Interviews

Following her election victory in July 2024, British MP Catherine Fookes attended an event with Ukrainian families in Abergavenny within a year of taking office. The meeting made a lasting impression on her.

In the heart of Neath, Wales, a small Ukrainian café is quietly reshaping how locals discover and experience a culture once unfamiliar to them. Ruta Kitchen, opened by entrepreneurs who arrived in Wales following the full-scale invasion of Ukraine, has grown into much more than a restaurant. It’s a community hub, a cultural bridge, and a daily expression of resilience and hospitality.

In the centre of Wrexham, surrounded by historic Welsh buildings, stands a small café with a big story. Zerno Café is more than a place to grab a coffee — it is a symbol of resilience, home, and community. It was created by a Ukrainian family who arrived in Wales as refugees and, through hard work and determination, built a meaningful life for themselves while giving something back to the town that welcomed them.

When Russia’s full-scale invasion forced many Ukrainians to flee their homeland, countless families sought refuge in Wales, facing an uncertain future far from home. Amid the upheaval, one essential aspect of their identity remained a source of strength—their faith. Recognizing the deep spiritual and emotional needs of these displaced people, the Ukrainian Catholic Church took steps to establish a presence in Wales, offering both religious guidance and a sense of belonging.