Uki Life Abroad: Recent Episodes
UkiLifeAbroad
The podcast for all things Ukrainian, discussing Ukraine’s history, culture and traditions as well as what’s happening in the diaspora. Hosted by Andrei and co-hosts: Brianna, Justin, Nathan and Olexa.
This week we are joined by Andriy Boychuk, founder of Flowium. We discuss about his transition from life in Ukraine to life in the US as a young adult and his career as an entrepreneur.
In this week's episode, we explore the historical importance of the Dnipro River that divides Ukraine down the middle and how it has been used in the current Russo-Ukraine War to create a humanitarian crisis.
In recent months, both the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church and Orthodox Church of Ukraine have announced that they are changing their liturgical calendars. This week we explore the reasoning for this as well as why a different church calendar existed in Ukraine.
As the war stretches past the one year mark and Ukraine prepares for its upcoming spring counteroffensive, we look back at how global public opinion has changed towards Ukraine in the last year.
This week, Europe and lovers of music will focus on the city of Liverpool where the 2023 Eurovision Song Contest will take place. A joint venture between Ukraine and the UK, the contest will showcase the continents love of music and solidarity as both Russia and Belarus continue to be banned for their invasion of Ukraine.
After a hiatus from recording, we are back. In this week's episode we explore the impact of the diaspora on the war, summarise the events so far, and discuss the implication of Russia's mobilisation.
This week we explore the unique rise of Volodymyr Zelenskyy, the current wartime President of Ukraine.
As Russia's invasion of Ukraine continues, we investigate how Russia is committing various war crimes in Ukraine.
As Ukrainians around the world reel in shock from the unprovoked Russian invasion of Ukraine, we take some time to collect our thoughts and cover some of the unique stories from Ukraine and from the diaspora around the world.
Olympic fever has hit the world again, with the commencement of the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympic games in which Ukraine will be sending a team to compete. This week we spotlight some of the team, the events and some of the political tension that looms in the background.
The centuries old waters of the Black Sea hold many secrets and mysteries, many of which have been lost to time; this week we take a look at 6 interesting facts about the Black Sea that you may not have heard before.
This week we are joined by Stefan Romaniw OAM, Vice-President of the Ukrainian World Congress to discuss the deteriorating situation on the Ukrainian border and what each of as Diaspora Ukrainians can do to support Ukraine. #StandWithUkraine #**StopPutinNOW
SayYEStoUkraine**
This week we discuss the best Christmas tree in Ukraine and how it compares to other famous international Christmas trees. We also discuss the recent protests in Kazakhstan and it's global implications
This week we discuss the current state of diplomatic relations between Belarus and Ukraine. We explore how tensions between the two neighbour nations place them against each other while both being geographically sandwiched between Russia and the EU.
In 2003 the success of the Eurovision song contest lead to the creation of Junior Eurovision; a contest for children aged 9 -14. With Ukraine recently announcing Olena Ysenko as the countries 2021 participant, we take a look at her prospects for this year, as well as a look back at the Junior Eurovison contest over the years.
This week we discuss the controversial firing of the editorial staff of the Kyiv Post newspaper. Join us as we explore what this means for the Ukrainian diaspora around the world and the future of independent journalism/English language news services in Ukraine.
President Zelenskyy has been named alongside 37 other Ukrainians in the recent 'Pandora Papers' leak, which has highlighted individuals with significant offshore holdings of wealth. This week we explore the extent of Ukrainian involvement in the uncovered activities and the impact this scandal will have on his presidency.
A recent UN report on the occupation of Crimea has revealed the extent to which Russia has appropriated, stolen, and damaged various Ukrainian and Crimean cultural sites. This week we discuss these atrocities at the historic site of Chersonese and the extent of the damage that various Russian organisations have caused.
The intricacies of the Ukrainian struggles during WWII can be a deep and expansive topic, however author Chrystyna Lucyk-Berger has compiled her 15 years of research into two immersive fictional retellings. This week we continue our conversation with Chrystyna about her works, her process and the real life stories behind her new releases.
The intricacies of the Ukrainian struggles during WWII can be a deep and expansive topic, however author Chrystyna Lucyk-Berger has compiled her 15 years of research into two immersive fictional retellings. This week, in Part One of a two part series, we speak with Chrysyna about her works, her process and the real life stories behind her new releases.
International cooperation forms one essential part of Ukrainian sovereignty and security; and the country's commitment to UN peacekeeping operations has helped to develop such essential international ties. This week, we explore Ukraine's historical and current role as a member of the United Nations and their contributions to global peacekeeping.
To continue our exploration of Ukrainian communities around the world, this week we look towards South America and the history of Ukrainian settlement in Venezuela, Uruguay, Paraguay, Chile, Brazil & Argentina.
