Introduction of Board Members

RESPECT CHILDREN RIGHTS
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We are an organization that defends the rights of children and young people through our work in physical education and sport.
Board Members Page

Introduction of Board Members

Chairperson: Timo Virtanen, Finland

Vice-Chairperson: Volodymyr Kilarskyi, Ukraine

Secretary: Iryna Shapovalova, Ukraine

Board Member: Viktoriia Kiliarska, Ukraine

Board Member: Henry Björklid, Finland

Official advisor professor Caterina Pesce, Italy

Coordinator Ukriane area Anatolii Bugaiev, Ukraine

Timo Virtanen

Timo Virtanen

Timo Virtanen founded and launched the children’s and youth physical education project EVERYBODY IS IMPORTANT on August 21, 1995. The project is being implemented in Ukraine until August 21, 2036. Timo is known for feeling at home in crisis and war zones, where he works relentlessly to support the well-being of children and young people through physical education and sport.

Driven by a deep love for developing physical education for all children—especially in crisis and conflict areas—Timo has dedicated decades of his life to this mission. His work has taken him into some of the most challenging and dangerous environments in the world, including Bosnia and Herzegovina (1998–1999), Afghanistan (2005–2020), and now Ukraine (from April 18, 2025, until August 21, 2036).
Timo does not retreat in the face of danger or uncertainty. He stands firm, moves forward, and delivers on every promise he makes—no matter the circumstances. His courage, resilience, and unwavering sense of responsibility have earned deep respect from those who work alongside him.

As quoted by the organization’s official advisor,
Professor Caterina Pesce, when describing Timo: “He is just a crazy man from Finland.”
A statement that perfectly captures his fearless spirit, boundless commitment, and extraordinary dedication to children living in the most difficult conditions imaginable.

Timo’s guiding principle is simple and unbreakable:
WE NEVER GIVE UP.

Volodymyr Kilarskyi

Place of Work / Position
Mykolaiv Professional College of Physical Culture
Physical Education Teacher

President of the Mykolaiv Region Athletics Federation

21 years, I have been working as a physical education teacher in the athletics department of MVUFK (now MFKFK).

Senior coach of the athletics department, Teacher of the Highest Category.
2011–2016 — worked as a coach-instructor (part-time) at the Specialized Children and Youth Sports School of Olympic Reserve in Athletics (MSDUSSHOR).
2016–2021 — worked as a coach-instructor (part-time) at the Olympic Training Center for Priority Sports.
Coach of the Highest Category.
Since 2020 — President of the Public Organization "Mykolaiv Region Athletics Federation."

Sporting Achievements in Athletics
Candidate for Master of Sports.
Multiple winner and prizewinner of the Championships of Ukraine in various age categories.

Iryna Shapovalova

Iryna Shapovalova, is a professional coach working with children, youth, and adults.
She has a strong background in elite-level athletics, which is clearly reflected in her coaching philosophy and results. Iryna is an extremely energetic, reliable, and dedicated professional, as well as a devoted mother, who consistently achieves top-level results with her athletes.

She is known for her perseverance, courage, and unwavering determination—qualities shaped by her own career in high-performance sport. Above all, Iryna is deeply committed to her athletes, always placing their development, well-being, and long-term success at the center of her work. Her conscientious and responsible approach to coaching earns her great respect and trust from both athletes and families.

We are truly grateful to have Iryna as a member of our board and as the Secretary of the Board. She still holds the Mykolaiv regional record in the women’s 100-meter hurdles, and it is very likely that this record will remain hers for many years to come.
Thank you, Iryna, for being with us.

Viktoriia Kiliarska

Viktoriia Kiliarska is a former sprinter and a highly dynamic, passionate coach who never gave up during her athletic career—always pushing forward and leaving her competitors behind before crossing the finish line. That same determination, fighting spirit, and winning mindset are at the core of her coaching philosophy today.

Viktoriia is an outstanding coach for children, youth, and adults, known for her ability to inspire, motivate, and guide athletes toward excellence. She approaches each athlete with professionalism, warmth, and genuine care, helping them grow not only as athletes but also as confident individuals.
She is a happy and devoted mother who works closely with her husband, Volodymyr, both on the athletics field and in everyday family life, together raising their young son. Their shared values of commitment, cooperation, and mutual support are clearly reflected in their work and their lives.

We are deeply grateful to have Viktoriia as part of our board and truly appreciate the opportunity to work together with her. Thank you, Viktoriia, for your trust, dedication, and for walking this journey with us.

Henry Björklid

Iryna Shapovalova & Henry Björklid.

And finally, we would like to introduce our Henry. Henry has an exceptional and truly special connection with the real Santa Claus, who lives at the Arctic Circle. Whenever there is a need for Santa Claus, Henry makes sure he arrives—bringing joy, excitement, and unforgettable moments to children.
Thanks to Henry, magic becomes real and smiles light up children’s faces. His dedication to creating happiness and unforgettable experiences for families perfectly reflects the heart and spirit of what we do together.
Thank you, Henry, for spreading joy, warmth, and Christmas magic with us.

European Children & Youth Physical Education Academy - E.C.Y.P.E. - Academy ry
Official advisor Professor Caterina Pesce.

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