Existential crises and traumatic events, such as war and the COVID-19 pandemic, severely impact mental health through rapid changes, significant casualties, infrastructure destruction, and displacement. Drawing on the importance of shifting from a pathology-based to a strengths-based approach during chronic adversity, Dr. Masha Yukhymenko will highlight how a strong sense of purpose in life can significantly promote resilience and perseverance amidst adversity. In her talk, Dr. Yukhymenko will present findings from studies on university students in Ukraine who faced the war and discuss ongoing projects examining the role of purpose in life during traumatic events. She will conceptualize purpose development as not only awareness of life’s goals but also the resolve to make consistent efforts to strengthen one’s sense of purpose and make a societal impact. Additionally, she will share strategies for fostering and cultivating purpose in student populations to enhance their resilience and well-being.