We are delighted to share our warmest impressions and heartfelt reflections on the inspiring lecture delivered by our colleague, Viktoriia Ulyhanets — PhD in International Law, Director of the African Studies Center at Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, and a researcher who introduces Ukraine to the unique world of East Africa through the lens of legal anthropology. This was far more than a lecture — it was a vivid journey into the everyday lives of more than twenty ethnic communities. Participants explored rites of passage and coming-of-age traditions, family responsibilities, customary forms of marriage, and cultural perceptions of beauty, strength, and authority. Particularly valuable was the thoughtful examination of complex and sensitive topics, including beliefs surrounding «cursed» children (mingi), traditional practices, concepts of crime and punishment, witchcraft, and divination, all presented through the lecturer’s field research and personal experience. We sincerely thank Viktoriia Ulyhanets for her intellectual integrity, academic rigor, and profound respect for cultural diversity, as well as for her ability to address challenging issues with nuance, avoiding simplifications and stereotypes. Meetings like this broaden our horizons, foster intercultural dialogue, and deepen our understanding of human rights in a global context. We warmly congratulate her on this outstanding lecture and wish her continued success, new discoveries, inspiring research, and grateful audiences.
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