Transformation of grief: Dressmaking offers solace to widows and military moms, substituting psychotherapy sessions
In the heart of Russia, a unique community known as the "Club of Their Own" (Клуб своих) is making a significant impact. Established for the support and welfare of mothers, wives, widows, and children of military personnel, these clubs serve as vital social hubs for families connected to the military.
Purpose and Activities
These clubs offer a supportive environment where family members can connect, share experiences, and find emotional support, especially during challenging times such as deployments, relocations, or in times of loss. They also function as platforms for disseminating information about benefits, pensions, healthcare, and legal rights available to military families.
In addition, these clubs organise cultural and educational activities, including events, workshops, and educational programs aimed at children and spouses, reinforcing community bonds and patriotic values. They also play a role in commemoration and remembrance, honouring the contributions and sacrifices of servicemen and their families.
History
The concept of such clubs dates back to the Soviet era, with organisations like the "Women's Councils" or "Societies of Military Wives" formed to provide structured support for military families. During World War II and the post-war period, these groups became especially significant as many families faced hardship due to casualties.
In the post-Soviet period, various military and veterans’ organisations continued the tradition, adapting it to contemporary needs and often associating with formal veterans' councils or the Ministry of Defense’s Family Support initiatives. Today, these clubs exist in many military communities across Russia.
A Modern Example: The Club of Their Own
A recent example of a "Club of Their Own" is the one initiated by the director of the Central Russian Army Theatre, Milena Avimskaya, in March 2025. This club, named "Club of Their Own", holds meetings monthly and is supported by the Moscow branch of "United Russia" and the Moscow branch of "Mothers of Russia".
A poignant example of a member is Laina Chayka, who lost her husband in the SVO in 2024 and formed "The Club of Their Own" for support. Another participant, Natalia Gorshkova, believes that events like the recent fashion show help them remember their feminine strength.
The fashion show, conducted at the Russian Army Theatre, featured a dress from the film "Ivan Vasilyevich Changes Professions" worn by the first model, symbolising Russian cultural code and giving strength and energy to the people. The event was attended by mothers, wives, widows, and children of military personnel, including Tatyana Alikhodyina, a senior advisor to the head of the Republic of Mordovia, whose clothes bore the insignia of her fallen husband, Denis Koudrin, a career officer who led the uprising in Lugansk and participated in the Chernukhino-Debaltseve operation.
The fashion show's designer, Elena Makhina, believes that form, colour, and art can implement the phrase "Beauty will save the world". Participants can join "The Club of Their Own" by calling the theatre administrator at +74956815120.
In conclusion, the "Club of Their Own" serves as a beacon of support and solidarity for military families in Russia, fostering a sense of community, mutual assistance, and patriotic education while providing essential welfare and cultural activities.
- The fashion show hosted by the "Club of Their Own" showcased a dress symbolizing Russian cultural code, offering strength and energy to the attendees, who included individuals from the realms of health-and-wellness, mental-health, and lifestyle, such as Tatyana Alikhodyina, a senior advisor to the head of the Republic of Mordovia.
- The "Club of Their Own" provides a platform for various activities, including workshops, educational programs, and events aimed at both children and spouses, as well as support groups for mental health and well-being, echoing the club's primary goal of fostering a strong, cohesive community.
- The "Club of Their Own" is not only a hub for social interaction and emotional support but also a champion of personal development and self-expression, drawing connections between fashion, beauty, and science by embracing the philosophy that "Beauty will save the world" and encouraging members to explore and cherish their unique identities.
