A group of Ukrainians who have found a new home in Staffordshire following Russia’s invasion of their homeland marked Ukraine’s Independence Day by completing a remarkable ascent to the summit of Snowdon – raising money to assist grassroot humanitarian organisations operating in areas of conflict.
Approximately 50 walkers conquered the Miners Path to reach the peak of Snowdon on Ukraine Independence Day, 24 August.
The Independence Day of Ukraine is an annual commemoration of their Declaration of Independence in 1991. This year’s celebration held a special significance as it showcased the indomitable spirit and unity of the Ukrainian community in Staffordshire.
Olga Soloviova, a Ukrainian expatriate residing in Staffordshire since 2014, was the driving force behind the hike. Olga has been actively involved in fundraising efforts for the residents of Dnipro and Kherson, which have been on the front lines of the conflict since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.
“I am from Dnipro and arrived in the UK in 2014. When the war started last year, we immediately became sponsors for my husband’s two sisters and their four children”, explained Olga.
“Since then, I have become a liaison person between British and Ukrainians, helped refugees with adjusting to UK life and helped in leading a refugee group for the Stafford area for more than 140 refugees, organising or helping to organise several events for refugees in Stafford.”
In addition to her humanitarian efforts, Olga became involved in the Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce Positive Pathways programme, cordinated by Julie Priestnall.
Positive Pathways is a business start-up and employability skills program that supports refugees across Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire. Participants receive business start-up advice and employability skills such as CV writing and interview techniques.
Julie said: “The walk was long and challenging at times, especially on the way down but the group was united throughout the whole day. We were overwhelmed by the constant support both up and down the mountain and we have raised so far a total of £,1282 which will go to an amazing frontline charity Tarilka- Kherson.
“The group consisted of different ages and abilities from age 7 years to 69 years and everyone had different fitness levels but even for the fittest, it was still a challenge.
“It was a great experience for everyone and the whole group are really proud of their achievements.”
Olga added: “I got involved with Positive Pathways and the Chambers as they were the most responsive and encouraging organisation following to my appeal for help with support for Ukrainians arriving in Staffordshire.
“Julie Priestnall from Positive Pathways has been very supportive, especially with the Independence Day walk. This was invaluable for me as it is my first experience organising this kind event – a hiking trip and a fundraiser all in one!
“We walked to the summit to encourage each other that the dream of independence, peace and united families is achievable no matter how Herculian the task ahead is.
“It was also an opportunity to reflect on the many thousands who have lost their lives or been injured, and on the millions of people in Ukraine and around the world whose lives have been shattered by Russia’s act of war.
“The view to the horizon was magnificent.”
Julie Priestnall added: “Olga and the people she works with have been incredibly supportive of Ukrainians arriving in Staffordshire as well as people back in her homeland since the outbreak of war. It has been a real pleasure to work with Olga in organising this special event to highlight the plight of millions of Ukrainians and I am looking forward to reaching the peak with this wonderful group of people.”
You can learn more about this event and support Ukrainian refugees’ fundraiser at the event’s Facebook group, Walking up Snowdon for Ukraine.
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