Children's Ukrainian club in Bulgaria

Since the beginning of the war in Ukraine, nearly 7 million people have been forced to flee their homeland in search of asylum. Nearly 70,000 find their new home here - in Bulgaria, where they begin their "second life".

Especially for children, parting with home, with friends, and sometimes with family, leaves deep wounds. Coming here, they face language barriers, cultural differences, feelings of insecurity, fear and anxiety.

However, one woman sets out to make adaptation easier for children who have lost their home.

Anastasia's story with Bulgaria begins not with war, but with love. She married a Bulgarian and today they have a wonderful 7-year-old girl. Anastasia herself has experienced the difficulties of being a foreigner in an unknown country.

"It was very difficult for me when I first came here. I am a patriot and I love my country. It turned out that people here know almost nothing about Ukraine, they do not distinguish with Russia."

Living in Bulgaria, it was very important for Anastasia that her daughter could speak Ukrainian and know her culture and traditions. So came up with the idea to create a club where children can feel at home.

Anastasia's idea of a children's Ukrainian club is supported by other mothers who, like her, wanted to give their children a piece of their homeland. Together, they wanted to create a place where they and their children could find comfort and joy in difficult times, away from home.

With the help of a group of journalists who recognize themselves in the cause, Anastasia manages to get a free room in Sofia, where she manages to realize her dream.

"I have always dreamed of creating not just a children's club, but a place where every Ukrainian child can speak their native language and feel at home. After the war, the club gained particular popularity. For children and parents who were forced to leave home, this club has become a refuge, a place where children can unleash their potential, make new friends and re-experience Ukrainian culture. And for us - the parents, the place and the people in it have become a home where everyone is valuable and understood. My dream has become a reality," says Anastasia.

Today the club is visited by 20 children and their mothers who meet several times a month and participate in a variety of activities. From yoga and dancing to embroidery and clay work, to film screenings and excursions, here every child finds a space in which they can unleash their talents.

"I have great pleasure in the talented Ukrainian children who come to us. They know how to play the piano, take singing lessons, engage in sports. It inspires me to keep moving forward," says Anastasia.