Cadet of Kharkiv National University of Internal Affairs, Yana Shelemba took second place in MMA International Championship in Tbilisi, where competed with athletes from over 60 countries of the world. This is a bright example of joining of the strength of mind, training and internal fire which lead to the top of sport.

Behind the scene of the victory are years of hard training in sport club, self-discipline, dedication to work, trainers support, university community and relatives. Her way is a balance between education, physical training and the desire to be better in selected sport.

‘When you know that you represent your own country each fight has double responsibility. When I was announced on second place, I felt silent happiness and in the same time the strength of responsibility. It’s not just a model, it’s a promise to yourself and to whom who believed in myself: I’m continuing to move forward. I’m grateful to trainers, university and everyone who supported me. This result in joint success and I want it to inspire other cadets of KhNUIA do not afraid of dreaming’, said Yana.

Such international success is another step towards recognition of our police university cadets in sport and educational community of Ukraine and of the World. Yana approves that studying in Higher Educational Institution and sports achievements can and must be combined as her biography includes a whole list of impressive titles: Ukrainian Champion in MMA and hand-to-hand combat, bronze winner at the 2022 World Championships, 2023 World Youth Champion, 2024 and 2025 European Champion, in 2024-2025 she was awarded honorary sports titles, including ‘Master of Sports of International Class” and recognition as the best young athlete of IMMAF.

Yana’s example shows that even during martial law and probation, Ukrainian young people are able to achieve international success and bring glory to our country. Her experience inspires other cadets and students of KhNUIA to strive for excellence in studying, sports and service for the benefit of Ukraine.

The interview with the winner of the International MMA World Championship is available at: https://youtu.be/yPEZbdJ6gyM