A warm and inspiring celebration of the 25th anniversary of Branch 124 of the Ukrainian National Women’s League of America took place in St. Petersburg, Florida, on October 12. The event, titled “Embroidered Stories of Women’s Power,” was held at the Epiphany Hall of the Ukrainian Catholic Church. The event was not only a branch celebration, but also part of UNWLA’s 100th anniversary celebration.
This was reported by UNWLA – 124 Branch – St. Pete, FL.
The celebration brought together the Ukrainian community of Tampa Bay, representatives of other UNWLA branches, clergy, guests from different cities, and those who have worked for decades to preserve Ukrainian identity in the diaspora.
President of Branch 124 Iryna Karavan expressed deep gratitude to each member, emphasizing that a quarter of a century of activity is not only history, but also a vivid testimony of devotion, solidarity and love for Ukraine.
“Words are not enough to express our gratitude to everyone who shared our holiday with us. 25 years is the entire history of our 124th branch of the Union of Ukrainian Women of America in St. Petersburg, Florida… May the next 25 years be years of the flourishing of our organization and a worthy representation of Ukrainians here in the diaspora!”, says Iryna Karavan.
UNWLA Vice President Oksana Lodziuk Kryvulych addressed the audience, thanking them for their devotion to the community and support for the organization’s mission. Among the honored guests were also UNWLA Culture Director Oksana Pyasetskyi, East Coast President Natalia Santarsiero, representatives of the Miami, Naples, and North Port branches, as well as previous heads of Branch 124 Olya Cherkas and Irene Badyak.
The celebration was accompanied by a prayer and blessing from Father Bohdan Barytskyi, sincere words of gratitude from Monsignor John Stevenskyi, performances by children and creative groups, Ukrainian music, delicious home-cooked food, and an atmosphere of deep unity.
The guests paid special attention to the charitable initiative in support of the NGO “Zemlyachki,” which cares for female military personnel. During the event, funds were raised to support this organization.
The festive hall was decorated with original decorations, program design, and flyers, and the event culminated in a video about the history of the branch, created by the participants themselves.
Thanks were extended to many this evening: previous department heads Olga Cherkas and Iryna Badyak; kitchen volunteers Solomiya Kendzor and Yulia Tkachenko; photographer Tetyana Gavrylyuk; designer Snizhana Korobchenko; performer Natalia Kelba; and department vice president Lena Slivka, among others.
Department 124 continues its mission to support Ukraine, cherish traditions, and create a home for Ukrainians in the diaspora.
Photo: UNWLA
Author: Inna Mikhno