The Initial Success of Language Courses at the Ukraine Centre: A Promising Re-Launch The Ukraine Centre recently re-launched its language courses to provide essential language skills for individuals seeking community integration. Courses are now offered at four locations: Avenue de Rumine 26, Avenue de l’Eglantine 6, Avenue de l’Eglise Anglaise 1 in Lausanne, and Avenue de la Prairie 40 in Vevey. After thorough preparation, initial results show a positive start, with 70 of 89 registered participants attending—an encouraging beginning. Enrollment and AttendanceThe turnout so far is impressive, considering that out of the 89 people who signed up, 70 individuals attended the first round of classes. This translates into a significant 79% attendance rate, which is a strong indicator of the participants’ motivation and the relevance of these language courses. It demonstrates that people are eager to learn and enhance their language skills, which will be vital for their integration and future opportunities. The distribution of the attendees is equally noteworthy. Of the 70 who came, 40 participants have chosen to study French, while the remaining 30 are attending classes for another language. This division indicates a high demand for French, likely due to the region’s linguistic landscape, while the interest in other languages shows the center’s broad approach to catering to diverse needs.   A Path Toward IntegrationFor many individuals at the Ukraine Centre, learning the local language is not only a matter of communication but a gateway to improved social and economic integration. The first wave of students, consisting of a balanced mix of different backgrounds, brings a diverse set of experiences and learning paces. By offering structured language programs across four locations, the centre aims to equip participants with the linguistic tools they need to navigate daily life, access job opportunities, and engage with the local community. The courses have been tailored to accommodate various levels of proficiency. Whether it’s beginners who are just starting their journey in a new language or those with some foundational knowledge looking to improve, the Ukraine Centre has made sure that every participant has a clear learning path. In particular, the focus on French is essential for those who need to understand and use the language in day-to-day interactions, whether for work, education, or personal matters. The French Courses: A Closer LookWith 40 participants opting for French, it’s clear that there is a significant need to acquire this essential language. As the primary language spoken in the region, fluency in French opens many doors, from basic communication to more complex interactions in professional settings. The French courses at the Ukraine Centre are designed to provide a comprehensive foundation, with a focus on practical language use. The curriculum covers key language skills, including speaking, listening, reading, and writing, which are vital for full immersion in French-speaking environments. In addition, cultural understanding is embedded in the lessons, giving participants not just language skills, but also insights into local customs, social norms, and traditions. This holistic approach ensures that students don’t just learn the language, but also how to use it effectively in various contexts. Other Languages: Expanding HorizonsWhile French is the dominant choice, the 30 participants studying another language are also making strides in their education. The Ukraine Centre’s dedication to offering diverse language options highlights its commitment to serving a wide range of individuals. Whether these participants are learning for personal or professional reasons, the opportunity to study a language in a structured, supportive environment is invaluable. By offering different language options at multiple locations, the Ukraine Centre demonstrates its flexibility and responsiveness to the varied needs of its participants. This inclusivity not only benefits the individuals enrolled but also contributes to the broader goal of creating a multilingual and culturally rich community. Early Feedback and Future ProspectsInitial feedback from participants has been overwhelmingly positive. Many have expressed gratitude for the opportunity to learn in a supportive environment, and the majority are eager to continue with their courses. Instructors have also reported a high level of engagement and participation from the students, which is a positive sign for the program’s long-term success. Looking ahead, the Ukraine Centre plans to build on this early success by expanding the number of language courses offered and increasing capacity for more students. There are also discussions about introducing more advanced levels for those who complete the beginner courses and wish to continue their education. This will ensure that participants have a clear progression pathway and can continue to build on their language skills. ConclusionThe language courses at the Ukraine Centre have had an impressive start, with 70 out of 89 registered participants attending the first sessions. The strong attendance rate and the interest in both French and other languages reflect the program’s immediate relevance and importance to the participants. As the courses progress across three locations in Lausanne and Vevey, it is expected that even more students will join, and those already enrolled will continue to develop their language skills, furthering their integration and prospects in the local community.

