A taste of Ukraine

We had the privilege of being in Swansea on Saturday 24 August for Ukrainian Independence Day. Over a hundred people gathered in St. David’s Place to celebrate Україна’s thirty-third birthday.

Smiling people at Ukrainian Independence Day celebrations.

The Welsh Refugee Council was one of the main sponsors of this event organised by Sunflowers Wales, a community group run by Ukrainian volunteers here in Wales. The group supports Ukrainians affected by the Russian invasion in their home country while also providing community links to Ukrainian refugees in Wales. From food to traditional clothing, dance to music, Saturday’s event showcased the very best of Ukrainian culture. One of our personal highlights included a spine-tingling rendition of the national anthem.

Woman helping children during an art workshop.

 

There were crafts, face painting, and circus tricks, which meant the kids had plenty of fun too!

Hearing the inspiring stories of those who have come here to Cymru, a recurring theme was the real croeso they had received. A welcome summed up by a poem from the day:

 

“Nothing could replace a native HOMEWoman making a heart with her hands. She has the Ukrainian flag painted on her cheek.
but you can find a place that makes you feel like home.
I can’t open the door of my house anymore,
but I found a place which reminds me about it”.

Heart-warming words after the sad events of the last month.

Дякую to our Ukrainian friends for a day to remember!

Events like these illuminate the stories, songs, and people who all play a part in Welsh culture as we know it. We’re excited to delve deeper and discover more about the people who have found a place that makes them feel like home, in Wales. To find out more about the project, visit our Shaping Nations webpage.