Lidiia: “From the very beginning, we felt warmth and openness from the Polish people. For three years, we have encountered nothing but kindness and support.”

Displacement experience 

Before the war, I worked with people, conducting somatic and therapeutic practices. I will never forget the morning of February 24, 2022. I was awakened by explosions in the city of Dnipro — that’s when we realized that Russia had attacked Ukraine. It was terrifying. Sirens wailed constantly in the city — day and night. Despite my terror, I found the strength to support others. Together with my daughter, Julia Sharypova, we organized aid: we delivered food, medicine, and supplies to displaced persons, and provided emotional support. We also raised funds for the army and hospitals. My daughter’s husband went to defend Ukraine on the second day of the war.  

When the situation became too dangerous, he told us to flee to Poland, where my grandson was studying. We set off on a long journey, it was another challenge. We are extremely grateful to the Polish border guards for their understanding and kindness. We didn’t know the language, so the first few days were difficult. My daughter spoke English, which helped us a lot. The most difficult thing after our arrival was finding a place to live. At first, we stayed in Łódź, and then we looked for opportunities to move to Warsaw — closer to our grandson. 

Encounter with JRS 

While looking for Polish language courses, we heard about the JRS Foundation from Ukrainians. They spoke warmly about cultural events, prayers for Ukraine, and the atmosphere of support.  As soon as the opportunity arose, we signed up for the courses. They are really high quality — we are taught by experienced, empathetic teachers who understand what we have been through. It is important that the courses last for five months — this gives us a real chance to learn the language.  

I would like to especially thank the team and management of the JRS Foundation. They are extremely warm and open people. Their kindness and warmth really give us strength. I am extremely grateful to the foundation’s management for their trust and support during such a difficult time for me. That is why we proposed a volunteer initiative — the “Space for Peace” program — psychological support for Ukrainian migrants. We want to help them adapt better and find their place in their new reality. 

Integration and future 

Living in a new country without knowing the language is a huge challenge. But from the very beginning, we felt warmth and openness from the Polish people. For three years, we have encountered nothing but kindness and support. This moves us deeply — and inspires us to help others. 

After everything that has happened, it is difficult to look to the future with complete peace of mind. But I continue to provide psychological support to people, learn about Polish society, and prepare to establish my own organization—based on knowledge, experience, and heart. I want to continue learning the language and get to know the history and traditions of Poland better. I believe in a bright future for our two brotherly nations — Poland and Ukraine. Good relations, respect, and cooperation multiply goodness and light. 

JRS is working together with the Xavier Network, the Society of Jesus in Europe, local civil society, and NGOs in a coordinated Jesuit response. Together we help thousands of people like Lidiia. You can read more about The One Proposal at: jrseurope.org/en/project/the-one-proposal/.