about US
The Devon Ukrainian Association (DUA) is a community-led organisation dedicated to supporting Ukrainians living in Devon and across the South West of England. Founded in response to the war in Ukraine, DUA has grown into a trusted hub of cultural, educational, emotional, and practical support for displaced Ukrainians, while also fostering deeper understanding between communities in the UK and Ukraine.
We are proud to champion Ukrainian culture, language, and civic identity — creating spaces where people can connect, heal, learn, and thrive.
What We Do
Our services are built around the needs of our community, with a strong emphasis on empowerment, dignity, and solidarity.
Cultural and Language Programming
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Ukrainian language school and teen club
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Celebrations of national holidays, religious services, and cultural traditions
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Exhibitions, concerts, and storytelling projects
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Arts and crafts workshops rooted in Ukrainian heritage
Employability and Enterprise
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Business support and self-employment pathways
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Market and pop-up opportunities for Ukrainian entrepreneurs
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Skills-based workshops: branding, budgeting, catering, and sales
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Networking and mentoring through the Ukrainian Business Club
Mental Health and Wellbeing
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Accredited “Living Life to the Full” courses delivered in Ukrainian
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Women’s wellbeing workshops and peer support groups
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Trauma-informed programming for children and families
Practical Support and Integration
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ESOL classes and translation support
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Housing navigation and advocacy
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Help with local services, benefits, and referrals
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Social gatherings to build community and reduce isolation
Civic Engagement and Solidarity with Ukraine
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Fundraising and humanitarian aid coordination
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Partnerships with councils, universities, and UK-based organisations
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Promoting Ukrainian voices in regional and national conversations
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Dialogue events and educational outreach
our Mission
Our mission is to nurture a resilient Ukrainian community across Devon and the South West, where individuals feel empowered, supported, and connected.
Through education, enterprise, and shared cultural experiences, we help Ukrainians rebuild their lives with dignity, while strengthening ties to both the UK and Ukraine.
our history
Devon Ukrainian Association (DUA) was formally established in May 2022 with support from Exeter City Council, emerging from the grassroots success of the Conversation Café for Ukraine—an initiative launched in March 2022 by Maketank Cultural Lab in partnership with Exeter City Council. The café quickly evolved into a vibrant welcome hub for displaced Ukrainians and a civic space for local residents interested in supporting Ukraine and hosting refugees.
As the war escalated, the Conversation Café became a vital bridge between communities, catalyzing a dynamic programme of events, awareness campaigns, and cultural engagement. By Autumn 2022, the Devon Ukrainian Association CIC assumed full leadership of the project, cultivating partnerships with a wide range of stakeholders including Exeter City Council, Devon County Council, East Devon District Council, University of Exeter, Exeter College, Exeter Phoenix, Four of Swords, Mint Church, Exeter Cathedral, and St. Sidwell’s Community Centre.
This collaborative model of rapid, community-led response has drawn national attention. Exeter City Council was approached by other local authorities seeking to replicate DUA’s success in welcoming and integrating Ukrainian refugees. The work of the Conversation Café has been featured widely in the media, including seven BBC Radio Devon interviews, three BBC South West television spots, and three ITV News features.
In recognition of its impact, the project received the Exeter Living Award in the Civic category in March 2024. DUA continues to grow as a trusted organisation championing Ukrainian culture, community integration, and civic dialogue in Devon.