Introduction
Hanna Karttunen is a talented professional dancer, recognized for her performances in various dance styles and her contributions to the arts. Beyond her dance career, she has gained attention for her humanitarian work, particularly as an ambassador for aid initiatives in Ukraine. Since the onset of the conflict in March 2022, she has been actively involved in efforts to provide support and relief to those affected by the war.
With her husband, Jone Nikula, who is a well-known figure in the music industry in Finland, she has used their platform to raise awareness and mobilize resources for humanitarian efforts. Their work includes organizing fundraising events, collecting supplies, and fostering community support for displaced individuals and families.
Hanna’s dual commitment to the arts and humanitarian causes showcases her dedication to making a positive impact in the world, inspiring others to engage in charitable activities and support those in need.
Initially, I operated as a private individual, but it soon became clear that an official charity organization was necessary. Thus, my husband and I founded Pro Ukrainia Ry, a registered charity based in Finland.
Our Mission
Since the onset of the war, we have made nine trips to Ukraine, with Hanna personally undertaking three additional trips, bringing our total to twelve. Our next trip is planned for November 2024.
Planning and Coordination
Before each trip, I work from home, connecting with our trusted Ukrainian partners: Grand Amour Charity Fund, Guardian of the South, and Poparam Foundation. We assess the most urgent supplies needed at each specific time, ensuring that our vehicles are loaded efficiently and that our fuel expenses are justified. In the early days of the war, we received many offers for clothing donations, including items like dancing shoes. However, we chose to focus our efforts on critical needs such as:
– Medical supplies for military and civilian hospitals
– Rehabilitation centers for wounded warriors
– Safety equipment for people in hotspots
– Support for orphanages
– Essential supplies for frontline warriors, including warm underwear, protective gloves, eye protection, combat boots, binoculars, tourniquets, and first aid kits
Sourcing Supplies
Based on the assessed needs, I reach out to Finnish companies to gauge their willingness to donate or sell products at wholesale prices. Most companies I contacted have been generous, often providing additional donations on top of the wholesale prices.
In the early days of the conflict, I raised nearly 40,000 euros through the support of friends and colleagues in the dance community across the US and Asia. This funding allowed us to order and gather supplies for each trip.
Preparation for Each Trip
I create an itemized itinerary of all products collected. Our home serves as a temporary warehouse where we store and box the supplies, preparing them for the journey ahead. The number of vehicles in our convoy varies based on the availability of cars, vans, and willing drivers. We’ve had convoys ranging from three vehicles, including a van, to just one spacious vehicle driven by my husband and me.
The Journey
We embark on our drive from Helsinki to Lviv, which typically takes about approximately 20 hours. To save both time and money, we make the decision to drive straight through to Lviv, only stopping for fuel and toilet breaks. We prepare snacks, water, and plenty of coffee at home, eating in the car and picking up additional snacks or coffee as needed during our stops. We also rotate drivers at petrol stations to ensure we remain alert and energized for the long journey.
Once we reach the Rhebenne border crossing, the process of crossing into Ukraine at Rava Ruska can take anywhere from one hour to four hours or more, depending on border traffic and customs checks. After clearing customs, it’s about another hour’s drive to our destination in Lviv.
Delivering Aid to Grand Amour Atelier
On our first few trips, we delivered all supplies directly to Grand Amour Atelier, which is located in Lviv. This atelier is internationally recognized for designing and producing garments for dance competitions. The owner, Yevgen Frolov, has been a dedicated volunteer with his Grand Amour Charity Fund since the war began, working tirelessly to help those in need.
At Grand Amour Atelier, we reorganize and sort all our supplies to prepare them for distribution to various locations across Ukraine. This collaboration has been instrumental in ensuring that our aid reaches those who need it most, from hospitals and rehabilitation centers to frontline warriors and vulnerable communities. The work we do, in partnership with Yevgen and his team, exemplifies the spirit of solidarity and resilience in the face of adversity. Each trip reinforces our commitment to supporting the people of Ukraine and responding to their urgent needs.
Reflections on Our Trips: A Collective Effort
As we reflect on our journeys to Ukraine, it’s essential to acknowledge that these trips mark the beginning of a much more organized and impactful series of actions in support of the Ukrainian people. The scale of our operations has been made possible solely through the generous donations from private individuals.
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to those, who have been instrumental in enabling us to launch our efforts and adapt them to the evolving circumstances of the war in Ukraine. Your unwavering support has not only been a driving force behind our initiatives but has also inspired others to contribute. It’s worth noting that your commitment to Ukraine extends beyond our organization; your involvement and generous donations to various events and organizations globally are nothing short of remarkable.
