Borova – A Town on the Edge
2023-2024

The town of Borova, in Ukraine’s Kharkiv region, has endured relentless shelling and occupation by Russian forces since 2022. Nevertheless, during our visit, Borova emerged as a powerful symbol of resilience amid the brutal realities of war.

The journey to Borova itself reflects the daily hardships faced by its residents. Driving from Izyum, one must cross the Oskil River via a bridge only partially rebuilt after its destruction in 2022, and navigate roads disrupted by military barricades. The town stands as a stark testimony to both devastation and determination. Borova – A Town on the Edge aims to capture the lives of those who have chosen to stay and rebuild, despite the ever-present threat of violence.


Sergiy, a soldier recently returned from the front, sits quietly at the station. Visibly exhausted and shaken by the loss of three comrades, he scrolls through photos of the trenches and fellow soldiers, sharing them with a companion. In a moment of vulnerability, he reflects on his grief, only to steady himself with the old saying, “A Cossack doesn’t cry over misfortune.” His words lay bare the emotional toll of war and the inner strength required to carry on.


Borova’s story echoes the broader sociopolitical and economic consequences of the war. Both civilians and soldiers shoulder the weight of a conflict that continues to shape the nation. As the world watches, Borova’s survival becomes emblematic of Ukraine’s broader struggle—for sovereignty, dignity, and stability—with profound implications for international security, human rights, and geopolitical balance.


This project is a tribute to the enduring spirit of a community caught in the chaos of war. It speaks to the human capacity to resist, to rebuild, and to hope. By documenting these deeply personal moments, this project seeks to amplify the voices of those living on the frontlines—voices that are too often unheard—and to inspire global solidarity in the face of ongoing conflict.


