The Ukrainian Institute of America was honored to welcome Ambassador Andrii Melnyk, Ukraine’s new Permanent Representative to the UN, with an evening of heartfelt conversation and community spirit. The Ambassador’s remarks resonated deeply, and the warm reception reflected our shared commitment to Ukraine’s voice on the global stage. We look forward to continuing to support the vital work of Ukraine’s Mission to the United Nations.

The UIA was honored to host the 19th annual International Helvi Sipilä Seminar in partnership with the Permanent Mission of Finland to the UN, the Finnish delegation to CSW69 and esteemed Finnish NGOs, including the Coalition of Finnish Women’s Associations, the Finland National Committee for UN Women, the Finnish Federation of Graduate Women, the National Council of Women of Finland, and YWCA Finland.

The conversation underscored the significance of grassroots empowerment as the backbone of a just and sustainable peace in post-war Ukraine.

Sincere thanks to guest speakers Laura Rissanen (State Secretary to the Minister of Social Security of Finland) and Kirsi Madi (Deputy Executive Director for Resource Management, Sustainability and Partnerships, UN Women). Thanks also to panelists Casey Harden (Secretary General YWCA World), Katya Soldak (filmmaker and Forbes journalist), Halyna Skipalska (Ukraine Director, HealthRight International), Oksana Nesterenko (Executive Director of CSO “The Anti-corruption Research and Education Center”), and Silvia Modig (President of the National Council of Women of Finland). 

The UIA was proud to host a conversation around the launch of Ukraine is Not Silent, a volume that chronicles the fight against war-related sexual violence. Download the book HERE.

We were honored to welcome survivors and activists, Iryna Dovhan and Liudmyla Huseynova, who work tirelessly to build awareness and seek justice. And we are immensely grateful to all program participants for their commitment to reinforcing the urgent call for justice. Sincere thanks to Deputy Prime Minister of Ukraine, Olha Stefanishyna, the delegation of Ukraine to CSW69, the Permanent Mission of Ukraine to the UN, the Georgetown Institute for Women, Peace and Security, the World Federation of Ukrainian Women’s Organizations, the Ukrainian National Women’s League of America,  the Ukrainian Women’s Fund, and Self Reliance (NY) Federal Credit Union.

The Ukrainian Made showcase at the Ukrainian Institute of America spotlighted the resilience, craftsmanship, and innovative spirit of Ukraine’s designers, artisans, and entrepreneurs. With cutting-edge fashion from Bevza, Code 380, and Polly Anna NY, alongside the exceptional flavors of Brave Selections, the event showcased how Ukrainian creators are driving the country’s cultural and economic future through bold innovation.

From contemporary design to culinary excellence, Ukrainian Made was a dynamic display of the ingenuity and determination driving Ukraine forward. As Ukrainian talent continues to gain global recognition, opportunities to engage with and support these creators remain essential.

Stay connected for future events celebrating Ukraine’s rich creative landscape.

We were honored to host Alexander Vindman for our commemoration of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine with the launch of his book The Folly of Realism: How the West Deceived Itself About Russia and Betrayed Ukraine. 

Thank you to everyone who joined us to hear Vindman’s insights on how short-term policymaking and misplaced hopes have shaped America’s approach to Eastern Europe—and why a long-term, values-based strategy rooted in liberal democracy and a rules-based world order is essential for the future.

Learn more about The Folly of Realism HERE.

Thank you to everyone who joined us on Sunday, February 23, 2025, for our compelling film screening series marking three years of resilience. Through powerful award-winning films and documentaries, including Porcelain War, Bucha, La Palisiada, and more we reflected on stories of courage, history, and culture. Your presence helped honor the strength and perseverance that continue to define this journey. Stay connected for more events that celebrate and preserve Ukraine’s rich cultural narrative.

Books at the Institute was honored to host Tetyana Teren, Executive Director of PEN Ukraine, and Lydia Tomkiw, journalist for a thought-provoking conversation about Victoria Amelina’s Looking at Women Looking at War.

Victoria Amelina’s legacy continues to inspire, serving as a poignant reminder of the importance of documenting truth during times of conflict. Her work stands as a testament to courage, humanity, and the enduring power of storytelling.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for this memorable evening. Learn more about the book here.

Thank you to everyone who joined us for Music at the Institute: Elegies and Memories on Sunday, February 9, 2025. It was an evening of deeply moving performances, exploring themes of love, loss, and the resilience of the human spirit.

Held at the Ukrainian Institute of America, this concert brought together an extraordinary ensemble of musicians: baritone Randall Scarlata, oboist Katherine Needleman, accordionist Hanzhi Wang, violinist Solomiya Ivakhiv, violist Jessica Thompson, and cellist Marcy Rosen. We are grateful for your presence and support of our musical programs. Stay tuned for more inspiring performances in the coming months!

On February 5, 2025, he Ukrainian Institute of America hosted a screening of Porcelain War, a powerful documentary that tells a story of resilience, resistance, and enduring hope in the face of unimaginable circumstances. Nominated for an Academy Award®️ for Best Documentary Feature, this film is a testament to the unbreakable human spirit.

Don’t miss the Oscars®️ on March 2, 2025, to see Porcelain War among the nominees.

Explore event highlights below!

On January 24, 2025, at the Ukrainian Institute of America, we were honored to host the opening of SAINTS, a collection of photographs by Sasha Maslov.
Thank you to everyone who joined us to pay tribute to the modern-day saints portrayed in this evocative and deeply moving collection. The exhibition will remain open through March 30, 2025. Relive the evening and explore event photos.