For Svitlana Phillips, the saying “you can take the girl out of the country, but you can’t take the country out of the girl” perfectly captures her enduring connection to Ukraine. Originally from Chutove in the Poltava Region, Svitlana has become a pillar of support for Ukrainians in Wales, channeling her love for her homeland into meaningful action through her role as chairperson of “Voice of Ukraine Wales.”
Svitlana Phillips
From Teacher to Community Leader
Svitlana’s story begins in 1999 when she arrived in London as a qualified teacher of Russian and English languages from Poltava Pedagogical University. While her initial career plans shifted, her desire to make a difference remained constant. The pivotal moment came in 2014 with Russia’s annexation of Crimea, when she joined a demonstration at the NATO Summit in Newport. There, she found her calling and a community of like-minded individuals who would later form “Voice of Ukraine Wales.”
“That autumn, we organized our first fundraising event called ‘Taste of Ukraine,'” Svitlana recalls. “We cooked traditional Ukrainian food in my kitchen and arranged entertainment, raising £3,700 in one evening.” This successful initiative became the catalyst for a decade of dedicated volunteer work.
Building Bridges Between Nations
Voice of Ukraine Wales
Under Svitlana’s leadership, “Voice of Ukraine Wales” has become a respected organization in South Wales, known for its cultural promotion and humanitarian efforts. As a recognition of the organization’s impact, Svitlana has twice had the honour of addressing the Welsh Parliament (Senedd), representing the Ukrainian community in Wales. The organization has also played a crucial role in supporting the Disaster Emergency Committee (DEC) announcements at the Senedd.
Since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, their work has intensified dramatically. The organization has raised tens of thousands of pounds through various initiatives, from traditional Ukrainian dinners to golf tournaments and rugby events. They have helped place over 30 Ukrainian families in Wales and England, providing crucial support during their transition.
Working closely with various partners, including the Embassy of Ukraine, UAID, and the Association of Ukrainians in GB, Svitlana and her team ensure their support reaches those who need it most. A particularly crucial partnership exists with Dr. Irina Kaptur, who helps channel medical supplies to the eastern front of Ukraine, ensuring direct support reaches frontline medics.
Sharing Ukrainian Culture
Fashion show in Ystradgynlais
The organization’s impact extends beyond humanitarian aid. In 2022, they formed Dance4Ukraine, a dance group that has become an integral part of their fundraising efforts. The group performs at various community events, festivals, and celebrations across South Wales, sharing Ukrainian culture through traditional dance. “Every single concert, every single dance is dedicated to Ukraine,” Svitlana explains. Their performances at events like the Pennard Carnival and Christmas Carols Ukrainian Style have become highlights of the local cultural calendar.
“We try to organize events where we can not only raise funds but also give back to local communities by sharing our culture and stories,” she says. This approach has fostered deep connections and sustained support from South Wales residents.
Among countless meaningful experiences, one story particularly touches Svitlana’s heart. She speaks warmly of a fundraising fashion show in Ystradgynlais, organized by Ann Soroka, a Welsh woman in her 90s whose late husband was a Ukrainian refugee after World War II. The event, which raised £2,700, exemplified the enduring Welsh-Ukrainian friendship that spans generations.
Looking to the Future
Like many small volunteer organizations, “Voice of Ukraine Wales” faces challenges, particularly with time and resources. “We desperately need help with IT and website development,” Svitlana explains. “All our records are on Facebook, which makes us vulnerable. We fear losing a decade’s worth of memories and achievements.” Advertising is another hurdle. While social media and occasional radio interviews help, a more robust advertising strategy would greatly enhance their reach.
As they enter their third year of responding to the full-scale invasion, Svitlana and her team remain committed to their mission. They have ambitious plans for upcoming events, including “Taste of Ukraine,” St. David’s Day Concert, Golf Day, and Rugby Day. Their annual walk event, which commemorates the years of war, continues to be a poignant reminder of their mission. “Last year, we walked 10 kilometres for 10 years of war; this year, it will be 11 kilometres for 11 years.”
Ukrainian Independence Day 2024
Voice of Ukraine Wales welcomes new members and volunteers who want to make a difference. Those interested in supporting their work can connect with the organization through their Facebook page “Voice of Ukraine Wales” or join their Facebook group to stay updated on upcoming events and volunteer opportunities. The organization particularly welcomes assistance with IT development, event planning, and community outreach.
“Was I trying to do my best? Absolutely! But none of this would be possible without the incredible support of my husband, daughter, and the amazing people of South Wales. Together, we believe that Ukraine can and will prevail.”
Christmas Carols 2024
By Viktor Moroz for Ukrainians.Wales
Published: June, 2025
