Ep.57 Iryna and Peter | Reading's Ukrainian Community Centre

In this episode, Iryna Bakaliar, Head Librarian, and Peter Andrijeczko, Chair, of the Reading Ukrainian Community Centre. They discuss how the Reading Ukrainian Community Centre adds value to the local area by supporting the Ukrainian community, particularly the displaced Ukrainians who have arrived since the 2022 invasion. The discussion covers the centre's role in preserving Ukrainian culture through its library, highlighting the importance of the Ukrainian language for children. They also explore various aspects of Ukrainian culture, including food, music, and notable figures in science, art, and sports. Iryna and Peter share the challenges faced by displaced Ukrainians, such as the loss of home and status, and the uncertainty of their visas. Finally, they discuss the support received from the British community and the ongoing need for job opportunities for Ukrainians. The episode concludes with reflections on appreciating life and the kindness shown by the UK.     KEY TAKEAWAYS 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.     TIME CODES 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 culture 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! By Lesya Ukrainka).