Milton Keynes Shortlisted for UK City of Culture 2029
We are delighted to celebrate the exciting news that Milton Keynes has been shortlisted for the UK City of Culture 2029, progressing from an initial longlist of nine locations to become one of just four finalists competing for this prestigious national title.
Earlier this year, Ukraine Appeal Charity and the Ukrainian Supplementary School "Sunflower" proudly supported the campaign by contributing ideas to the city's bid and sharing our vision for how culture can bring communities together.
Celebrating Cultural Harmony Through Songs
Ukraine Appeal took part in the Cultural Harmony: All Nations Meet & Greet event at the Fishermead Trinity Centre — a vibrant celebration of community, heritage and unity across Milton Keynes. Our representative, Olha Pereverzeva, brought Ukrainian culture to the heart of the event through a moving musical performance that resonated deeply with audiences.
Ukraine Appeal and “Sunflower” Join the Milton Keynes City of Codes & Light Festival 2026
On 3 October, Ukraine Appeal and the Education Centre “Sunflower” took part in the City of Codes & Light Festival in Milton Keynes, organised by MKIAC. This was an evening of light, music, creativity and community. From illuminated installations to the Lantern Parade, the event brought together local residents and the Ukrainian community.
Sunflower Ukrainian School pupils are excited to see FC Shakhtar Match at Stamford Bridge
Pupils from the Sunflower Ukrainian Supplementary School enjoyed an unforgettable experience at Stamford Bridge, attending the FC Shakhtar Donetsk vs AEK Athens match thanks to complimentary tickets provided by the Union of Ukrainian Teachers in Great Britain. For the children, it was their first time at a Premier League stadium — a joyful evening filled with excitement, pride and Ukrainian spirit.
Ukraine Appeal Hosts the First Ukrainian Film Screening in Milton Keynes
On 24 September, Ukraine Appeal held its first Ukrainian film screening in Milton Keynes, launching a new programme dedicated to showcasing Ukrainian cinema. More than 60 people attended the screening of Dovbush at MK Gallery, presented as part of the international EMPOWERED UA Film Marathon led by Watch Ukrainian! and supported by MHP‑Hromadi, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine, and KRYLA Culture. Ukraine Appeal served as the local organiser for Milton Keynes.
Run for Heroes 2026: For Those Who Fell, Supporting Those Who Carry the Loss
Run for Heroes 2026 honours Ukraine’s fallen defenders, shares their stories, and raises funds for generators for communities under attack. A powerful community event in Milton Keynes supporting Ukraine during Russia’s ongoing war.
Ukrainians in Milton Keynes Celebrate the 35th Anniversary of Ukraine’s Independence
On Saturday, 22 August 2026, the Ukrainian community of Milton Keynes gathered at the Church of Christ the Cornerstone to celebrate the 35th Anniversary of Ukraine’s Independence. Organised by Ukraine Appeal and the Sunflower Ukrainian Education Centre, the event brought together the Ukrainian community, local residents, MK leaders, and partners for a powerful celebration of Ukrainian culture, resilience, and unity in defending Ukraine's independence and protecting freedom across Europe.
Ukraine Appeal and Sunflower Ukrainian School Support the “Milton Keynes City of Culture 2029 – Back the Bid” Campaign
Ukraine Appeal and Sunflower Ukrainian School proudly support Milton Keynes’ bid to become UK City of Culture 2029. Together with our children, parents, teachers, volunteers and the wider Ukrainian community in Milton Keynes, we are backing the campaign to celebrate the city’s creativity, diversity and cultural strength.
Ukrainian young people take part in Milton Keynes Armed Forces Flag Raising
Sunflower Ukrainian Supplementary School proudly joined the Milton Keynes Armed Forces Day Flag Raising, where pupil Melaniia Borysenko read the poem “Peace in Our Time,” symbolising unity, gratitude, and shared hope between the UK and Ukraine.
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.
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.
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 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.