A Ukrainian photographer, now based in Carlisle, had an unforgettable moment while on tour with Hardwicke Circus – meeting former Ukrainian President Viktor Yushchenko.
Veronika Zolotoverkha is in Ukraine with the Carlisle-based band. While in Cumbria, she has taken thousands of photos of events, including many published on Cumbria Crack.
She said her meeting with Yushchenko, the nation’s third president and a symbol of the 2004 Orange Revolution, was both emotional and inspiring.
She added: “It was surreal. To meet someone who played such a key role in Ukraine’s democratic journey reminded me why this country’s resilience is so powerful.”
Yushchenko praised the tour’s message of solidarity, bringing their music and commending the collaboration between British artists and Ukrainian volunteers.
Veronika said the experience represented a full-circle moment — returning home not as a refugee, but as a photographer documenting hope, unity, and courage.
He asked Veronika if the band were surprised by the Ukrainians’ strength and bravery – she replied “definitely”.
He drew attention to the yellow and blue ribbon on the camera, saying that our people manage to attach a flag even to a camera and that the ribbons are worn, and it’s clear they’ve been there a long time and in many places.
