Local Volunteer Fiona McNabb Raises Awareness About Ukraine’s Plight

Local Volunteer Fiona McNabb Brings Attention to Ukraine's Struggle

In a heartfelt mission to aid the ongoing war effort against the Russian invasion of Ukraine, local volunteer Fiona McNabb has returned to Aotearoa with a powerful message: "Don’t forget us." Having recently spent three and a half weeks in Lviv, a city in western Ukraine less affected by the intense fighting, Fiona engaged in various volunteer activities where she worked closely with local and international teams. Her experiences, which include assisting in a volunteer kitchen and an animal sanctuary, molded her perspective on resilience amid adversity.

Sharing a Story Through Art

Fiona is currently holding a photography exhibition at the Raglan Old School Arts Centre from July 15 to 20. Her mission goes beyond merely raising money; it involves fostering awareness about the plight of Ukrainians who have been deeply affected by the conflict. "I took photos every day and wrote a blog. It was just my daily impressions for family and friends," she noted, emphasizing the importance of personal narratives in understanding the human impact of the war.

The Power of Community Action

Every photo in her exhibition tells a tale of resilience, struggle, and support from ordinary people, driving home the message that even those far from the conflict can contribute meaningfully. Her fundraising efforts aim to support two organizations directly involved in helping civilians: the Lviv Volunteer Kitchen and PTAHA, both dependent on public donations and a volunteer workforce. Collectively, these organizations have been a lifeline for hundreds of thousands of displaced citizens.

Understanding the Risks of Volunteering

Fiona also discussed the realities of volunteering in Ukraine, her perspective shaped by interactions with Ukrainians, many of whom are mourning losses from the conflict. She adopted new technologies, such as alert apps for personal safety, which underline the continuous risks involved in her work. While expressing gratitude for the opportunity to assist, she acknowledges that for many, daily coping mechanisms have become essential for survival amid uncertainty.

Your Role in Raising Awareness

Fiona's work is a wake-up call for communities outside of Ukraine to engage and support those impacted by the ongoing war. As she boldly states, "Raise awareness. Just make sure that people don’t forget us." Moments like this serve as crucial reminders that today's challenges demand collective action and global solidarity. Consider exploring ways to help, such as attending local events or donating to causes that resonate with you. Every effort counts in making a difference in someone's life.