Cannock Soroptimists host special evening celebrating Ukraine
Ukrainian guests shared photographs, traditions and their national anthem at an event organised by Soroptimist International Cannock and District
Members of Soroptimist International Cannock and District welcomed Ukrainian friends to a special evening celebrating their homeland and raising funds to support families affected by the war.
The annual International Evening was held at The Barns Restaurant in October, with a presentation of photographs offering an insight into Ukraine beyond the conflict dominating headlines.
Oksana, who came to the area as a refugee and has since joined the Cannock Soroptimists, put together the presentation and wrote a script to accompany the images, which was read by club president Trish.
Oksana said: “I really wanted you to see Ukraine with my eyes and my heart.”
She also baked a traditional Ukrainian loaf of bread, which was shared with guests at the start of the evening. The gesture symbolises welcome and safety, reflecting the Ukrainian tradition of offering bread to visitors.
The Cannock Soroptimists have worked alongside the Rotary Club of Cannock to support Ukrainians who have arrived in the area, helping them settle in, learn English, make friends, access education and find work.
The evening was also attended by Gary Fear, who has made 15 visits to Ukraine to deliver supplies and generators to families in need.
A raffle raised money towards funding another generator.
One of the most moving moments came when Ukrainian guests stood with their hands over their hearts and sang their national anthem.
The event highlighted the challenges faced by those forced to leave their homeland because of the war, and the uncertainty surrounding when they may be able to return.
More information about Soroptimist International Cannock and District is available on its Facebook page or at sigbi.org/cannock-and-district.