UkiFest 2022 | What a Success!

The UkiFest theme was a celebration of sovereignty and solidarity, expressed through sharing Ukraine’s culture, history and hospitality. Despite a wet start, the crowd and atmosphere built up during the afternoon and evening into a celebration that did just that.

At the peak there were over 2,000 people in Tumbalong Park at Darling Harbour and during the day an estimated 6,000 to 8,000 people circulated through. The performances were all outstanding, the activities spanned the generations and the food stalls and bar did not disappoint.

Dignitaries from over a dozen countries joined local politicians (The Hon. Mark Coure MP and Ms Lynda Voltz MP) and government officials to show support.

We’d like to thank our sponsors Multicultural NSW, McCarrol’s Automotive Group, Ukrainian Youth Association (CYM) Sydney, STARTTS, Woolworths,  Cabramatta -Fairfield Hromada, Karpaty Foundation, Plast , Ukrainian Women’s Association, East Coast Capital Management and Graphite Projects.

Particularly heart-warming were the reactions of some newly arrived Ukrainians who wept during some performances and couldn’t believe they were celebrating in the centre of Sydney yet felt like they were home in Ukraine. They truly felt the connection to their new home of Australia and were grateful to be in a country that cares and shares the same values as their husbands and fathers are fighting for.

This couldn’t have happened without an incredible organising committee. The UCNSW would like to acknowledge the outstanding achievements of the UkiFest organising committee, guided by the artistic vision of Justin Senko. The amount of work that involves organising such an event cannot be overstated, and Justin and the committee deserve our thanks and praise. Well done to the Organising Committee of:

Justin Senko

Dan Wolody

Nathan Mychno

Olexa Matiouk

Oleg Sapishchuk

Andrew Matiouk

Briana Berehova

Mark Zarifeh

Markian Stefanyshyn

Teresa Huzij

Leshia Bubniuk (Master of Ceremonies)

Andrew Mencinsky (Sponsorships)

Onwards to UkiFest 2023!

Слава Україні! Героям Слава!

#StandWithUkraine

#ukifest2022