Listen to the episode

00:00 Greeting

00:49 Introduction to Peter

01:29 Introduction to Iryna

03:17 Why it’s important to preserve Ukrainian culture

04:22 Ukrainian words

06:05 Key differences between English and Ukrainian languages

07:15 Learning a foreign language

07:36 Ukrainian cultural highlights

11:29 Some of the challenges in moving to the UK (1968)

13:23 Support for Ukrainians in Reading

14:58 Some of the challenges in moving to the UK (Iryna’s recent experience)

17:57 How to support the Ukrainian community

20:10 What war has taught Iryna

21:42 Reading diversity and number of charities- sign of a good society

23:28 Appreciate what you have

24:18 Peter’s final thoughts

24:42 Visit the Ukrainian centre

25:13 Extract from Iryna’s favourite poem to end (Contra Spem Spero).

The Importance of Community and Support Systems: The Reading Ukrainian Community Centre serves as a vital safe space for other Ukrainians to come and pick up books, but also talk about life. This illustrates the fundamental human need for community, belonging, and a strong support network, especially during times of crisis. It’s a reminder that even small acts of kindness can have a profound impact.

Resilience and Appreciation in Adversity: Despite immense loss and challenges, Ukrainians like Irina express gratitude for their safety and appreciate the simple things.

Adaptability and Reframing Life’s Priorities: Ukrainians, forced to leave their established lives, are learning to “accept the reality” and “start from the beginning” while being grateful for the safety the UK provides. This demonstrates incredible adaptability in the face of involuntary change and a powerful reframing of what truly matters.