Dunfermline Ukrainian craft fair to support war veterans

Intertwined is now a registered Scottish Charity and has a steadfast mission to support Ukrainian soldiers with mental health therapy.

To raise money for the cause, founder Svitlana Iniakoviene has organised a series of events, including her latest, the first Ukrainian Craft Fair planned for August 17, 11am-5pm.

The fair will feature beautiful Ukrainian embroidery (Image: Supplied) Svitlana, originally from Donetsk in Ukraine’s east said: “I’ve been organising events since the full-scale war.

“Among the products, there will be Ukrainian embroidered clothes, contemporary jewellery, leather handmade bags, French macaroons, wooden creations natural wellness products and items from Scottish artists.

“The fair will also feature art and music of Ukrainian refugees, including a young saxophone player who is studying at the Royal Conservatoire of Scotland.

“I’m sure there will be something special for everyone.”

READ MORE: Dunfermline project to support Ukrainian soldiers with PTSD

A Ukrainian leather bag maker’s products will also be featured (Image: Supplied) While the fair will be a chance to ‘intertwine’ Scottish and Ukrainian culture, the real purpose is to raise enough money for practical change.

Svitlana continued: “There are six soldiers in Kyiv awaiting treatment. I’m hoping this fair and our future fairs can raise enough money to help them.”

The event will be attended by Andrii Madzianovskyi, the consul of Ukraine in Scotland.

The Firestation Creative has been a strong supporter and has facilitated many events (Image: Hannah Shedden) Other attendees include Jim Leishman who has been a steadfast supporter of Svitlana’s campaign and will make a speech on the day, as well as Graeme Downie MP and Shirley Anne Somerville MSP.

Svitlana hopes this event will be start of an even greater community between Fifers and Ukrainians.

She added: “I want to launch a series of craft fairs and then have them regularly, and I hope the people of Fife will come every time.

“They may come for the craft, but I hope they stay for the cause.

“It’s not just charity, it’s a movement.”