Kelsie Kimberlin's "Champ" Honors Ukrainian Karate Hero Mariia Hnes

Initially launched on the fourth anniversary of the full invasion of Ukraine (February 24, 2026) American-Ukrainian musician Kelsie Kimberlin shared her new single “Champ.” “Champ” serves as a redemption of hope, strength, dignity, and the resilience of the youth from Ukraine.

“Champ” was inspired by 16-year-old martial arts champion Mariia Hnes’s act of defiance when she chose not to take a podium photo with a Russian athlete at a tournament in Venice, Italy. When asked to do so, she declined based on her father's service in the Ukrainian Armed Forces. Because of this, Hnes’s actions quickly became anointed an act of defiant pride for Ukraine and resonated strongly with those that had the opportunity to witness them.

Kimberlin traveled to film the music video at the height of the missile and drone bombardments of Kyiv in September 2025 with Hnes. A dedicated portion of the music video captures the artist and Hnes seeking shelter together with sirens blaring from the outside, which reflects the realities of life inside a city her family has known – and continues to know – under siege. Throughout the music video, Kimberlin acts as Hnes’s mentor, helping her to find and believe in her own courage and stay on course. The conclusion of the project is one in which being a champion is defined not only by the medals one receives but also by the character one exhibits.

The launch of the song “Champ,” along with a fundraising opportunity to assist in sports programs for children of Ukrainian soldiers, is taking place through “UkrainianChampions.com,” which is being administrated by The Kelsie Kimberlin Foundation, will provide all proceeds collected to directly support young athletes who are still training and competing.

“By having the opportunity to participate in sports, these kids have a sense of purpose and pride while their parents are fighting for their country,” said Kimberlin.

With hundreds of millions of global streams, along with numerous major collaborators with their productions, Kimberlin continues to combine music with humanitarian efforts — transforming her platform into purposeful action.