On the occasion of the joint celebrations for Independence Day on August 24 in Crissier, our organization was thrilled to contribute 33 traditional costumes to the littles from Mariupol that have made Bouveret their new homes! Ukraine Centre Offering Traditional Costumes To The Little Ones On Indépendance Day On the occasion of the joint celebrations for Independence Day, Ukraine Centre was proud to contribute 33 traditional costumes to the children from Mariupol, who have found their new home in Bouveret. These vibrant costumes represent not just the rich cultural heritage of their homeland, but also the resilience and spirit of these young souls who have been through so much. The decision to donate these costumes stemmed from our commitment to supporting the little ones from Mariupol, who have been displaced from their orphanage. We recognize the importance of maintaining cultural identity, particularly in times of hardship and displacement. By providing these traditional costumes, we hope to offer the children a sense of belonging and pride in their heritage, even as they integrate into a new community. The Independence Day celebrations in Crissier provided the perfect opportunity to showcase these costumes. It was a joyous occasion filled with music, dance, and shared cultural expressions. The sight of the children donning their traditional attire was truly heartwarming. It not only added to the beauty of the event but also served as a reminder of the importance of cultural preservation and solidarity in times of crisis. Our organization is dedicated to fostering a sense of community and belonging, and this contribution is just one of the many ways we aim to uplift and support these little ones and their amazing team! Зображення WhatsApp, дата_ 2024-09-04 о 11.04.00_da687143 Зображення WhatsApp, дата_ 2024-09-04 о 11.04.00_d5424b89 Зображення WhatsApp, дата_ 2024-09-04 о 11.04.00_596e3217 Зображення WhatsApp, дата_ 2024-09-04 о 11.04.01_c1d7bfc4

Sailing Camp “Sous les voiles des rêves”: A Summer of Unforgettable Experiences This summer, the Ukraine Centre, in collaboration with Y-Voile, organized a unique and inspiring sailing camp titled “Sous les voiles des rêves.” The camp brought together 25 children aged 9 to 16 from our Centre and 30 teenagers from Mariupol, who have found a new home at the Ailes des rêves orphanage in Le Bouveret. Over the course of the summer, these young participants embarked on an exciting journey of discovery, learning the art of sailing while forming new friendships and building lasting memories. The camp was not just about learning a new skill; it was about fostering teamwork, instilling confidence, and helping these children and teenagers gain a sense of accomplishment and self-assurance in their abilities. Throughout the camp, the participants were guided by experienced instructors from Y-Voile, who taught them the basics of sailing in a safe and supportive environment. The children and teenagers learned how to navigate the waters, control the sails, and work together as a cohesive team to steer their boats through various challenges. For many of these young sailors, this experience was more than just a summer activity. It was a chance to escape the difficulties of their past and embrace a future full of possibilities. The camp provided them with a sense of freedom, as they felt the wind in their hair and the thrill of guiding their boats across the water. It also offered them a platform to build new friendships and create positive memories that will stay with them for years to come. The sailing camp “Sous les voiles des rêves” was more than just a series of lessons on the water. It was a transformative experience that empowered these young individuals, helping them discover their inner strength and potential. By the end of the camp, they had not only learned to sail but had also gained a newfound confidence in themselves and their abilities. The Ukraine Centre and Y-Voile are proud of the success of this camp and the impact it has had on the lives of the participants. We are committed to continuing our efforts to provide meaningful experiences that inspire and empower the youth in our community. This summer’s sailing camp was just the beginning of many more adventures to come, as we continue to help these children and teenagers navigate their own courses toward bright and hopeful futures.

A new President and two new board members have strengthened the organising teams at the Ukraine Centre. Louis Voiron is a member of Our Lady of Faith and a familiar face to volunteers and Ukrainians alike at the Centre. He has been chosen as President to replace the former Scots Kirk Minister, Gillean MacLean, who retired last year. Ukrainian volunteer, Anna Khtema, and Scots Kirk member and Centre volunteer, Olivier Martin, have been appointed to the board. In his earlier career, Louis served as a special advisor in the French Government. He also spent a lot of time abroad working for U.S. organisations in Washington, France, the UK and across Africa and the Middle East. He has now returned to Switzerland where his family has their roots. “I feel very strongly that the Centre is about helping our Ukrainian community feel at home,’ he said. ‘We want to help them build bridges for their smooth integration in Switzerland. In my view the language and administrative support we offer are as important as the safe space we provide where they can share their experiences and break the feeling of isolation newcomers often feel.’ Centre Secretary Jeremy McTeague said: “Louis has an an exemplary knowledge of international affairs particularly in regard to Ukraine. He is an experienced volunteer at the Centre. I am delighted that he has agreed to be President.” Anna Khtema and Olivier Martin join the seven-strong board, the majority of whom are from the three churches. Anna trained as a geologist in Ukraine and arrived in Switzerland following the Russian invasion. She helps organise activities at the Centre and is pivotal in communication between the Ukrainian and non-Ukrainian speaking members and volunteers.  Olivier Martin is currently a University Professor of Physics at EPFL where he himself studied. A Lausannois by birth, he returned to the city after several years working in Zurich. He is a member of the board of the Scots Kirk, one of our founding congregations.  

