Ukrainian mum who fled the war invites people to Peace Day event at Wayfarers Arcade in Southport

A mother who fled to Southport is hosting a celebration of Ukrainian culture on International Peace Day, to remind people that the country’s situation is ’far from over’ and that people who have fled ‘stand strong’ no matter where they are.

When the war broke out in Ukraine, Nina Karetska, 32 years old, made the ‘immediate decision’ to leave, with her 10-month-old daughter, Emilia, to Southport through the Homes for Ukraine scheme.

Nina stayed with Amy and Jaan Talvet who she is ‘incredibly grateful’ for and who was a ‘pillar of support’ during difficult times. 

Remembering her last days at home, Nina said she was: ‘terrified’.

“I left my home in Odessa on the first day of the war. I remember it vividly—5am, the sound of explosions, and the shock of realising that war had started, that it was happening to us. 

“It was terrifying, not so much for my own life, but for my daughter’s. That’s why I made the immediate decision to leave.

“It was incredibly difficult. We spent nights in the car with my infant daughter. It was February, with temperatures dropping to -10°C, and we were stuck in traffic for 10 days trying to leave the country. 

“We slept on the floor whenever we could find a place to stop. At one point, I just couldn’t take it anymore. I saw how hard it was on my daughter. So, we decided to wait in Western Ukraine while we applied for a UK visa.”

While Nina’s parents and some of her relatives still remain in Ukraine, she thought forming a Ukrainian community in Southport was important not only for her but for everyone else who is far from home.

“It provides a sense of belonging, support, and connection to our heritage,” she added.

Since moving to Southport, Nina has fallen in love with the town – especially the ‘warm and welcoming’ atmosphere. She has been able to find work and build a network of friends.

Her daughter, Emilia is also thriving at nursery and has settled in well. 

Now, Nina is excited to bring both Ukrainian and English communities together on Saturday 21st September 2024, with a celebration at Wayfarers Shopping Arcade on Lord Street in Southport.

There will be something for all ages, with workshops where children can learn traditional crafts such as making Motanka dolls, a choir and a DJ showcasing Ukrainian hits.

Visitors will be able to buy souvenirs and sample traditional Ukrainian baked goods and there will be a raffle at the end of the day with special Ukrainian gifts, some all the way from the country and others which have been handcrafted.

Nina said:

“We want to share more about our people and traditions, as we truly have much to offer.

“All proceeds will go towards supporting our community, as we are in great need of support. Our goal is to help each other and pass on our culture to our children.”

Nina says celebrations like these are ‘crucial’ for Ukrainians living in Southport, providing people with an opportunity to come together and support each other whilst also maintaining a sense of community.

“While our country is still at war and many lives are being lost, we have families and friends who remain in Ukraine, enduring this conflict every day. 

“By holding events like this, we aim to draw attention to the ongoing struggle and remind people that the situation is far from over.

“We stand strong, no matter where we are.”

Nina explained how almost every Ukrainian who has fled is still ‘well aware’ of what is going on back home, receiving missile alerts on their phone.

“We are deeply concerned for our loved ones who remain in Ukraine and face uncertainty about what tomorrow will bring.

“The news is profoundly saddening, every day we lose children and innocent civilians due to the constant missile strikes on Ukrainian cities.

“I believe the world has started to forget that the war in Ukraine is still ongoing. It doesn’t seem to be as prominently covered in the news anymore, and that’s concerning because the situation remains dire and continues to impact countless lives.”

She hopes the celebration this month, which is also on International Peace Day, will draw some attention to those who will never forget what is happening to their country.

Nina is excited to share the special day with as many people as possible.

Visitors can enjoy choirs, workshops, singing, theatre performances, a painting workshop, guitar playing, Ukrainian souvenirs and music. You can taste some delicious samples of Ukrainian food.

Come and support Southport’s Ukrainian community at the historic arcade, on Lord Street, on International Peace Day: Saturday, 21st September between 11am and 4pm. Admission free. 

Find more information about the event Wayfarers Arcade in Southport here.

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