It’s crucial to emphasize the importance of this support—not as a means of seeking recognition for the work we’ve accomplished but as a reminder of the profound impact that collective action can have. When individuals unite, each contributing what they can, it creates a powerful force for good. This collaboration makes a tangible difference and truly saves lives.
Our experiences reinforce the idea that working together for a common cause is not just valuable but essential. Every contribution, no matter how small, adds up to create significant change. It is only through this sense of unity and shared purpose that we can continue to support those in need and face the challenges ahead.
Thank you for being part of this journey and for standing with us and the people of Ukraine. Together, we can achieve so much more.
Evolving Strategies: Adapting to the Needs of Ukraine
Since our initial aid runs in early 2022, our strategy for providing support has evolved significantly in response to the changing circumstances of the war. We have been fortunate to receive consistent donations and supplies from companies and associates in Finland who have stood by us since day one. This ongoing support is invaluable, and we are grateful to see more people recognizing our volunteer work, along with the transparency of our operations. As a result, we have been able to establish new contacts and expand our network of support. Our list of volunteer drivers willing to join our convoy continues to grow, reflecting the community’s commitment to helping Ukraine.
Challenges at the Border
Crossing the border into Ukraine has become increasingly difficult and time-consuming compared to the early days of the conflict. Customs regulations have tightened significantly, with authorities closely scrutinizing all aid entering the country. They require detailed documentation regarding the origin of the supplies, the purpose of the transport, and the specific Ukrainian organizations involved in the distribution. The amount of paperwork needed, both before and after the crossing, has made preparation more complex and challenging, leading to longer wait times at the border.
New Logistics in Lviv
By early 2023, we adapted our approach upon arriving in Lviv. Instead of delivering supplies directly to Grand Amour Atelier, we now head straight to Nova Poshta, a large Ukrainian postal service that operates more like a massive cargo facility than a traditional post office. Here, we meet Rafa from Grand Amour Atelier—someone we’ve known since our first trip in March 2022. Despite the language barrier, as Rafa speaks very little English, we have developed a system that enables effective communication and collaboration.
Prior to each trip, I send out itemized lists detailing all items and their intended destinations. We ensure that all necessary documentation is organized and understood by everyone involved. In moments of uncertainty, Google Translate becomes an invaluable tool, bridging the gap between languages.
Celebrating Our Successes
After approximately 30 hours on the road, managing the logistics and ensuring that all supplies are safely on their way to their designated locations, the atmosphere within our team shifts to one of joy and gratitude. We celebrate the completion of another successful mission, acknowledging the hard work and dedication that has gone into making it happen.
Fun Facts from My Travels
As part of my journey to support Ukraine, I’ve crossed the border in various ways—by car, train, bus, and even on foot—navigating all kinds of weather conditions. Each experience has been unique, filled with challenges and memorable moments.
Delivering Supplies and Teaching Dancers
After delivering supplies to those in need, I often travel around Ukraine to teach and work with dancers. Every penny I earn during my time in Ukraine is donated in full to a previously chosen cause.
My stays in Ukraine typically last a minimum of 2-3 weeks and can occur as frequently as 3-5 times a year. Given the length of my trips, it’s not feasible for my husband or the rest of our team to take off work for such extended periods. Therefore, I travel to Ukraine on my own, ahead of our convoy. While I raise funds through my lessons, my husband leads the Pro Ukraina convoy filled with supplies along Via Baltica and through Poland, crossing the border at Rhebenne to the Ukrainian side at Rava Ruska, and finally reaching Lviv.
Once our mission is completed in Lviv, the Pro Ukraina team rests at the hotel before returning to Finland, while my husband joins me for the conclusion of my teaching trip in Ukraine. Together, we drive back to Helsinki in one of the convoy cars that he parked at the Grand Amour parking lot in Lviv.
Memorable Crossing Experience
One of the funniest moments occurred when I attempted to cross the Ukrainian border on foot to Poland in December 2022. We had factored in an extra five hours for travel to ensure I could catch my flight from Warsaw to Helsinki, but I ended up missing it by just 30 minutes!
Adventures on the Train
My train rides, whether alone or sometimes accompanied by Ukrainian dancers, are always an adventure. The journeys can be long, often taking place overnight, and range from 6 to 13 hours, or even longer. For instance, my trip from Prague to Kharkiv took nearly 48 hours!
I sometimes get lucky with a cabin for two all to myself, but more often than not, I share the space. Traveling alone typically requires me to carry at least one large suitcase filled with essential supplies like medicine, drones, binoculars, and more, resulting in a significant amount of luggage.
