The gathering brought together organizations and initiatives from around the world to discuss how to better support vulnerable communities.

Since Voice of Romni has unique experience working with the Roma community during the war in Ukraine, Anzhelika was invited to share our story.

Her speech was devoted to women’s leadership in times of crisis. Anzhelika spoke about her journey in humanitarian work, which began in 2020 as a small initiative in Zaporizhzhia with just four volunteers and has since grown into a strong organization of about fifty people supporting Roma communities in six regions of Ukraine. The full-scale invasion became both a challenge and a turning point that inspired Anzhelika to use her knowledge to help those in need. Since then, the Voice of Romni team has supported nearly 110,000 people through humanitarian aid, child-friendly spaces, youth programs, family camps, and advocacy for Roma rights at all levels.

She also highlighted the organization’s projects for women and girls, from professional retraining courses and beauty coworking spaces that help women achieve economic independence, to the Women Lead in Emergencies program, which strengthens the role of women as leaders in their communities during wartime. Anzhelika spoke as well about the organization’s work on psychological support, prevention of gender-based violence, and a pioneering study on gender practices in Roma communities, the first of its kind not only in Ukraine but across Europe.

The conference also featured stories of people who have received long-term and comprehensive support from Voice of Romni. For us, it was vital to give them space to speak, to let those directly affected share with international partners how this support has changed their lives.

Taking part in this conference was especially meaningful, as OlamAid has become our partner in creating the Protection and Inclusion Hive in Zaporizhzhia — a specially equipped shelter designed to support vulnerable groups. OlamAid is a charity with vast experience in helping people in crisis. Their humanitarian approach is rooted in inclusivity, acceptance, and respect for different cultures, traditions, and life experiences — values that form the basis of our partnership.

We are truly grateful for their trust and for the chance to make our voice heard alongside internationally recognized humanitarian organizations. Supporting vulnerable communities requires lasting partnerships and shared commitment — and together, we continue to build that foundation.