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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 Yaroslav and Oksana Izviekov, along with their three children, arrived in Wales, they spent seven long months living in a hotel for refugees. A turning point came when they were resettled in Broughton, a village near Wrexham, which became their first real home in the UK. The couple found jobs with Elior, a catering company at the Airbus factory — Yaroslav worked in the coffee shop, and Oksana in another department. It was during this time that a long-held dream was reignited: to open a café of their own.

The name “Zerno” (Ukrainian for grain) holds deep personal meaning. It symbolises growth, potential, and resilience — the very qualities the family drew upon in rebuilding their lives. Starting from scratch, with no previous experience in running a business in the UK and limited resources, Yaroslav wrote a business plan, studied the local market, and found a small premises in the heart of Wrexham. With no budget for renovations, he did most of the work himself.

Zerno Café blends Ukrainian identity with a contemporary café format. The menu features traditional desserts such as Napoleon cake, Medovyk, Kyiv cake, pancakes, and home baking. Alongside these, customers can enjoy popular coffees and original creations like RAF coffee and the “Bumblebee”. The café updates its offerings seasonally and constantly experiments to strike the balance between authenticity and local appeal.

But Zerno is more than good coffee and cake. It is a place filled with warmth. The owners are often present, chatting with customers and remembering their preferences. The interior — with its wooden furniture, wheat decorations, and Ukrainian touches — was crafted with care and love. Many customers stay not just for the drinks, but for the sense of connection.

In a short time, Zerno has become a cultural meeting place. Events held there include charity fundraisers, a chess tournament, a children’s art exhibition, Sunday school sessions for displaced families, and creative workshops such as Petrykivka painting and traditional Easter baking.

The family received initial support from the Welsh Government’s Super Sponsor scheme, as well as business guidance from Business Wales. But the most important source of strength has been the local community, whose kindness and encouragement helped them move forward.

In 2025, Zerno Café was recognised in the “Business and Innovation” category at the Nation of Sanctuary Awards — a national honour that celebrates enterprises supporting and uplifting newcomers. For the Izviekovs, this award carries deep meaning.

“We arrived with nothing but our children. We didn’t just rebuild our lives — we created a space that inspires others,” Yaroslav says.

Cultural identity remains at the heart of Zerno. Everything — from the name, the food, the music, the decor — quietly speaks of Ukraine.

“This is our form of cultural diplomacy,” explains Yaroslav.

British customers respond with curiosity and respect, often learning Ukrainian words and asking about the dishes. “They can tell it’s authentic — and that inspires them too,” he adds.

Looking ahead, the couple plan to update the menu with new breakfasts, seasonal desserts, and locally sourced ingredients. More events are in the works — film nights, creative workshops, cultural evenings. There is even talk of expansion: perhaps a second venue, or small-scale production of baked goods for sale.

“But most importantly,” Yaroslav says, “we want to preserve the soul of Zerno — warmth, quality, and sincerity.”

For the Izviekovs, being Ukrainian entrepreneurs in Wales is both an honour and a responsibility.

“We represent our culture and show that Ukrainians can contribute, create, and inspire — without losing who we are.”

Zerno Café is living proof that something beautiful can grow from the smallest seed — if nurtured with hope, hard work, and heart.

Zerno Café

1-2 High Street, Wrexham
Follow them on Facebook: facebook.com/zernocafe

By Viktor Moroz for Ukrainians.Wales
Published: June, 2025