Responding to the Crisis in Kherson Oblast
A Urgent Response to the Kakhovka Dam Disaster
In early June 2023, following the catastrophic destruction of the Kakhovka Dam, there was an urgent need for water, food, hygiene supplies, medicine, and even mattresses for those affected in the Kherson Oblast region. In response, our organization, Pro Ukraina Ry, successfully raised nearly 10,000 euros in Finland to assist the civilians impacted by this disaster.
A New Strategy for Aid
We adopted a new strategy of raising funds in Finland and purchasing supplies directly in Ukraine. This approach allowed us to save on transportation costs while maximizing the impact of our donations. By buying supplies locally, we not only got more value for our money but also supported the Ukrainian economy during a critical time.
I packed a few suitcases filled with essential supplies that were hard to come by in Ukraine and flew to Warsaw. From there, I took a train to Kyiv, where I taught dance classes to raise money for an orphanage in Koresten, located near Borodyanka—the site of some of the first battles of the war.
Visiting the Orphanage
During my trip, I had the opportunity to visit the orphanage. This was one of the most emotional moments I’ve experienced, and I will never forget the resilience of the children there.
Collaboration with Guardian of the South
Upon arriving in Kyiv, I was met by a van sent by Guardian of the South from Yuzhnoukrainsk. Accompanied by the driver and one of the dancers, we purchased as many supplies as possible according to the urgent needs list funded by the donations from Finland. We loaded the van and set off for Yuzhnoukrainsk.
The volunteer team from Guardian of the South had organized a system to package boxes for families who had lost everything except the clothes on their backs due to the explosion. Their dedication and commitment were inspiring.
A Heartfelt Welcome in Yuzhnoukrainsk
Upon my arrival in Yuzhnoukrainsk, I was met with heartfelt warmth by the volunteers and Lyudmyla at the headquarters of Guardian of the South. They greeted me with flowers and the Ukrainian flag, a gesture that left me feeling humbled and emotional. It was a powerful reminder of the resilience and unity of the Ukrainian people in the face of adversity.
Days Filled with Purpose
During my three days in Yuzhnoukrainsk, my mornings were dedicated to purchasing additional supplies, including fresh vegetables and medicine, with the remaining funds I had. In the afternoons and evenings, I taught dance classes to the children, sharing joy and creativity with them despite the challenging circumstances surrounding us.
Collaboration and Community Efforts
Throughout the day, while I was teaching, the dedicated volunteers of Guardian of the South were hard at work organizing food, medicine, and hygiene supplies into packages for families in the affected areas. Their commitment to helping those in need was inspiring, and I felt honored to be part of this collective effort.
Every evening, after my teaching sessions, I would return to the headquarters to see the progress they had made. More packages were being filled, and others were already being delivered to families left with nothing. Witnessing this cycle of support and connection was a profound experience.
The Power of Community Connection
What struck me most during this time was the incredible impact that comes when people come together with a shared goal to make a difference. It was truly humbling to have the chance to be part of such a meaningful mission, contributing to the lives of those in need and witnessing the strength of community spirit in action. This experience reinforced my belief in the power of collective efforts to create positive change, even in the most challenging of times
Teaching Dance in Ukraine: A Unique Way to Raise Funds for Support
In the early days of 2022, following the onset of the war, I realized that after completing our aid deliveries, I could continue to contribute by staying in Ukraine to teach, lecture, and participate in dance and fundraising events. This not only allowed me to support the local dance community but also to raise vital funds for various initiatives that address urgent needs in the country.
Since February 24, 2022, I have traveled extensively across Ukraine, teaching in cities such as Lviv, Kyiv, Dnipro, Yuzhnoukrainsk, and Kharkiv. Each journey has been an opportunity to connect with talented young dancers and provide them with encouragement and mentorship during these challenging times.
Commitment to Giving Back
All the funds generated from my work in Ukraine are donated in full to support different initiatives. I take great care in choosing the causes to which I contribute, collaborating closely with my counterparts in Ukraine to ensure that the funds are directed where they are most needed.
The initiatives I support vary widely, from providing resources for orphanages to addressing the specific needs of frontline warriors—many of whom were dancers before the war began on February 24, 2022. The supplies needed by these individuals are critical and often include essential items such as tourniquets, sleeping bags, warm underwear, and a range of first aid and medical supplies.
A Shared Purpose
Through these efforts, I aim to not only uplift the spirits of the young dancers I teach but also ensure that my contributions have a tangible impact on the lives of those affected by the conflict. This dual mission of educating and supporting the community allows me to play a small yet meaningful role in the resilience and recovery of Ukraine.
