Zaporizhzhia delegation visits Birmingham to mark 50 years of sisterhood and celebrate community support

Last week, Birmingham welcomed an official delegation from Zaporizhzhia, shining a light on a partnership that quietly marked its 50^th anniversary two years ago. The visit underscored both the endurance of international friendship, and the practical support offered to Ukrainian residents in the city, especially in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

The Zaporizhzhia delegation, comprising Deputy Mayors Mr Igor Burchak and Mr Dmitry Mishchenko, Mr Sergei Chernenko, and Ms Victoria Smirnova, was received by senior figures from Birmingham City Council. The hosts included the Deputy Lord Mayor, Lloyd Broad (Head of European and International Affairs), Marsela Hoxha (Commissioning Manager, Resettlement and Migration Team), and Steve Scrimshaw (Head of Service, Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust).

The day began with a reception at the Council House, where both sides reflected on the history of the twinning agreement, first signed in 1973 and reaffirmed last year during a virtual meeting between civic leaders. Despite years of limited direct collaboration, the relationship has taken on renewed meaning as the city works to support those displaced by war.

Following the reception, the delegation visited Moseley Hive Community Centre, where local partners showcased the initiatives that are helping Ukrainians rebuild their lives. Marsela Hoxha provided an overview of the council’s support services, while community members introduced projects such as business start-up schemes and the Time Train project, delivered in partnership with North Birmingham for Ukraine and Kryla.

Perhaps the most moving moments came as Ukrainian guests shared testimonies about their experiences of settling in Birmingham. The discussion highlighted both the hurdles faced—navigating a new country, language, and systems—and the solidarity and support they have found in local communities.

The visit concluded with the delegation returning to London to continue their participation in the UK Government’s Ukrainian Trade Mission, ‘The Rebirth of Ukraine’.

The visit from the Zaporizhzhia delegation served as a timely reminder of the value of enduring relationships, especially when faced with global uncertainty, and the capacity of local action to make a genuine difference.