. We haven't used her full name, or shared her photo on the episode cover to protect her and her family.

Her warmth and optimism lifts everyone up around her. Her smile lights up the room. Her gratitude for safety is immeasurable. Her fear for her family and loved ones is so clearly visible.

"There will always be sunrise after the very dark times, after the dark night..." Anastasiia, Mariupol, Ukraine.

This is her story. Please listen with your hearts and open minds…