Vyshyvanka Runway Transforms Milton Keynes into a Living Artwork
Vyshyvanka Runway: The Code of Identity transformed Milton Keynes city centre into a vibrant living artwork created by the Ukrainian community. More than 100 displaced women and children crafted 30 embroidered tapestries representing all regions of Ukraine, turning the city into a powerful celebration of culture, identity, and unity. This unique street‑art installation by Ukraine Appeal highlights the resilience of Ukrainians in the UK and the strength of community, heritage, and shared memory.
Ukraine Appeal CEO Represents Our Community at the Royal Garden Party
Ukraine Appeal CEO Viktoriya Shtanko was honoured to represent the Ukrainian community at the Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace, a prestigious event recognising individuals who make a positive impact in the UK. Her invitation highlights the growing contribution of Ukrainians in Milton Keynes and the important work of our charity supporting families, culture, and community resilience.
Ukraine Appeal Shortlisted for MK Community Foundation Charity Awards
Ukraine Appeal has been shortlisted as a finalist in the MK Community Foundation Charity Awards 2026 in the Arts & Heritage category. This recognition highlights our cultural, educational, and community work in Milton Keynes and the positive impact we’ve made over the past year.
40 Years Since the Chornobyl Disaster: Remembrance Day in Milton Keynes (VIDEO)
Milton Keynes marks 40 years since the Chornobyl disaster with a community remembrance event honouring victims and promoting peace. Organised by Viktoriya Shtanko on behalf of Ukraine Appeal, Sunflower Ukrainian School, and the Ukrainian community in Milton Keynes, in partnership with the MK Peace Pagoda and The Parks Trust.
Ukrainian Saturday School “Sunflower” Receives Official Status from the Ministry of Education of Ukraine
The Ukrainian Saturday School “Sunflower” in Milton Keynes has been officially recognised by the Ministry of Education and Science of Ukraine as an overseas educational centre. This status confirms that students’ Ukrainian‑language, literature and history studies will now be formally accredited in Ukraine, strengthening educational continuity for families abroad.
High Sheriff Honours Ukraine Appeal’s CEO
Ukraine Appeal Executive Director Viktoria Shtanko has received an honorary High Sheriff’s Award in recognition of her service to the community. During the award ceremony, Viktoria thanked the High Sheriff of Buckinghamshire, Pippa Kirkbride, for this significant recognition.
Supporting Ohmatdyt: How Our Community Turned Compassion Into Action
Ukraine Appeal and Ukrainian community in Milton Keynes donated £500 to support Ohmatdyt Children’s Hospital in Kyiv through a community‑led fundraiser and emergency appeal. Thanks to donations from our “Andriyivski Vechornytsi” charity performance, additional contributions after the missile attack on the hospital, and the commitment of our volunteers, essential medicines have now been purchased and delivered. This joint effort by the Milton Keynes Ukrainian community, Sunflower School, and our partners in Ukraine shows how compassion and unity can bring real help to children in need.
Ukraine Appeal Charity Delivers Christmas Hope to Children’s Hospitals in Kyiv
Ukraine Appeal CIO and the Sunflower Ukrainian School helped deliver 110 Christmas parcels to children in Kyiv hospitals, offering comfort during war and treatment. Prepared by the Ukrainian community in Milton Keynes, the gifts highlight the charity’s ongoing humanitarian support for families in Ukraine.
Andriivski Vechornytsi in Milton Keynes (PHOTO)
This December, the Ukrainian community of Milton Keynes, together with Ukraine Appeal, gathered for a fun and colourful celebration of Andriivski Vechornytsi — one of the most beloved youth traditions that has been part of Ukrainian culture for centuries. See photos from our vibrant celebration, uniting young people — and all who feel young at heart — through Ukrainian traditions, music, and festive fun.
Living Archive MK Features Ukraine Appeal CEO Viktoriya Shtanko in “A Museum for a New City”
Living Archive MK spotlights Ukraine Appeal CIO CEO Viktoriya Shtanko, whose story traces her path from Ukraine to Milton Keynes and the founding of a charity supporting displaced families. Her experience highlights MK’s welcoming community and the city’s growing Ukrainian heritage.
CEO of Ukraine Appeal Participates in National Online Seminar on Holodomor Awareness
Ukraine Appeal CEO Viktoriya Shtanko joined a national online seminar on Holodomor awareness, contributing to the UK‑wide campaign for recognition of the 1932–1933 Holodomor as genocide. The event united Ukrainian community leaders, historians and partners committed to preserving historical truth.
Ukrainian “Red Viburnum” at ART in the Park in Milton Keynes
During Refugee Week, the Ukrainian community of Milton Keynes united for a heartfelt march filled with music, pride and the iconic song “Червона калина” (“Red Viburnum”). Families, children and volunteers walked together, carrying symbols of hope and resilience in support of Ukraine. The event was organised in partnership with MKIAC as part of the ART in the Park project, with creative contributions from the Sunflower Ukrainian Saturday School‑Club, designer Alice, and the ongoing support of Ukraine Appeal Charity. Together, we continue to raise our “red viburnum”, uplifting Ukraine and celebrating our culture in Milton Keynes.
Faces of the Ukrainian Dream: Ukrainian Children’s Voices Heard at Bletchley Park
The exhibition Faces of the Ukrainian Dream has opened at Bletchley Park. From 12–29 August 2025, visitors are invited to step into a deeply moving collection of drawings, letters and reflections created by children whose lives have been shaped by Russia’s full‑scale invasion of Ukraine. Organised by Ukraine Appeal CIO in partnership with the Sunflower Ukrainian Supplementary School and the All‑Ukrainian Association Patriot, the exhibition forms part of Bletchley Park’s international Summer of Peace programme, marking the anniversaries of VE Day and VJ Day.
British‑Ukrainian Christmas Tree Installed at Milton Keynes Central Library
Ukraine Appeal CIO and the Sunflower Ukrainian Supplementary School proudly present a British‑Ukrainian Christmas tree at Milton Keynes Central Library. Decorated by local Ukrainian children, the tree symbolises unity, resilience and the vibrant Ukrainian community in Milton Keynes.
Ukraine Appeal and Sunflower Ukrainian School at the City of Code and Lights Festival 2024
The Ukrainian community of Milton Keynes took part in the City of Code and Lights Festival 2024, a vibrant celebration of creativity, innovation, art and technology. Children from the Sunflower Ukrainian Saturday School presented their handmade light installations, showcasing culture, talent and community spirit.
Ukraine Appeal Delivers Four Generators to Kherson Region
Ukraine Appeal has delivered four inverter generators to the Kherson region, providing essential heat and power to communities affected by ongoing attacks. Funded through donations and volunteer support, this mission brings real help and hope to Ukrainians facing infrastructure damage and daily hardship.
Ukrainian Community of Milton Keynes Joins Vyshyvanka Parade in London
Representatives of the Ukrainian community in Milton Keynes joined the vibrant Vyshyvanka Parade in London, proudly showcasing traditional embroidery and cultural heritage. Ukraine Appeal Charity took part in the march, celebrating unity, identity, and support for Ukraine. More photos from the event are now available.