Mark Avetikan, an 11th-grade student from Bilhorod-Dnistrovskyi Lyceum No. 1, was personally awarded the «Future of Ukraine» medal by President Volodymyr Zelenskyy for his acts of bravery, patriotism, and active civic engagement. This was reported on the school’s social media pages.
«This award is not just a recognition; it symbolizes that even in the toughest times, the youth can inspire, act, and defend the values that shape Ukraine’s future,» the lyceum stated.

It is worth noting that on June 23 of this year, an enemy missile struck the Bilhorod-Dnistrovskyi lyceum, claiming the lives of three individuals and injuring 14 others, including two teenagers. One of them, 16-year-old Mark, managed to escape the rubble and also saved his friend.
In August 2025, Denys Platonov, head of the State Emergency Service of Ukraine in Odesa region, presented Mark with the badge of «For Courage in Emergency Situations», and in September, during Rescuer's Day, he was honored at the annual award ceremony for the «Hero - Rescuer of the Year».
The «Future of Ukraine» medal is a state award established in May 2025 to honor citizens of Ukraine, foreigners, and stateless individuals under 18 years old for displaying personal bravery, courage, resilience, patriotism, active civic participation, volunteerism, and defense of universal values, national interests, and a worthy future for Ukraine.