My entire world changed on February 24, 2022

Just before sunrise, I woke up to air raid sirens and the news that Russia had invaded my country. In less than 15 minutes, I packed everything I could. Then, my sister, her 3-month old son, her cat, and I drove from Kyiv to Austria.

The Generosity of Strangers

In our 6-day journey to escape the conflict, Rotary International became a lifeline. Rotary members reached out to me at critical moments, offering not just logistical support but also meeting us personally to provide comfort, supplies, and guidance.

The generosity and the strength of the Rotary network empowered me to set up a system to connect fleeing Ukrainians with safe housing.

Read More on Rotary

In the past 3 years, I traveled to over 20 countries to raise awareness and fundraise for dozens of humanitarian projects aimed at supporting those affected by the war.

Initially, my efforts were focused on providing temporary housing for displaced Ukrainians, ensuring they had a safe place to stay amidst the chaos. However, as the crisis evolved, so did the needs of those impacted.

Together with Rotary International and other non-profit organizations, I worked on initiatives ranging from delivering medical supplies and food to supporting education and mental health services for refugees and internally displaced persons.

Some of the projects and media highlights:

  • Blog Feature: Ukrainian describes leaving Kyiv, using Rotary network to help others
  • Interview: Impact in Action - Caitriona Balfe & Iryna Bushmina - Spaces For Ukraine
  • German Newspaper Story: Unternehmerin aus Kiew in Berlin:Zwischen Krieg und Weihnachtszauber
  • Article: Rotary's $15M Contribution and Work for Ukraine
  • Humancreed: Connects sponsors with talented and vulnerable children in Ukraine to provide them with opportunities for advanced education and more

3 Years and Counting..

Even though the war is still going on, I have to rebuild my life and adjust to the new reality. This brand and Jewelry Case came directly from a need caused by the war. To continue supporting the war, I will be donating 50% of the profits sold through this page to projects supporting Ukraine.

Thank you for your support of me and my country.