It’s a far cry from the land she loves in Allora, north of Stanthorpe, but September’s springtime will herald a new outlook for avid gardener, animal-lover and foodie, Krista Bjorn when she heads to Ukraine on a mission of a unique kind.
Set to volunteer as an educator and collaborator in humanitarian initiatives in Kazanka, a village a few hours northeast of Odesa, our former journalist will be there for at least six months.
“I'll be partnering with wonderful Swedish and Ukrainian friends, to assemble stoves for Ukrainian families to ensure they have heating and cooking capabilities through winter,” Krista told The Town & Country Journal.
Their plans are also to deliver food, winter gear, medical supplies, and other items to those who need them, and Krista will also focus on “conversational English classes” with students and teachers in Kazanka to “support their educational goals and expand their career opportunities”.
So where did the idea originate? Krista reflects on the decision through the lens of “caring about Ukraine” for as long she can remember, “and especially since Russia invaded in 2022”.
“For the past two years I've worked with really beautiful people, from around the world, raising funds for Ukraine to provide food, medical supplies, and other supplies for Ukrainian frontline communities and soldiers,” she continued. “Through that work, I met my Swedish friend, Karl Ekelund Pedersen, who quickly became a beloved brother to me. He has made 32 humanitarian trips to Ukraine since 2022, and has the biggest heart for Ukraine, his partner Nadiia, and anyone lucky enough to call him friend.
“Through Karl, I met two more lovely Swedes, Martin Johansson and Henrik Berntsson, who do incredible work in Ukraine sourcing and delivering vital supplies. When they proposed a six-month project and invited me to join, my whole being said, ‘Yes!’”
Leaving behind the farm in Allora for the short term and the memories of her beloved husband, and a brother who died around the same time, Krista said her “dark night of the soul” has lead to healing.
“As I've healed and rebuilt myself, the one constant that never failed to light me up was supporting Ukraine,” Krista said. “I began teaching online English sessions for Ukrainian students and have loved that so much. This opportunity to teach English and work with Ukrainians in person is the perfect transition for both my skills and the values I hold dear.”
Krista said that while Ukrainian students start learning English in Grade One, “the opportunity to converse with a native English speaker is rare”.
“I'm excited to support them in increasing their English speaking, reading, and comprehension skills to give them the best possible opportunities as they make their way through the world,” she said.
“I'm also excited to deliver vital supplies I've been purchasing and receiving from big-hearted Australians who also care for Ukraine. Together we're collecting laptops, smartphones, power banks, school supplies, and winter clothing which I will deliver to Ukrainian soldiers and civilians, as well as funds, which I will use to purchase food, medical supplies, and winter gear for those who need them.”
An overall objective, as a writer, photographer, artist, and cook, is that Krista will use her skills “to support Ukrainians as they continue to fight for freedom and the security of their families, communities, and country”.
Southern Downers can help by visiting www.ramblingtart.com/ukraine/ for details regarding financial contributions and to see lists of specific supplies to be collected.
