Groundbreaking Ukrainian Rotary Impact Club of Rutland to host two events in Oakham

A landmark group set up by Ukrainians to help children and people in their war-torn country has organised two events to raise awareness.

The Ukrainian Rotary Impact Club of Rutland became the first Ukrainian Rotary club in the UK when it was launched in November.

The club has already dispatched two loads of medical equipment to Ukraine and is getting ready to send more mobility equipment soon as part of its inaugural campaign.

It has also organised two upcoming events in Oakham - a film screening and a fundraising concert by an award-winning Ukrainian pianist and composer.

“These events aim to raise awareness and express our deep gratitude for the overwhelming support the UK has provided to Ukraine,” said Nadia Tikhonova, a founder member of the group.

Rutland County Museum will host a screening of FORT Kharkiv, a film produced by Nataliia Yakovleva who moved to Stamford after the outbreak of war before returning home to Gostomel.

The documentary tells the remarkable story of Kharkiv’s defenders - military and civilian - who held their ground during the early days of Russia's full-scale invasion.

It highlights the courage, patriotism, and resilience that turned Kharkiv into a symbol of unbreakable resistance, the screening takes place on Tuesday, February 25 at 6pm.

Among the guests will be the Lord-Lieutenant of Rutland, Dr Sarah Furness, Rutland County Council chief executive Mark Andrews, and the High Sheriff of Rutland, Richard Chesterfield.

And on Saturday, March 22, the club are hosting a fundraising concert in All Saints Church from 7pm featuring acclaimed pianist Yaroslav Oliinyk.

Back to the Future will feature Yaroslav’s neo-classical compositions.

All proceeds from the evening will support local community projects in Rutland and Oakham.