How I’m feeling

An 18 year old Ukrainian student writes for Tag

Journalist: Daryna Khmeliar

Photographer: Tetiana Khmeliar Desinger: Jason Hollis

J ust a year ago, I was different, I had grandiose plans and lived a peaceful life at home, but unfortunately, a war started in my country and I had to move to a safe place. England is a beautiful country, but when you are forced to take a step for your safety and future, it feels different. It is not easy to adapt to new rules and laws, to open up to new people, to be flexible, to focus on the positives. Also, to enter a new educational institution in a different language, to discipline myself every day, but this is what made me stronger, different, new Daryna.

Student life in England is different from Ukraine. I like how children become independent from their parents at an earlier age here. In Ukraine, most children are financially dependent on their parents until the age of 20. At first, it was difficult for me to accept the fact that I would work as a waitress, because I was afraid of such a job. But it was my discipline and desire to achieve goals that was higher than my ego. I work at a cosy little café where I can communicate with British people, learn something new from them; these interactions really help to improve my English.

I am grateful to my host family who gave us the opportunity to live with them, they surround us with love and care. If a year ago we were strangers, now they are my family, to which I will visit in the future, that my children will meet, and they will visit me.

I love the nature here. Parks in England are amazing, very clean and peaceful. Life hurts, nature heals. I believe the war in Ukraine will end soon.

You are more than welcome to visit and discover our amazing country.

What the war taught me

• Focus on the moment

• Listen to nature

• Be grateful for everything

• Appreciate your family, because you don’t know what might happen tomorrow

• Love yourself and surround yourself with beautiful people

• Trust the universe, because God has his own plan for everyone.