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.
Local Media Celebrates Ukrainian Couple’s Royal Garden Party Appearance
MKFM has highlighted the inspiring participation of Ukrainians at the Royal Garden Party, recognising it as an achievement not only for our Ukrainian community but for the wider Milton Keynes family. A Ukrainian couple from MK, invited to Buckingham Palace last week, even earned a charming new nickname — “The Ukrainian Bridgertons” — thanks to their elegant and beautifully traditional attire that captured the attention of visitors. Their presence at this prestigious event reflects the growing contribution, cultural pride, and resilience Ukrainians bring to local life, and celebrates the strong support shown by residents across the city.
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.
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 Parish of St George Receives Official Status in Milton Keynes
The Ukrainian Church Parish in Milton Keynes has officially received its recognised status, marking a significant milestone for the local Ukrainian community. Now formally known as the Orthodox Ukrainian Parish of St George the Victorious, Milton Keynes City, the parish strengthens the spiritual and cultural life of Ukrainians who have made the city their home.
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.
Ukrainian Community Joins Milton Keynes St David’s Day Celebration Honouring Gareth Jones
Ukraine Appeal Charity joined the Milton Keynes St David’s Day celebration honouring Welsh journalist Gareth Jones, whose reporting exposed the Holodomor. CEO Viktoriya Shtanko spoke at the MK Rose, laying flowers on behalf of the Ukrainian community and highlighting the importance of truth and remembrance.
Standing with Heroes: Honouring Memory, Supporting the Future
Ukraine Appeal brought the community together for Standing with Heroes, a moving event honouring those who gave their lives for Ukraine’s freedom. In a space of remembrance and solidarity, we reflected on the courage of fallen defenders and those still protecting Ukraine today. Thanks to the generosity of our supporters, an EcoFlow generator funded through the event has now been delivered to the Sumy region, providing vital assistance to people living under constant threat. This collective effort shows the strength, unity, and compassion of the Milton Keynes Ukrainian community and our partners.
Ukrainian Community in Milton Keynes Thanks City Council for Raising the Ukrainian Flag
The Ukrainian community in Milton Keynes extends its sincere gratitude to Milton Keynes City Council for raising the Ukrainian flag alongside the Union Jack — a powerful gesture of solidarity, friendship, and shared values.
Holocaust Memorial Day: We Remember Together
Ukraine Appeal joined the Milton Keynes Holocaust Memorial Day service to honour victims and heroes of the Holocaust. Standing in solidarity with the Jewish community, we remember together — choosing humanity, compassion, and unity against hatred.
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.
Ukrainian Kolyadky at Bletchley Park: A Song of Gratitude and Friendship
The Ukrainian community of Milton Keynes brought the spirit of Christmas to Bletchley Park with a heartfelt performance of traditional kolyadky — Ukrainian festive carols filled with hope and light. Children and adults from the Sunflower Ukrainian Supplementary School and Ukraine Appeal Charity shared these cherished songs as a gesture of gratitude to Bletchley Park and local residents for their ongoing support of Ukrainians. This special moment celebrated culture, community, and friendship, uniting visitors through music that has been passed down through generations.
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.
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.
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.