Ukraine Appeal Co‑Organises the Second Stronger Together Forum in London
Representatives of Ukrainian organisations from across the United Kingdom gather in London for the second Stronger Together Forum on 24 September 2026.
On 24 September 2026, leaders of Ukrainian organisations from across the United Kingdom gathered in London for the second Stronger Together Forum — a national platform designed to unite community leaders, charities and civic organisations, and to strengthen cooperation, partnership and support for Ukraine. This year, Ukraine Appeal proudly contributed as a committed co‑organiser, reinforcing its role in bringing communities together and advancing advocacy efforts across the UK.
Hosted at St John the Baptist Church, the Forum brought together representatives of charities, community organisations, cultural institutions, business partners and diplomatic missions. The event was organised jointly with the Embassy of Ukraine in the United Kingdom, Support Ukraine, British Ukrainian Aid, and Ukraine Appeal, with the support of Meest, the Association of Ukrainian Women in Great Britain, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine.
A Platform for Dialogue, Partnership and Impact
The Forum welcomed leaders from across the UK—from Edinburgh, Belfast and Cardiff to Plymouth, Manchester and London—demonstrating the unity and reach of the Ukrainian community nationwide.
The event highlighted the extraordinary dedication of volunteers and organisers who worked tirelessly to bring together Ukrainian leaders and British allies for open, honest dialogue. As noted in the shared reflections, the Forum has grown from a small initiative into a significant national platform thanks to the commitment of individuals who “put Ukraine’s interests above their own” and worked without rest to make the gathering possible.
Panels and Key Themes
The programme featured panel discussions, keynote contributions from distinguished guests, networking sessions and experience‑sharing among organisations working to support Ukraine and Ukrainians in the UK. Participants explored how to strengthen cooperation between Ukrainian communities and British partners, build sustainable advocacy initiatives, and develop long‑term projects that contribute to Ukraine’s resilience and recovery.
Across multiple panels, speakers addressed:
strengthening cooperation between Ukrainian organisations and British institutions;
promoting Ukrainian culture, language and identity among children and young people;
building sustainable partnerships with businesses and corporate donors;
advancing humanitarian support, reconstruction initiatives and long‑term resilience.
Viktoriya Shtanko presents Ukraine Appeal’s wellbeing programme Telling My Story, a community initiative designed to support Ukrainians experiencing displacement.
Viktoriya Shtanko speaks at the second Stronger Together Forum in London on 24 September 2026.
Ukraine Appeal’s Contribution
Viktoriya Shtanko, Ukraine Appeal’s Executive Director and Founder & CEO, contributed to the Forum as a director, speaker and moderator of the panel on identity, youth and education. In her presentation, she introduced Ukraine Appeal’s wellbeing programme Telling My Story, created to support Ukrainians experiencing displacement. She emphasised the importance of rediscovering personal identity and reconnecting with inner resources as a foundation for rebuilding life after forced relocation. Viktoriya highlighted that strong individuals create strong families and strong communities, and that personal recovery is essential for the resilience of the wider Ukrainian community in the UK.
Moving Forward Together
As Ukraine continues to face immense challenges, the Forum remains a vital space for solidarity, strategic cooperation and shared purpose. Organisers expressed confidence that Stronger Together will continue to expand, bringing more organisations into meaningful partnerships and strengthening Ukraine both within the UK and abroad.
The Stronger Together Forum is a fully volunteer‑led initiative, funded by organisers and supported by partner organisations. Thanks to this collective effort, the Forum continues to grow, offering valuable workshops, practical guidance and opportunities for collaboration throughout the year. We are deeply grateful to all organisations and individuals who made this year’s Forum possible.
Ukraine Appeal is honoured to contribute to this work and remains committed to supporting Ukrainians, amplifying their voices and building lasting connections across the UK.