This week we interview Pani Alla Sirenko, a renowned Ukrainian composer and founder of the Ukrainian Cultural Association in the United Kingdom . We take the opportunity to discuss her career & accomplishments along with her current & future plans. During the interview we feature several excerpts of her work, in the following order: Golden Penguin Opera, Pantheon, Ave Maria & Ukrainian Fantasy.
Since 1996, Ukraine has been in command of the Vernadsky Research Base; a home away from home for those Ukrainian's who have worked there as part of the countries State Targeted Scientific and Technical Program for Antarctic Research for 2011-2023. In this week episode we explore the history of this base and the current contribution that Ukraine is making to scientific research in Antarctica.
Whilst some of the world may speak of Ukraine as a young country, the struggle for Ukrainian independence has been a long and complicated journey for hundreds of years. This week we explore the history of Ukrainian statehood and discuss the idea of recognising two days of Ukrainian independence.
As we begin our celebrations for Ukraine's 30th anniversary of Independence, join us this week for 30 fascinating facts about Ukraine, .From Kyvian Rus to modern day Ukraine, we have got you covered.
After an Olympics roundup, this week we discuss the ever developing story of Vitaly Shishov, a Belarusian activist who was found hanged in a Kyiv park and the suspicious circumstances surrounding the apparent suicide. His death adds to a series of events in connection with the growing dictatorial tendencies of Belarussian president Lukashenko.
With the Tokyo 2020 Olympics now in full swing, this week's episode will look at Team Ukraine's successes thus far, which athletes to look out for this week and discuss some controversies affecting Ukraine during the Opening Ceremony. (Medal Tally update as at 1 August 2021)
As Ukraine celebrates 30 years of independence, we look back at the orange revolution, the first pivotal turning point of Ukraine's democratic journey in the 21 century.
With the Olympics fast approaching, this week we deep dive into Ukraine's history at the Olympic Games, discuss Lviv's bids for the Winter Olympics and detail which sports to watch to support Ukrainian athletes at Tokyo 2020.
This week we take a virtual trip to Chernobyl, the site of the world's worst nuclear disaster and discuss the tourist appeal of the site and the exclusion zone. With President Zelennkyy's plan to vitalise the area into a tourist destination, we explore what draws visitors to the area and why its remains an iconic site to this day.
In a recent interview, President Zelenskyy revealed the details of a failed covert operation to arrest 33 militants as their plane passed over Ukrainian airspace. The additional revelation of leaks to the Belarusian President Lukashenko caused protests in Kyiv calling the President Zelenskyy a 'traitor'. This week we discuss the details of this operation as well as the legal and political complexities surrounding aircraft travel, interceptions and extraditions.
In the continually developing story of Russian escalation, a British warship was threatened by the Russian coastguard as it passed 12km off the coast of Crimea. This week we discuss the details of the situation and the possible reason behind this latest show of aggression.
With news from Ukraine playing an essential role in awareness of the country and its events, the need for uncensored accurate journalism has existed for decades. This week we look at the past and present workings of Ukrainian news, starting with the 1970s Ukranian Herald underground news paper and the more recent changes to English Ukrainian news sources.
With covid-19 still and ever-present part of our lives, the importance of wellbeing and community ties online is as strong as ever. This week we speak with Chrestyna Kmetj the founder of the Art of Transformation project and discuss her work in maintaining ties and wellbeing within the community during this difficult time.
In the world of aviation, the name Antonov is recognised for its technical achievements; however its famous Mryia has put Ukraine in the public spotlight for decades. This week we take a look at the company, its history, its founder and the details of its famous world record holding aircraft, Mryia.
This week we have the opportunity to speak with the recent debutante group in Sydney. We discuss the process leading up to the ball, the night itself and what it meant to them.
With both Australia and Canada's census season approaching, we take a look at the results of the 2016 census in both countries. We also dive into the history of Ukrainian migration to both Canada and Australia.
Whilst the majority of the world celebrates the end of WWII in Europe on May 8th, some countries celebrate this victory on the 9th. Find out why in this episode and how Ukraine is planning a transition from one date to the other. Additionally, Russia released a preliminary list of unfriendly nations and we explore the contenders for Russia's biggest enemy.
This week we discuss the impact that Covid19 and other factors had on the quality of democracy in 2020. We also take a look into Ukraine's democracy, global and internet freedom scores.
This week we discuss DOM TV, Ukraine's Russian Language TV network aimed at people living in the occupied regions of Donbas and Crimea as well as President Zelenskyy's role in dismantling UATV.
