33 Ukrainian teenagers met to prepare for travel to London this November as part of the FLEX UK-Ukraine program — an initiative of the British charity UKUATogether in partnership with the CF “Vesna!”.
The meeting marked an important stage in preparation for the upcoming two-week leadership program in the United Kingdom. It began with an informal pizza gathering and continued with an inspiring tour of the Oleksandr Dovzhenko National Film Studio, organized by the Vesna Foundation team.
The participants came from various districts of the Kyiv region — Obukhiv, Bila Tserkva, Vyshhorod, Bucha, Fastiv, Brovary, Boryspil — as well as displaced children from Donetsk and Rubizhne. A participant from Cherkasy region also joined the group.
“The FLEX program is unique because it allows Ukrainian teenagers to travel abroad during wartime, gain new experiences, and return home inspired. More than half of the participants are children of servicemen and heroes. Our goal is to support them and help them find their path,” said Svitlana Lohvyn, Board Member of UKUATogether and Head of Ukraine Relations.
During the meeting, the teenagers shared their expectations, got to know each other, and discussed organizational details.
“Such gatherings help the children adapt before the trip — find friends, reduce anxiety, and feel supported. For many, this will be their first journey abroad,” added Svitlana Lohvyn.
The tour of the Dovzhenko National Centre was led by guide and blogger Tetiana Lytvyn, who shared the history of the film studio and showcased an exhibition dedicated to the legendary film Shadows of Forgotten Ancestors.
“The children were fascinated to see how films were made decades ago — the old cameras, film reels, and costumes. It opened a completely new world for them,” shared Vitaliya Havrylenko, Head of the Children and Family Services Department who accompanied the group.
“Every child deserves a chance to realize their potential — especially now, when Ukraine needs strong, educated, and inspired young people ready to rebuild the country after victory,” emphasized Oleksandra Khaus, Director of the “Vesna!” Charitable Foundation.
The FLEX UK-Ukraine program is implemented with the support of the Kyiv Regional Military Administration. This year, 40 Ukrainian teenagers will travel to London — marking the program’s third consecutive trip.
The project’s transport partner is Wizz Air, and among the British partners are Notting Hill & Ealing School, Beyond London, Google London, CFC, and the House of Parliament.
“Our participants will have the opportunity to meet Members of Parliament, government officials, and representatives of leading corporations. This program proves that if you have a dream — you can make it come true,” added Svitlana Lohvyn.
