Czech Chapter in Ukrainian history

An Unforgettable Talk by Ludmila Cizevska: A Voice of Courage and Connection
On 13th June, we had the privilege of welcoming Ludmila Cizevska, Head of the Volhynian Czechs and the Czech National Council in Ukraine, for a powerful and moving talk held at the Czech Embassy in London.
The event was organised by Czech and Slovak School Okénko and the British Czech and Slovak Association, in cooperation with the Czech Embassy in London.
Ms. Cizevska gave a compelling presentation on the history and present-day reality of the Czech community in Ukraine—a story of resilience, identity, and shared heritage. Her talk was followed by a very rich and thought-provoking discussion with the audience, marked by emotional reflections and insightful questions. As one participant aptly said:
“I wish all Czechs heard your talk so that they realise how interlinked Czechs and Ukrainians truly are.”
What makes Ludmila’s story even more remarkable is her unwavering strength and compassion. At the onset of the war, she organised buses to bring women and children to safety, prioritising the lives of others before her own. Some of the stories she shared were deeply moving--echoing memories of the Kindertransport of 1939, as recounted by Lady Milena Grenfell-Baines.
🕊️ Is history repeating itself? That question lingered long after the discussion ended.
Ludmila’s voice is one of both moral clarity and cultural memory, and her work continues to build bridges between communities in times of hardship.
🎥 A recording of the talk will be available soon on the
British Czech and Slovak Association YouTube channel — we highly encourage you to watch and reflect.
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