More than 30 Ukrainian orphans, now living in the canton de Vaud, have marked the second anniversary of their flight from their war-torn country. Guests, including volunteers from the Ukraine Centre, were invited to join them for an open day at their new home near La Sarraz.  They were plucked to safety after their orphanages were destroyed during the Russian invasion in February 2022. Many are from Mariupol, the city that was subjected to a three-month siege by Russian forces. Despite driving rain, the day was full of smiles and joy. Huge tents prevented the weather spoiling the fun on Saturday, June 22nd at the Pompaples orphanage. Centre volunteers Kathy Overlack and Sylvia Rubli from our Personal Support Team, as well as Centre President Louis Voiron, Ludmila Bahmut and Anna Khtema joined the fun and brought along some goodies for the children. Mariupol, was Ukraine’s tenth biggest city until it was destroyed. « It’s hard to imagine what these children have been through, but it was wonderful to see them enjoying a bit of normalcy after so much trauma in their lives, » said Kathy Overlack. The children all attend local schools but receive extra support from Ukrainian teachers. The project is a joint endeavour by the Swiss and Ukrainian Governments. The children already regularly attend craft activities on Sundays at the Ukraine Centre in the Scots Kirk, Lausanne. Many are organised by Centre volunteer, Nadiia Halushko, her husband Vadim, and Ludmila Bahmut. Louis Voiron said : « We hope we can continue to help these children to the best of our abilities. Making a small difference to their lives is a strong ‘raison d’être’ for the Centre. » Above: Louis Voiron and Anna Khtema with H.E. Ambassador Iryna Venediktova

Ukraine Centre Co-Organizing National Day Célèbrations on August 24 Ukraine Centre Co-Organizing National Day Celebrations on August 24 We are excited to announce that the Ukraine Centre will be co-organizing the National Day celebrations on August 24! This special event, held in collaboration with local partners, will celebrate Ukraine’s rich cultural heritage and the resilience of its people. The festivities will include a vibrant mix of cultural performances, traditional music and dance, and authentic Ukrainian cuisine. The event aims to bring together the Ukrainian community in Switzerland and all friends of Ukraine for a day of joy, unity, and cultural exchange. Don’t miss this opportunity to celebrate and connect with fellow community members while enjoying a taste of Ukraine’s unique traditions. The National Day celebrations on August 24 mark an important occasion for the Ukrainian community and its supporters. By co-organizing this event, the Ukraine Centre reaffirms its commitment to preserving and promoting Ukrainian culture and providing a platform for meaningful cultural engagement. The celebrations will take place in Lausanne, and we invite everyone to join us in honoring Ukraine’s history and heritage. Stay tuned for more details and a full schedule of events. We look forward to seeing you there and celebrating this significant day together.

Ukraine Centre Reopening on August 15 We are thrilled to announce that the Ukraine Centre will be reopening its doors on August 15! After months of careful planning and preparations, we are ready to welcome our community back with enhanced facilities and new programs designed to support Ukrainian refugees. Our team has worked tirelessly to create a safe, inclusive, and welcoming environment where individuals can access essential services, participate in cultural activities, and connect with fellow community members. Join us on this special day as we celebrate our reopening with a series of events, including informational sessions, cultural performances, and opportunities to meet our dedicated staff and volunteers. The reopening of the Ukraine Centre marks a significant milestone in our mission to provide comprehensive support to Ukrainian refugees in Switzerland. Located in the heart of the city, our centre will offer a wide range of services, including legal assistance, language courses, and mental health support. We are committed to helping our community members navigate their new lives and thrive in their new environment. Stay tuned for more updates and detailed schedules of our reopening events. We look forward to seeing you on August 15 and continuing our journey together towards a brighter future.