Join us this week as we explore Ukrainian Easter Traditions, their origins and how they are practiced today.
The recent escalation in Russian military buildup has left both Ukraine and western powers concerned about Putin's intentions. This week we discuss these developments as well as Russia's forcible seizure of land in Crimea.
In our recent travels to Canberra, we took the opportunity to speak with Dr Mykola Kulinich, Ukraine's Ambassador to Australia. Join us this week for part two, where we discuss Australia-Ukraine bilateral relations and the role of the Ukrainian Community in Australia
With pilgrimage being an important part of faith around the world, the upcoming Rosh Hashanah celebration in the city of Uman has Jews around the world anxious to attend. Given last years circumstances, the Ukrainian government has made concessions regarding pilgrims to the grave of Rabbi Nachman of Breslov. In this week's episode we look at these changes and dive deeper into the history and importance of this famous pilgrimage.
In our recent travels to Canberra, we took the opportunity to speak with Dr Mykola Kulinich, Ukraine's Ambassador to Australia. Join us this week for part one where we discuss his previous appointments and his passion for diplomatic service.
Metros are an essential part of city life around the world, however the underground rail networks of Ukraine have a unique history and cultural significance. In this weeks episode we dive into the past of Ukraine's four metro networks and explore how they have changed since Ukrainian independence.
Everyone has heard of the Seven Wonders of the World, however most you may not know that Ukraine has its own seven wonders. This week we explore these seven sites that the people of Ukraine have voted as the most iconic in the country.
With Eurovision fast approaching, we take a look at Ukraine's contribution to the contest over the years and its importance in European relations.
Last week marked the 7th anniversary of Russia's annexation of Crimea. This year, President Zelenskyy aims to launch a global initiative to de-occupy the peninsula via the Crimea Platform. Will this bring Crimea back into the international spotlight?
With thousands of churches spread across Ukraine, their unique style of golden domes is instantly recognisable. But where did this originate? Find out in this weeks episode along with two important recent news events.
With a long, complex and controversial history, Ukrainians have long fought for the preservation of their national identity. This week we take a look at Ukraine and the impacts that over 1000 years of geo politics has had on it and its' people.
With democracy still maturing in Ukraine, how is the country looking to reform its parliamentary structure. In this episode, we look at Zelenkyy's proposal to shrink the membership of the Verkhovna Rada as well as the recent sanctions on pro-Russian propaganda.
With Ukrainian video gaming on the rise in 2019, how did the industry traverse 2020 and what does the future hold? This week we share our own gaming experiences and spotlight the works of various developers in Ukraine.
This week we discuss the newly expanded language laws and their effectiveness within society. We also look at some interesting changes to Netflix.
Join us for a review of the best of Uki Life Abroad content over our 2020 inaugural year and some behind the scenes bloopers.
In this weeks main event, we tackle the fight for Ukraine to gain IMF funding. President Zelenksyy's administration has pursued additional funding through his term with limited success; we discuss what could happen next. Also what do Harry Potter and Ukrainian Christmas tree's have in common?
Where do we go to find information about Ukraine? This week we highlight the efforts of Ukrainian research in the diaspora with a look at the Canadian Institute of Ukrainian Studies and their work in the creation of the Internet Encyclopedia of Ukraine. Stay tuned after for a discussion of Servant of the People's recent loss in Zelenskyy's home town.
What are Ukraine's two biggest exports? This week we dive into the influence of the national dance group Virsky as well as Ukraine's ever developing soccer league. Both have helped to spread the Ukrainian brand around the globe.
Ukraine has fallen into a constitutional crisis following a controversial decision from the countries constitutional court. This week we look at President Zelenkyy's high stakes response to this ruling, as well as the shenanigan's happening inside the Chernobyl Exclusion Zone.
Ukraine has recently joined the Artemis Accords, a US lead effort to return to the moon. We delve into Ukraine's space history and it's ambitions in the field of space exploration.
Coming back down to Earth, we explore the new streaming platform 'Takflix', which aims to deliver Ukrainian language cinema to your living room.
This week, we speak with Australian-Canadian Victor Mishalow - a world renowned Bandurist and Merited Artist of Ukraine. Join Us as we explore his truly diaspora story, growing up in Sydney, discovering a love for the Bandura, moving to Ukraine to study in Soviet times and settling in Toronto.
In this week's episode we discuss the Petrykivka painting style, its' historical origins and how the artform lives on today.
We take a look at Ukraine's goal to reclaim its national dish from its Soviet past; additionally, we compare the results of our poll against Zelenskyy's national poll.
Kyiv Post turned 25 this month, so we discuss its important role on the voice of Ukraine in the world; and we explore fast food, Crimean style.
