Chair of Swindon Welcomes Ukraine and main organiser of UkraineFest, coming up in Town Gardens on 24th August, has been nominated for the BBC 'Make a Difference' Community Award.
Sofiia Volvyk, a courageous young woman from Kharkiv in Ukraine, has been nominated for the prestigious BBC "Make a Difference Award" in recognition of her commitment to supporting and building a new Ukrainian community in Swindon and raising money for Ukrainian charities. The award, which celebrates individuals who have made a positive impact in their communities, highlights Sofiia's resilience, dedication, and her efforts to support others.
Educated at the Kharkiv University Academy of Art and Design, Volvyk's journey began within the culture and artistic landscape of Ukraine. She later ventured into the world of retail marketing, serving as a retail marketing manager for New Balance in Ukraine. She travelled to Swindon with her mother and sister in April last year travelling through six countries before arriving with a host in Swindon.
Sofiia's dedication has extended beyond her professional life. An active member of the walking community in Ukraine, she set about a big challenge to raise money for charities as she walked from Swindon to Ben Nevis in Scotland last year in her 'Pilgrimage to the Peak’, raising over £5000.
"I care deeply about the Ukrainian community all over the world and I am so grateful to the people of the United Kingdom for showing such kindness in opening their homes to Ukrainians. My next project is to share some of our culture, art, music and food by holding the first ever UkraineFest in Old Town, Town Gardens, on our Ukrainian Independence Day 24th August. It is for English people to get a taste for all things Ukrainian and is a day to celebrate and remember.”
Inspired by the strength of her fellow Ukrainians during her journey, Sofiia has dedicated her time to supporting and empowering her community. Sofiia has also run training sessions for Ukrainian entrepreneurs all across the South West to help them start businesses in the UK.
The BBC "Make a Difference Award" nomination stands as a testament to Sofiia Volvyk's commitment to making a positive impact and inspiring change. Her journey from Ukraine to England exemplifies the power of community and her work to strengthen and support the community since the 400 Ukrainians started arriving in Swindon in March last year.
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