When we arrived in Scotland, my nine-year-old son and I were exhausted but profoundly grateful for the calm skies above us. Our home in Ukraine had been destroyed, and we were forced to leave everything behind. From the very first days, we felt deep gratitude. Scotland gave us the opportunity to begin again and rebuild our lives in safety.
Settling in Scotland: Safe housing and school life
We were supported by several organisations, including the Scottish Refugee Council, Celtic Football Club, Barnardo’s, The Wise Group and others. Just as meaningful were the small acts of kindness from neighbours who helped us in everyday ways. I remember one neighbour giving us a card written in Ukrainian that said, Щасливого Різдва, which translates to ‘Merry Christmas’. It touched us deeply and remains a lasting memory of generosity and compassion.
Within our first weeks in Scotland, we were provided with housing through Homes for Good, and my son started attending Oakgrove Primary School. His first teacher, Ms Taylor, welcomed him warmly and helped him settle with confidence. I will always be grateful to her, as she was the first person in this country whom I trusted with my child.
My son served as chair of the school council, during which he sometimes interpreted for teachers and newly arrived Ukrainian families, helping them feel more confident and understood. This experience strengthened his sense of responsibility and showed him the importance of supporting others.
Simple gestures of kindness – a smile, a helping hand, a friendly conversation – made an enormous difference to us. My son often said, “people here truly care.” Those moments helped us feel at home and inspired us to give something back.
Learning, professional growth and supporting others
Since moving to Scotland, I experienced significant personal growth. Life here was emotionally demanding at first, but it strengthened my resilience and underscored the value of community. While mentoring and engaging in charitable work, I began studying at Glasgow Kelvin College, balancing education and professional pursuits. Now, my son and I share our knowledge to support those who may feel uncertain or lost, as we once did.
I also provide online guidance to people in Scotland and across Europe, helping them navigate personal transformation during difficult times. Thanks to the opportunities Scotland has given us, I gained direct experience of adapting and integrating, which I now use to support others facing similar challenges.
At a friend’s suggestion, I became a co-founder of the Integravia Foundation in Scotland, alongside other Ukrainians seeking asylum here. Our journey has given us a clear understanding of integration, allowing us to offer both practical assistance and emotional support to those adjusting to life after migration.
Challenges, achievements and looking ahead
Building a life in Scotland has not been without challenges. The Scottish accent can be difficult to understand, and cultural differences require patience and openness. Yet, we approach them with respect and gratitude, knowing this country offered us safety and a new start.
My son is now in secondary school, showing resilience and courage every day. The combination of personal development, professional work and active community involvement has made Scotland feel truly like home.
My advice is simple. Value the present moment, look for ways to help others and remain grateful for every act of support. Even small daily steps towards integration matter.
Each day, I am thankful for the peaceful skies over Scotland, which have given us the security and calm to rebuild our lives. In return, we strive to support others, share our experience, and inspire resilience and gratitude – the qualities that have allowed us to flourish here. Our story shows that even the smallest act of kindness can profoundly shape the journey of someone beginning again in a new country.
*If anybody needs help please contact Scottish Refugee Council (SRC).
Bylines Scotland thanks Viktoriia and the SRC for all their hard work and dedication.
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