Our foundation is named after Leonid (Uncle Lenya), the beloved uncle of our founder, Anna Move. He was a native of Mariupol, a city in southeastern Ukraine on the coast of the Azov Sea. Once a thriving and beautiful place, Mariupol became a symbol of unimaginable devastation during Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.
For over a month, the city was relentlessly bombed every 10 minutes by Russian warplanes. Tens of thousands of civilians perished, trapped under the ruins of their homes, in makeshift shelters, or targeted as they tried to escape. Today, Mariupol remains occupied by Russia, its streets bearing the scars of war, its people scattered across the world or living under oppression.
But Leonid was more than just a victim of war—he was a light in the lives of so many. He was a man with an unbreakable spirit, always radiating warmth, kindness, and a sharp sense of humor. No matter the challenge, he faced life with resilience and optimism. He was the person who would drop everything to help a friend, a stranger, or anyone in need. A devoted husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend, he loved his home, his city, and the people in it.
Leonid fought for Mariupol long before 2022. In 2014, when Russian-backed forces first attempted to seize the city, he stood alongside his fellow citizens to defend it. They succeeded then. But in 2022, as Russian bombs rained down, he once again stood with his people—enduring the horror, the air raids, the destruction. And he paid the ultimate price.
Leonid Foundation carries his name because we carry his spirit. We honor his memory by helping those who, like him, have lost everything and need to rebuild their lives. We stand for resilience, kindness, and unwavering support—just as Leonid did. His name lives on. His fight continues.