Join us this week as we interview Stefan Bugryn, a highly-acclaimed Australian-Ukrainian Filmmaker from Melbourne. We discuss the motivation behind his award winning 'War Mothers' film series, some of the production challenges, the experience of working in Ukraine and meeting Ukrainians affected by the ongoing War.
Which outcome will benefit Ukraine, a Trump re-election or a Biden victory. This week we discuss what each candidate plans for Ukraine.
In part two of our series we explore how the Ukrainian church spread through Canada and how Ukrainians settled the Canadian Prairies.
Are you as confused by recycling and as scared of climate change as we are? Ukraine is taking steps to increase their recycling rates, taking an education based approach. Also, COVID 19 wreaks havoc on Ukraine’s poverty rates, and we look at challenges facing Ukrainian orphans across the country.
This week we explore the blatant assassination attempt on Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny and the ramifications of this on European politics. We also look at the disastrous water situation in Crimea with Russia trying to sue Ukraine over alleged responsibility for the crisis.
This week we interview Julian Knysh, an Australian-Ukrainian Filmmaker and curator of this year's Pickles, Bombs & Borsch short film programme at the 2020 Sydney Underground Film Festival. We discuss the Ukrainian short films being screened and the current creative renaissance occurring in Ukrainian cinema generally.
For more information:
Pickles, Bombs & Borsch @ the Sydney Underground Film Festival 2020
https://watch.eventive.org/suff2020/play/5f30e8de84d30b0099d35614
In this weeks episode we spotlight some little-known facts about Donbas, as well as a strange way the Separatists commemorate their 'heroes'.
When you think of Ukraine and Ireland, are potatoes and soccer the first things that come to mind? These two countries on opposite ends of Europe are more similar than you might think. Find out more on this topic, how Wikipedia is making a difference in Ukraine, and the delicacy of salo (pig fat), in this week's episode of Uki Life Abroad.
Join us as we delve into the recent protests in Belarus as well as what is happening in eastern Russia.
In the first episode of our mini-series 'Faith in the Diaspora', we explore the challenges of practicing our faith during the pandemic.
Chrystia Freeland is currently the highest ranked Canadian-Ukrainian in Canada's political establishment. We discuss the various roles that Justin Trudeau has assigned to her, and what this means for global Ukrainian politics, as well as the positive influence of Ukrainians within Canada. Also, Russia's newly opened armed forces cathedral drew controversy with its proposed mosaic depictions of Putin and Stalin.
In 2019, Volodymyr Zelenskyy went from being a comedian and political outsider to being in the spotlight as Ukraine's new President. Join us as we review his first year in office and cover last week's terrorist act in Lutsk.
A Russian lawyer, an American investment banker and the collapse of the Soviet union - this may sound like the start of a corny joke, but in this week's episode we'll be looking at how they come together to fight global corruption in the 21st century. Also, proposed amendments to Ukraine's language laws spark protests.
This week we look to America and interview the founders of Divchata, a group that's working towards equality and social justice for Ukrainian women all over the world. Also, a group of nuns share their Ukrainian embroidery traditions to make face masks for those who need them most.
For more information on Project Divchata:
https://www.facebook.com/projectdivchata/
News Stories:
- France to supply 20 patrol boats to Ukraine – French envoy (https://www.unian.info/society/france-to-supply-20-patrol-boats-to-ukraine-french-envoy-11073119.html)
- Ukraine marks 30th anniversary of adoption of Declaration of State Sovereignty (https://www.ukrinform.net/rubric-society/3063932-ukraine-marks-30th-anniversary-of-adoption-of-declaration-of-state-sovereignty.html?fbclid=IwAR3H42XvMsgWxyxb9GAb4LFCmOWfsJqADwdHCKGZVKmMVKW-pxpvU9zLry4)
- EU calls on Russia to accept responsibility for MH17 (https://www.unian.info/politics/mh17-anniversary-eu-calls-on-russia-to-accept-responsibility-for-downing-in-donbas-11077454.html?fbclid=IwAR13uan0qx6UBuUuvHLcX3A0JUh9i9xAn7I4jwKwh8p7xz665sketNcSOAo)
- Dozens Rally Near Ukraine Constitutional Court Over Controversial Language Law (https://www.rferl.org/a/ukraine-rally-language-law-constiutional-court/30716803.html?fbclid=IwAR2zfyCZL9rnnxeqBv5zYz6FIsSzmHN_R8RqZzHZT5yluRJiB16shdrvP1o)
In our first episode we discuss not only the challenges of community life over the last few months under COVID-19 lockdown, but also the resilience and ingenuity that has helped our churches and organisations remain connected.
Visit us at www.ukilifeabroad.com