The resident of the village of Munayka, Gabtenur Akhmetshin, weaves brooms and braids nets for the fighters of the Special Military Operation.

      At 77, he remains an active volunteer, helping defenders and continuing to engage in his favorite activities.

      In the village of Munayka in the Mendeleevsky district lives an amazing person — Gabtenur Akhmetshin. For some, he is simply "Uncle Gena," while for others, he is a true legend of these places. At 77, he cannot imagine life without active involvement and remains an example of boundless kindness, hard work, and love for his small homeland. Photo: © Victoria Kupriyanova / "Mendeleevsky News"

      A Heart Wide Open

      Everyone in Munayka seems to know Gabtenur. He is always ready to greet each person with warmth and an open smile. Locals call him a man of broad soul — and these are not just words. He does not pass by someone else's misfortune and is always ready to help.

      Volunteering: From Trench Candles to Bath Brooms

      Despite his venerable age, Uncle Gena is an active volunteer. He weaves camouflage nets for soldiers in the special military operation zone. His hands know no rest, and his work benefits those who are far from home.

      But Gabtenur's main passion is birch brooms. He personally gathers branches, dries them, and carefully ties them into sturdy, fragrant brooms. For many, a trip to the bath without such a broom is simply not a bath. The secret of his craftsmanship is simple: do everything with soul. Photo: © Victoria Kupriyanova / "Mendeleevsky News"

      The Forest — A Second Heart

      Gabtenur has a deep love for the forest. As long as he has the strength, he enjoys venturing into the thicket: sometimes for branches for brooms, sometimes just to breathe in the fresh air. And if you see him in the forest on a bicycle — don’t be surprised. For him, age is no obstacle to pedaling with enthusiasm.

      Golden Hands and Carpentry Talent

      Uncle Gena truly has golden hands. He is a wonderful carpenter, and everything that comes from his hands is made with care. His wooden creations are a delight to the eye: from elegant birdhouses to sturdy household items.

      The Main Secret of Longevity

      In his free time, Gabtenur loves to surprise his loved ones with culinary masterpieces. They say he knows how to cook deliciously and is always happy to treat guests. Looking at Gabtenur Akhmetshin, one understands: to be useful to society, it is not necessary to be young. You just need to love people, your home, and your homeland. Photo: © Victoria Kupriyanova / "Mendeleevsky News"

      Julia Iskandarova

      More news about the event:

      Resident of the village of Munayka Gabtenur Akhmetshin weaves brooms and makes nets for soldiers in the special military operation

      At 77, he remains an active volunteer, helping defenders and continuing to engage in his favorite activities. 10:09 12.08.2026 Mendeleevsky News - Mendeleevsk

      Resident of the village of Munayka Gabtenur Akhmetshin weaves brooms and makes nets for soldiers in the special military operation

      At 77, he remains an active volunteer, helping defenders and continuing to engage in his favorite activities. 08:59 12.08.2026 Mendeleevsky News - Mendeleevsk