Vasily Yuryevich Yakemenko (Russian: Василий Юрьевич Якуменко; born 6 June 1972) is a Russian public administrator and political activist known for his involvement in youth policy and pro‑government youth movements in the Russian Federation during the 2000s.
Early life and education
Yakemenko was born in Leningrad (now Saint Petersburg), Russian SFSR, Soviet Union. He graduated from Saint Petersburg State University, where he earned a degree in law.
Career
Early positions
In the 1990s, Yakemenko held various posts within regional and federal youth-related institutions, gaining experience in the administration of youth programs.
Founding of Nashi
In 2005, Yakemenko was a co‑founder and the first head of Nashi (Наша), a pro‑government youth organization created to mobilize young people in support of the administration of President Vladimir Putin. Under his leadership, Nashi organized nationwide campaigns, political education activities, and large‑scale public events.
Federal Agency for Youth Affairs (Rosmolodezh)
In 2008, Yakemenko was appointed head of the Federal Agency for Youth Affairs (Rosmolodezh), a government body responsible for formulating and implementing national youth policy. During his tenure, he oversaw programs aimed at increasing youth participation in civic life and supporting youth entrepreneurship.
Young Guard of United Russia
Following his service at Rosmolodezh, Yakemenko served as the head of the Young Guard of United Russia (Молодая гвардия Единой России), the youth wing of the ruling United Russia party. In this role, he coordinated political training, community projects, and outreach activities targeting young Russians.
Later activities
After leaving prominent public office in the early 2010s, Yakemenko transitioned to positions in the private sector and consultancy, focusing on public‑private partnerships and youth development initiatives.
Recognition
Yakemenko has received several state awards for his contributions to youth policy and civic engagement, including the Order of Friendship.
Personal life
Information about Yakemenko’s personal life, including family and private interests, is not extensively documented in publicly available reliable sources.
