8 Oct 2025

Mykolaiv, Ukraine: Resilience, Culture, and Courage

Mykolaiv (Ukraine) is a city in southern Ukraine that serves as an important shipbuilding, transportation, and cultural center. Located in the Mykolaiv region (oblast), it has a rich history and stands today as a symbol of endurance and hope. Once known mainly for its naval yards and engineering schools, the city has grown into a dynamic community that values education, art, and tradition as much as its industrial strength.

Where Is Mykolaiv Located?

The city lies at the confluence of the Southern Bug (Pivdennyi Buh) and Inhul rivers, about 65 km from the Black Sea.

It serves as the administrative center of the Mykolaiv Oblast, which covers approximately 24,585 km² and had a population of about 1.09 million as of 2021.

The region borders Odesa, Kherson, and Kirovohrad oblasts, with part of its territory opening to the Black Sea coast.

Population of Mykolaiv, Ukraine

The city’s population has changed over time due to industrial shifts and recent conflicts.

As of 2022, the city had around 470,000 residents, while estimates for 2025 suggest 476,000 people. The wider district, which includes the city and nearby settlements, is home to around 637,000 people.

Despite wartime challenges, Mykolaiv remains a lively urban hub with a strong sense of community and cultural identity.

Mykolaiv Flag

The flag of Mykolaiv Oblast is a proud regional symbol. It features traditional Ukrainian colors—blue and yellow—representing peace, sky, and wheat fields. The city of Mykolaiv also has its own flag and coat of arms, symbolizing its maritime and industrial heritage.

Top Sights in the City

While Mykolaiv is widely known for its shipbuilding and naval industry, it also offers several cultural and natural attractions worth visiting.

🐘 Mykolaiv Zoo – One of the oldest and most famous zoos in Eastern Europe, home to over 5,600 animals of 450 species. Despite war damage, the zoo continues to operate and care for animals.
⚓ Museum of Shipbuilding and Fleet – A must-see for anyone interested in maritime history. The museum showcases models of historic ships and Ukraine’s shipbuilding legacy.
🏛️ Regional Museum of Local History – Offers exhibits about the region’s nature, people, and history.
🌳 Victory Park (Park Peremohy) – A scenic urban park on the banks of the Inhul River, perfect for walks and family leisure.
⛪ Cathedrals and Architecture – The city’s old streets and churches preserve a unique atmosphere of southern Ukrainian culture.

“Museum of Shipbuilding and Fleet, Mykolaiv” by SNCH is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0/

Mykolaiv Airport

Mykolaiv International Airport (IATA: NLV) serves the region and is capable of handling aircraft up to 220 tonnes. Although regular commercial flights are currently suspended, it remains an important logistical site. The airport once offered regular passenger flights to major destinations across Ukraine and abroad.

Today, it stands silent — its operations halted by war — but residents hope it will one day reopen as a gateway for renewal and recovery.

Be Brave Like Mykolaiv – Meaning

The phrase “Be Brave Like Mykolaiv” became a symbol of courage during the Russian invasion of Ukraine. It reflects the city’s resilience and unbreakable spirit in the face of constant shelling and hardship.

The slogan quickly spread across Ukraine and around the world, symbolizing strength, courage, and unity. It came to represent the determination to keep going, to defend one’s home, and to remain human even in the darkest times.

In Canada, the phrase gained international attention when a photo taken in Edmonton showed an airplane with the words “Be Brave Like Mykolaiv” painted on its body — a gesture of solidarity and admiration for the city’s courage. The message has since become a global tribute to Ukrainian resilience.

Recent History and Challenges

Since 2022, the city has faced severe challenges due to the Russian invasion:

The Battle of Mykolaiv (2022): The city withstood heavy bombardments and multiple assaults, successfully defending itself.
Infrastructure Damage: Port facilities, residential areas, and water systems suffered from continuous shelling.
Community Resilience: Despite destruction, local institutions—including Mykolaiv Zoo—continue to function, symbolizing hope and perseverance.

Even amid war, volunteers, city workers, and residents rebuild homes, restore parks, and support the Ukrainian army. Streets that were once silent now echo with the sounds of reconstruction.

The courage of ordinary citizens — teachers, doctors, and volunteers — has become one of the most powerful stories of modern Ukraine.

Global Recognition and Solidarity

Cities around the world have expressed support for Mykolaiv, recognizing its endurance. The phrase “Be Brave Like Mykolaiv” has appeared on murals, humanitarian campaigns, and social media as a tribute to the city’s people. The city now stands not only as a place on the map but as a global symbol of resilience and unity.

Conclusion

Mykolaiv, Ukraine, is more than just a city — it is a story of strength, humanity, and courage. From its people and flag to its cultural landmarks and industrial legacy, it embodies the enduring spirit of southern Ukraine.This message reminds the world that true courage is not only about fighting — it is about rebuilding, protecting, and never losing hope.