Performance marks third anniversary of Ukraine war

The Dorset Ukrainian community have partnered with a local charity to mark the third anniversary of the war in their home country.

Founder Anastasia Pikalova has been working with DEED, a global education and learning centre in Dorset, to create a special bilingual performance at the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Poole.

The Sisterhood of Stories shares the real-life stories of Ukrainian women who have endured the hardships of war and displacement.

Ms Pikalova said it was important the "very strong, emotional and moving" stories were shared in both languages.

Ms Pikalova has lived in the UK for 12 years, but still has family in Ukraine, and said "not knowing what will be three years on is the worst situation to be in".

"Of course Ukrainian people here feel safe, they can continue to live and raise their children but unfortunately our brothers, husbands they continue to die at this terrible war," she said.

She said when the war started and people were beginning to come over the group of volunteers helped with information, host families, and language schools.

The aim of the event, to be held later, is to raise awareness of the conflict, mark Ukrainians' resilience and show solidarity with those impacted by war.

DEED is a local charity that supports education as encourages teachers, pupils and community members to develop their understanding of global issues and cultural diversity.

Louise Bosten-Mammor, from DEED, said she met Anastasia and the community group a few years ago.

She said: "Once I found out that they were singers, dancers, and they played instruments and they were all so talented these women.

"We thought the best way for them to tell their story was through this multimedia performance."

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