Spring 2025 was an incredibly active and meaningful season for Yaryna Levytska and her charitable organization Ukrainian Spirit by Yaryna Levytska (UkrSYL). Within just two months, the organization not only strengthened its presence in the cultural and humanitarian landscape of the United States, but also opened new horizons for supporting Ukraine and its people.
In April, UkrSYL proudly represented Ukraine for the first time at SpringFest International in Orlando. Under the Ukrainian tent, festival guests enjoyed borscht, varenyky, stuffed cabbage rolls, honey cookies, and other traditional dishes. The stage came alive with Ukrainian songs and a fashion show of embroidered clothing — blending authenticity with modernity.
Another major step was participation in Dinner on the Avenue, where the Ukrainian team presented its culture through cuisine, customs, traditions, and national style. Here, the organization earned an Honorable Mention — an important symbol of recognition for the young nonprofit founded by Yaryna Levytska.
While leading cultural initiatives, Yaryna also personally participated in rallies in support of Ukraine — speaking out at demonstrations near Orlando City Hall and in Clermont, constantly reminding the public that Ukraine’s fight for freedom continues.
A significant highlight of this period was Yaryna’s involvement in a photography exhibition by renowned photographer Juan David Tena at the Orlando Museum of Art. Her portrait, one of just 20 selected from over 400 entries, became a centerpiece of the two-month exhibit. At various events, Yaryna shared her personal journey — how war, motherhood, loss, and inner strength inspired her to create UkrSYL.
As part of international cultural collaboration, Yaryna and representatives of the Ukrainian community participated in the Puerto Rican Parade, and welcomed Ukrainian children undergoing prosthetic treatment in Minneapolis (through the Protez Foundation) for a visit to Orlando. UkrSYL arranged a magical day at Disney World and community gatherings — bringing joy and hope to young hearts.
Yaryna also took part in the Festival of Flowers, where she and her family showcased a video highlighting Ukraine’s beauty and traditions, performed Ukrainian music, and — for the first time — presented a Ukrainian dance on stage.
The organization also joined educational initiatives. Yaryna spoke at the American Club in Clermont, sharing her personal story, talking about UkrSYL’s humanitarian projects, and informing others about the current situation in Ukraine. Her sincere words touched hearts and awakened empathy.
On behalf of the Ukrainian community, Yaryna also participated in the Franciscan Prayer Service for Peace, where she read a prayer in both Ukrainian and English — praying for peace in Ukraine and across the world.
The culminating event of this busy season was the organization’s first major Charity Luncheon, held on May 18. The event not only celebrated UkrSYL’s first anniversary, but also launched a new humanitarian initiative: fundraising for all-terrain evacuation ATVs to assist the medical unit of the 3rd Separate Mechanized Battalion of the 53rd Separate Mechanized Brigade named after Volodymyr Monomakh. The event featured an auction, project presentations, and a warm gathering of supporters — and received overwhelmingly positive feedback.
Earlier, the organization successfully completed another milestone project — purchasing 10 adaptive rugby wheelchairs for Ukraine’s veteran national team, Team Ukraine, to compete in the 2025 Invictus Games. For the first time in the Games’ history, Ukraine’s team competed in their own rugby chairs — donated by Ukrainian Spirit by Yaryna Levytska. As a result, the organization’s name is already written in the history of Ukrainian sports and resilience.
Now, a new mission lies ahead — equipping medics with ATVs to save more lives on the front lines.
Yaryna Levytska is not just the founder of a charitable foundation. She is a heart that beats in unison with Ukraine, no matter where she is. She is preparing for another humanitarian mission to Eastern Ukraine to support defenders on the front lines. Her work is a powerful reminder of how one person — armed with faith, love, and action — can truly change the world.
The story continues. After returning from Ukraine, Yaryna plans to participate in Chicago Village Fest, FusionFest, Ukrainian Independence Day celebrations in the U.S., and a charity-focused exhibit in December.
Ukrainian Spirit by Yaryna Levytska is gaining momentum. And in every step — the light of the Ukrainian soul shines bright.
Orlando, Florida
