The warfare, she stated, modified that. “Many around the world started to admire the courage of Ukrainians who stayed and fought. This in a way changed people’s perception of them from outsiders to Europe to ‘one of us.’”
Ms. Samoylenko stated she had at all times prided herself of being a Ukrainian “success story,” together with her personal gymnastics membership and job as an teacher. She had invited Ukrainian gymnasts to offer classes in Italy even earlier than the warfare, however now curiosity has grown, she stated, and the attitude has typically shifted.
“Now when you say Ukrainian, one does not necessarily think ‘caregiver,’ but of a people who are defending themselves with their own hands,” she stated. “The image has changed.”
Maryna Shutyuk, 25, who was born in Ukraine however has lived in Italy for greater than 10 years, feels a stronger need to exhibit her nationwide satisfaction. Now, she finds herself carrying her embroidered Ukrainian shirts at her household’s lodge, the place she works as a receptionist. Before the warfare, she would achieve this solely not often, often, for non secular holidays she celebrated with different Ukrainians.
The shirts, she stated, are “starting to become fashionable.”
Ms. Shutyuk additionally joined the Ukrainian affiliation in Verona arrange by Ms. Sorina, who stated the rise within the Ukrainian inhabitants was contributing to a rising variety of cultural facilities, providers and occasions targeted on that neighborhood.
Perceptions from these outdoors the Ukrainian neighborhood are additionally altering, she stated.
“Before when you said you were Ukrainian they would tell you, ‘My grandma’s helper is also Ukrainian,’” Ms. Sorina stated. “Now they look at you with respect.”
