How Ukrainian community in Leeds unites locals to support Ukraine

What's the problem?

The full-scale Russia-Ukraine war has been raging for almost three years. As the enemy grows more cunning — pressuring not only on the battlefield but also psychologically — active support for Ukraine from abroad becomes crucial.

Organizing this support, involving as many Ukrainians abroad as possible in the effort for victory, and fostering unity and a sense of connection with Ukraine are no easy tasks. It's even harder to encourage foreigners to help Ukraine, especially when many feel "tired" of a war they see as "not their own."

What's the solution?

Building strong Ukrainian diasporas and connecting them with locals to support Ukraine requires strategy and consistent effort. Only with this approach can aid remain stable and impactful. Activists in the UK shared with Rubryka how Ukrainians abroad create an atmosphere of unity and motivation while supporting the Ukrainian Armed Forces and civilians back home.

The Ukrainian community in Leeds, England, formed after World War II, gained momentum after the annexation of Crimea in 2014. The full-scale Russian invasion in 2022 sparked an explosion of volunteer activity.

"From the very first day of the war, we began massive efforts," says Larysa Dumenka, leader of the Leeds Ukrainian Community Association. By February 27, 2022 — just three days into the full-scale war — the community had raised £15,000 for thermal imaging equipment for Ukrainian soldiers. Later, they set up a support center for Ukrainians arriving in Leeds.

In July 2022, the organization officially gained charitable status, which allowed it to expand. Today, the community provides vital support to Ukraine by purchasing generators, Starlink stations, pickup trucks, medical equipment, and electronic warfare systems that protect against Russian drones.

How does it work?

Keeping Ukraine in focus

Since the start of the full-scale invasion, the association has attended or organized around 60 events of various formats — charity fairs, rallies in support of Ukraine, cultural celebrations, concerts, and lotteries — to raise funds.

The association operates with three leading goals: supporting soldiers in Ukraine, helping Ukrainian refugees in the UK, and promoting Ukrainian culture. Every Saturday, the Leeds Ukrainian Center opens its doors to anyone interested. Visitors can connect, try traditional Ukrainian dishes, join holiday celebrations, and learn more about Ukrainian culture. Volunteers host lectures, organize concerts, and run a Ukrainian Saturday school for children. These efforts help Ukrainians preserve their identity and give Britons a genuine glimpse into Ukraine.

"We want people around us to know who Ukrainians are and understand our culture and history," says Larysa Dumenka. "For example, we host evenings dedicated to Ukrainian music, with performances organized by Ukrainian singer Yulia Lord, who lives nearby. We sell varenyky (Ukrainian dumplings – ed.), baked goods, and Ukrainian souvenirs, with all proceeds going to help the army."

At the Ukrainian Center, the varenyky are made on-site. "We even have a slogan: 'If you can't contribute financially, make varenyky — it's also your contribution.' And it really works. Many people come to help make dumplings, and later, everyone looks forward to the events where they can try them. Our varenyky are delicious, made with a special recipe," says the organization's leader.

Events at the Ukrainian Center attract not only Ukrainians but also Britons eager to support Ukraine. Some of these Britons have become active members of the association.

For instance, Julia Nelson, an English lawyer from Leeds, joined after participating in the UK government's Homes for Ukraine program for refugees. She is now a legal representative for the association. Terry Grayshon, a former local councilor and community activist, works to rally public support for Ukraine. Retired veteran and historian John Morrison helps organize events at British military bases, where Ukrainian soldiers train, and seeks ways to procure humanitarian aid.

The community's efforts also led to the opening of a large souvenir shop selling Ukrainian goods in Leeds — reportedly the biggest of its kind in the UK. People even come from London to shop there.

"We sell everything — from small trinkets to embroidered shirts and traditional costumes. Most items are sourced from Ukraine, but we also have volunteers in England who craft, knit, or weave things. This is their donation, their contribution. English buyers love it. They may not be particularly interested in owning something from Ukrainian culture — they simply want to support us. But if they notice something like a motanka doll, we make sure to explain its significance in Ukrainian tradition. This helps Britons better understand our culture," says Larysa Dumenka.

Larysa Dumenka notes that nearly three years into the war, Ukrainians need to raise their voices louder than ever to be heard. The world's focus on Ukraine is gradually fading from the news.

"At the start of the war, Ukraine dominated every news channel," Larysa explains. "Now, coverage is rare, and when it does appear, it's usually framed in a positive light — for instance, when the US provides another billion-dollar aid package. But reports on Russian atrocities? You'll only hear about them if something truly horrific happens, like the bombing of the Ohmatdyt Children's Hospital. Many people have started doubting whether the war in Ukraine is even ongoing."

This is why Larysa and her team believe Ukrainians abroad cannot afford to grow tired. The Leeds Ukrainian Community Association organizes fundraising events, informational campaigns, and meetings with local authorities. Through its activities, it aims to influence public opinion and policy. In May, members of the association met with then-British Foreign Secretary David Cameron.

"We receive so many requests from the front lines," Larysa shares. "The sheer volume motivates us to keep going. We won't stop until Victory, and we all believe in it!"

Does it really work?

The Leeds Ukrainian community has sent over 25 pickups to Ukraine and fulfilled hundreds of requests for humanitarian aid and technical equipment. Their dedicated actions have also caught the attention of local businesses. For instance, the restaurant chain Bundobust and construction company VP Foam Spray are now among the association's sponsors.

Vlad Samoilenko, founder of the Ukrainian charity foundation HURKIT, recalls how his collaboration with the Leeds community began: "It all started through word of mouth, purely as a humanitarian cargo delivery. Later, we requested help purchasing a pickup truck, which they funded. After that came more pickups, charging stations, and other supplies."

He adds that the Leeds volunteers communicate closely with the soldiers they support to ensure the aid meets their needs.

"On top of that, they handle most of the organizational and logistics issues, making things much easier for both the military and other volunteers," Vlad explains.

Even more helpful solutions!

Building an active diaspora is no easy feat. Larysa admits that organizations like the Leeds Ukrainian Community Association are always short-staffed. So how can they attract more people?

"Most of our members joined organically," the activist says. "We didn't launch any big recruitment campaigns. We just kept working, and people who saw what we were doing got inspired and came to us. Our members include refugees and even individuals from other countries. For example, a Japanese student volunteered with us until she returned home. People often approach us and say, 'I want to help — what can I do?' We tell them, 'Join us, observe, and you'll figure out where you can be most helpful.'"

Social media also plays a crucial role in mobilizing support. The community regularly updates its social media accounts and website with event details and news about its work, which helps people interested in Ukrainian culture or volunteering to find all the needed information. Their website includes forms for inquiries and proposals, which many foreigners use to get in touch.

Spread the word about the Ukrainians in Leeds to your friends abroad — and let global support for Ukraine grow stronger!