One night in September 2020, Hanna Kanavalava escaped Belarus with her two young grandchildren, Ivan and Anastasiya, leaving behind a country stifled by President Lukashenko’s regime. Ivan and Anastasiya’s parents were jailed for opposing the government, leaving them in their grandmother’s care.
Living in exile in Poland, the children long for their parents. Writing letters and limited video calls provide limited connection while the fear of custody by Belarusian authorities looms.
Psychological experts warn of the lasting impact on children separated from their incarcerated parents. Hanna also cares for Marcel and Timur, children of another political opponent who tragically passed away.
In their young lives overshadowed by trauma, Ivan, Anastasiya, Marcel, and Timur find solace in unity and strength. As Hanna navigates the challenges of supporting these children, she remains steadfast in her mission to uphold family bonds.
Through their resilience and unwavering courage, these children in exile from Belarus embody the power of hope amidst adversity.
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