WCK Ukraine Regional Lead Kyrylo is originally from the Zaporizhzhia region. He lived in Kharkiv for ten years, and before the full-scale invasion, he worked in his family’s ceramic and furniture production business. Now his hometown and the family business are under occupation.

We sat down with Kyrylo to talk about his experience working with WCK and what being part of our #ChefsForUkraine team means to him. Read the full interview below.

What is one moment of community resilience that stands out to you?

On June 14 at 4 a.m., our warehouse in Zaporizhzhia was destroyed by drones. Food kits, water, a field kitchen, emergency reserves—everything was lost in seconds. It was a devastating blow for us, because that warehouse had been the heart of our work since 2022. Yet on that same day, our team came together, rebuilt emergency stocks, and adapted logistics. By standing united, we were ready for the next challenge.

When our warehouse was hit, I was deeply moved when community leaders from the towns we support called to express sympathy and even offered to help clear the rubble. That is proof that even in the darkest moments, we know how to unite. Humanity shines brightest when everything else seems to collapse.

We did not stop. We kept delivering food kits, we rebuilt our logistics, and we found a new warehouse. Today, in this new space, we welcome guests, ship food kits, water, and even chicken feed—and we continue our mission with renewed energy. Destruction could not silence us; it only made us stronger.

How is WCK supporting families who are living in evacuation centers?

At the Artak evacuation center, seniors and persons with disabilities from Zaporizhzhia and Donetsk find not only shelter, medical care, and help with documents—they also find hope. What began as hot lunches grew into a full kitchen. Now we support them with bulk products, and their cooks prepare meals daily with care and dignity. For the residents of Artak, this is more than a plate of food, it is warmth, compassion, and the promise of a future.

What is your favorite WCK #ChefsForUkraine project?

The vegetable kits.

In our region, I often hear from our recipients how important vegetables are. We used to have our own land where we grew cucumbers and potatoes. I hated it as a kid—my dad made me walk long distances, and I hated the whole process. But now I understand how important it was for my grandparents, how much it meant to take care of the land. For us, it was always a sign of a good family—respect for the land.

I used to think, “You can just buy it.” But my grandmother and grandfather had a different view. And now I get it. I remember the taste of their pickled vegetables. Today, many people have lost access to their gardens. And with these vegetable kits, we can give them a bit of that joy — the chance to cook the food they’re used to, the food that feels like home.”

What do you like to do in your spare time? 

I do sport fishing. We catch and release the fish. For me, it’s the perfect escape: you rest in nature, watch the sunrise and sunset, breathe in the smells, disconnect from everything, and stop thinking about worries. Yes, it takes a lot of time and effort, but the reset you get is incredible. And it connects you with people who share the same passion. It’s very cool—and even when you go alone, it’s fun in its own way.”

I also go to the gym all the time. Sport keeps me grounded. That hour and a half is time you invest in yourself, and afterwards you feel better both physically and mentally.

What is your favorite thing about WCK?

I am deeply grateful to the entire WCK team for the flexibility, fast decisions, and for proving once again that together we can support people in their darkest moments. Every box of food, every warm meal, every rebuilt supply line is not just logistics—it is an act of humanity that says: you are not forgotten.

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