Diane Evans, whose father was Ukrainian, tracked down her relatives near Lviv in Western Ukraine just two-and-a-half years ago. Since then she's met them for the first time and been in frequent contact.
When Russian forces invaded Ukraine she wanted to help the Ukrainian people and refugees fleeing the war. Over just two days her business, Evans Lee, collected over £100,000-worth of donations of medicines and bandages, bottled water, canned food, toiletries, baby milk and food, and good quality clothing.
Then with the help of volunteers and businesses which gave the use of warehouses, vehicles, staff time and more, Diane organised, boxed and packed the donations. The goods have been transported to the Polish border and distributed to Ukrainian refugees.
Diane joins me to discuss how she searched for and found her family members in Ukraine; the donation drive and being overwhelmed by the generosity of people and businesses; other ways to support the Ukrainian people, including by offering accommodation; and the Help Ukraine Emergency Appeal and The Association of Ukrainians in Great Britain, which is working with accredited and registered Ukrainian charities to provide medicines, food and critical services.
We also talk a little about housing and running a family business – Evans Lee has been established for 9 years – with Diane's top tips about the "small little bits that make a difference."
Also in this, episode 364 of Business Live: if you're an extraordinary business leader, creating social change, then a £10,000 award from the Cambridge Social Innovation Prize could be a game-changer for you. We have details about how to apply (deadline 8 April).
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