Discover Ukraine: Volia – Our Fight, Our Freedom, Our Future
This event was a heartfelt celebration of Ukrainian culture, resilience, and resistance in the face of war and historical erasure. I organized it to share the beauty and spirit of modern Ukraine—through live music, a moving photo exhibit by war photographers Kostya & Vlada Liberovy, and traditional food and drinks—while raising awareness of our ongoing fight for identity and freedom.
Most importantly, this evening was dedicated to supporting my dear friend Dmytro, a Ukrainian combat medic who left his career to defend our homeland. Thanks to our community's generosity, we raised $3,120 CAD (91,155 UAH), which has already been sent to fund a CASEVAC vehicle for his unit.
“Discover Ukraine: Volia – Our Fight, Our Freedom, Our Future” was the most meaningful and personal event I have ever organized. At its core, this project was a labor of love—an opportunity to showcase the resilience, strength, and beauty of Ukrainian culture at a time when it is under constant threat.
The inspiration for the event came from a deep desire to confront the ongoing attempts to erase Ukrainian identity. For generations, Ukrainian culture has faced systematic repression—from the bombing of our museums, the banning of our language, and the silencing of our poets, to the recent kidnapping of Ukrainian children who are forcibly raised in Russian-speaking homes. Despite all this, Ukraine’s spirit remains unbroken. This event was about standing tall, reclaiming our narrative, and celebrating everything that makes us who we are.
Through an immersive cultural experience, I wanted to bring the community together and offer a space for education, empathy, and solidarity. The event featured:
Uplifting live Ukrainian music that showcased the emotional depth and modern vibrancy of our cultural traditions.
A powerful photo exhibit by Ukrainian war photographers Kostya and Vlada Liberovy, titled On the Ruins with Hope, capturing the duality of devastation and resilience in wartime Ukraine.
Ukrainian-inspired food and drinks, offering guests a literal taste of our heritage.
Beyond culture, this evening carried an urgent humanitarian mission. All funds raised were dedicated to my dear friend Dmytro, a Ukrainian combat medic whose courage and commitment deeply inspire me. Dmytro left behind his career as a lawyer and rugby coach to serve on the front lines. Despite being 7,000 kilometers apart, I feel a profound connection to his journey and am honored to share his story.
Thanks to the incredible generosity of attendees and supporters, we raised $3,120 CAD (91,155 UAH). These funds have already been sent directly to Dmytro to support his mission—specifically the purchase of a CASEVAC (casualty evacuation) vehicle, which is critical for saving lives on the battlefield.
This event was more than a fundraiser or cultural evening. It was an act of resistance, remembrance, and hope. It was a way to remind ourselves—and others—that even in times of unimaginable pain, culture and community can be powerful tools for healing and perseverance.
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