100 Sakura for Peace

For Their Heroes for Peace: Children Planting Sakura

In the small Ukrainian town of Sakhnovshchyna, a powerful idea took root—one that would bring people together, honor fallen heroes, and teach children the healing power of nature, care and gratitude .

The woman behind it is Ruslana, a mother of two young daughters, Anastasia (9) and Anna (6), and the head of the Unbreakable Hearts  Charitable Foundation. With a heart of gold and unshakable spirit, she has long devoted herself to helping others—especially the most vulnerable children.

On February 12th, Ruslana shared with us her vision: to organize an event where children could connect with nature, learn responsibility, and plant trees. She suggested planting sakura trees, a symbol of friendship and peace, especially between Ukraine and Japan. That’s how the idea for 100 Sakura for Peace – was born. For their heroes for peace children planting sakura.

On March 17th, a beautiful poster designed by a talented young artist from Sakhnovshchyna that captured the spirit of the project was sent to us.

Finally, on March 24th, the first sakura saplings were planted at Sakhnovshchyna Lyceum No.1— the school where the fallen heroes had once been students. With the support of @Sonyachin.kvitu, the local school, the community, and many dedicated individuals, this vision came to life.

Children, parents, teachers, and volunteers came together—led by our dear Ruslana, co-organizer Marina, who has worked with us tirelessly for over two years, and Vitaliy  from Garden Rabbit in Kharkiv , who shared his gardening wisdom. It was a true collaboration of hearts and hands.

Our deepest gratitude goes to the tireless, long-standing supporters of Ukraine—those who have been the wind carrying Ruslana’s vision to communities across the country.

Your support has empowered children to create beautiful spaces in their communities in honor of their heroes—places they will cherish and care for. You have given them the tools to express their gratitude, and a path to share their love for their heroes and their homeland.

Special thanks to Ms. K. Honda and Mr. Y. Nakata—your invaluable support and unwavering dedication have made all the difference. We thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

This project is more than planting trees—it’s about unity, remembrance, healing, and hope.

With every sakura that blooms, the life of each hero lives on—in the petals, in the earth, and in the hearts of a new and old generation. They gave their lives for peace they’d never see—so their children could live in freedom.

We plant each tree in gratitude.

Anna Inoue
The Organizer of
100 Sakura for Peace
Aitsugi Project 2025

The First Place Sakura Planted on March 24 in Sakhnovschyna Kharkiv region.