Since the war started in Ukraine there have been many conversations with people about how down they feel, how they wonder what more they can do to help now they have donated some money to various charities and organisations, and only getting to see current updates from the view of the news. The problem is lots of people have actually started to switch off media related to the war with Russia because it is too overwhelming in a time when we have been through a pandemic and anxiety was already high in the UK. That has meant that all the donations of food and supplies has drastically dropped now as people have come to terms with the fact that this war isn’t going away quickly and they try to carry on in their lives the best they can.
Chatting to Karolina who is polish and lives locally she said ” I found a lot of friends and people I spoke to felt down about the war but when I went to my Zumba class every week I found that I was coming out smiling and feeling uplifted. My father works with Ukrainian people and I have lots of friends in Poland that have hosted families and people fleeing their country so I felt a real pull towards doing something more. Dancing makes you feel more energetic, I have loved the feeling when I come out of my weekly class and noticed others in my class felt the same. The energy in the room was lighter and happier than when we started the class and that’s when I thought a dance event would be something that would be fun but also raise awareness for the people of Ukraine who have had to leave their country and really suffered since the end of February when the war began.”
Setting up this event for Saturday, Karolina said she is looking forward to the afternoon activities. It means anyone can drop down to Outside In, pay £5.00 cash on the door, and join in the fun! All this is in support of the Hampshire Ukranian Community; an organisation working alongside the Ukrainian Embassy to orgainse donations of essential provisions to be sent to Ukraine and supporting those in fleeing the conflict.
Starting at 12.00pm, there will be an afternoon of fun and dancing, complete with amazing dance instructors to help you sort out those kick-ass moves! Everyone is welcome including kids and you can even bring your granny!
Being held at Outside In, they have generously donated their space for the afternoon for the fundraiser. Instructors Kasia, Hazel, and Razvan will be there to show us the best dance moves and create a buzzing atmosphere!
Karolina said, “Our aim is to have some fun, learn a few new moves, and make new friends while raising the necessary funds and showing community spirit to our Ukrainian neighbours.”
There is going to be a raffle and since Karolina shared about the fundraiser she has been inundated with support and donations for the raffle. There are some fantastic prizes to be had so make sure you pop in and help raise some funds for those that need this the most.
Come along on Saturday and show your support while smiling and dancing at the same time.
Date 30th April 2022
Start Time 12.00pm
Location – Outside In 56 Middle Street, Southsea
Entry Ticket is £5.00 (cash) which is available on the door