Teaching in Ukraine has become more than just a professional endeavor; it’s a heartfelt commitment to stand in solidarity with the people of Ukraine and contribute to their ongoing fight for peace and stability. Every class I teach and every dancer I meet serves as a reminder of the strength and determination of the Ukrainian people, and I am honored to be part of their journey.
A Lesson in Resilience: Teaching Sasha
In May 2024, I had the profound honor of teaching little Sasha, a remarkable girl who dances with her brother. Sasha has always dreamed of being a gymnast, but her journey took a tragic turn in May 2022 when she lost her leg and nearly her life due to a Russian attack near her home.
After the attack, Sasha received extensive treatment in Austria, where she showed incredible strength and determination throughout her recovery. Now, she is back in Ukraine, dancing with the same passion and spirit that she once had for gymnastics.
Sasha is a beautiful child, not just in appearance but in the strength of her character. Her resilience and bravery in the face of such adversity are truly inspiring. Teaching her was more than just a lesson in dance; it was a reminder of the human spirit’s ability to overcome even the greatest challenges.
Witnessing Sasha dance, despite the obstacles she has faced, filled me with hope and admiration. She embodies the idea that dreams can still flourish, even after the most devastating experiences. In every movement she made, I could see her determination to reclaim her dreams and inspire others around her.
Working with Sasha and her brother was a deeply rewarding experience, and it reinforced my commitment to supporting young talents like them in Ukraine. Their stories of courage and perseverance remind us all of the power of hope and the importance of standing together in solidarity.
The Resilience of Dance in Ukraine
In Ukraine, the art of dance faces challenges that are unimaginable in many parts of the world. Air alarms frequently interrupt rehearsals and performances, and the sound of explosions can be heard nearby. Yet, despite these dire circumstances, the spirit of the Ukrainian dancing community remains unbreakable.
I have experienced this resilience firsthand. On one occasion, I continued my lecture in an underground tunnel in Kyiv, where we found solace and safety amidst the chaos. Similarly, after explosions rocked the city center of Kharkiv, we kept dancing in a shelter, refusing to let fear extinguish our passion for movement and expression.
Since December 2022, the struggle for electricity has become a harsh reality for most parts of Ukraine. Cold showers have become the norm—if you’re fortunate enough to have running water at all. Walking up ten or nineteen flights of stairs has become a daily routine during power outages, as elevators are often inoperable. The music and lights at studios and events may cut out unexpectedly, but for the Ukrainian dancing community, these challenges are merely obstacles to navigate.
Rather than viewing these situations as insurmountable problems, they are approached with a mindset focused on solutions. The dancers adapt and find creative ways to continue their work, embodying the resilience that defines their spirit.
At times, the danger of the night can render it too perilous to run to a designated shelter. In such instances, seeking cover in a closet or corridor becomes the safest option. Yet even in these moments of uncertainty, the desire to dance persists, as it serves as both an escape and a form of resistance against the harsh realities of war.
This unwavering commitment to dance, even in the face of danger, showcases not only the strength of the Ukrainian people but also their determination to maintain a semblance of normalcy and joy in their lives. The dance community stands as a testament to the power of art as a means of healing and unity, and I am continually inspired by their courage and tenacity.
Visiting Orphanages in Ukraine: A Journey of Hope
Visiting orphanages in Ukraine has been one of the most emotional and humbling experiences of my journey. The children I met were innocent, filled with curiosity, and brimming with dreams for the future. Despite the challenges they face, their spirits remain bright, reminding me of the resilience of youth.
One particular moment stood out during my visit to an orphanage in Koresten. A sweet girl approached me, her eyes shining with hope, and presented me with her beloved teddy bear. With a smile, she shared her own dream of traveling the world, expressing a desire to see new places and experience life beyond the confines of the orphanage.
In that heartfelt moment, I felt a deep connection to her aspirations. I promised her that I would take her teddy bear with me on my travels, serving as a symbol of her dreams and our shared commitment to adventure. I told her that I would carry the bear until she was ready to explore the world herself.
This exchange was a poignant reminder of the power of dreams and the importance of nurturing hope, especially in the lives of children who have faced unimaginable hardships. It reinforced my belief in the need to support these young souls, providing them with opportunities and encouragement to pursue their aspirations.
As I continue my work in Ukraine, I hold onto the promise I made to that little girl. Her teddy bear will be a constant reminder of the dreams we all share, regardless of our circumstances, and the importance of believing that a brighter future is possible. Each visit to the orphanages has not only enriched my life but has also strengthened my commitment to advocate for and uplift these children, helping them to see that their dreams can indeed become a reality.
Committed to creating positive change through compassion and action. Together, let’s make a meaningful impact in the world.
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