He found God.
Rostyslav Semikov, a physician originally from Ukraine who experienced the Soviet Union’s oppressive rule, is working to revitalize Ukraine’s healthcare system by offering training programs for medical professionals that integrate Christian teachings. Semikov, who grew up under the Soviet regime where Christianity was suppressed, fondly remembers his secretive Sunday school classes in the 1980s. These covert Bible studies, held at night or on rooftops, left a lasting impression on him, inspiring him with stories of biblical figures.
Following the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991 and Ukraine’s subsequent independence, Semikov encountered American missionaries, including doctors from St. Louis, Missouri. At the age of 12, he was introduced to Christianity, and the impact of witnessing Christian medical professionals left a profound mark on him. He admired how these missionaries not only shared their faith but also provided superior medical care, which contrasted sharply with the conditions in Ukraine at that time.
Semikov’s appreciation for advanced medical practices was further reinforced when his mother received life-saving diagnostic testing in the U.S. after being diagnosed with breast cancer. This experience motivated him to pursue a medical career and explore international medical practices. He earned his medical degree from Zaporizhzhia State Medical University in 2005 and later studied global health at the University of Oxford.
In 2016, Semikov founded the Peace and Development Foundation, aimed at training Ukrainian healthcare professionals in the U.S. The foundation, which began in Kyiv and expanded to Houston in 2021, collaborates with the Ukrainian Ministry of Health and the Christian Medical Association. The program offers training at top U.S. medical institutions and includes opportunities for Ukrainian doctors to interact with Christian professionals, furthering both their medical and spiritual growth.
Despite facing significant challenges, including financial setbacks due to the Russia-Ukraine war, Semikov’s foundation has made notable strides. Since the war began, the program has trained at least 82 Ukrainian medical professionals in the U.S. and has facilitated attendance at major medical conferences. Semikov remains committed to expanding the program and providing crucial support to his homeland amidst ongoing conflict.