Spring in Our Hands: A Women's Day Workshop at the Ukrainian Centre
On March 9th, the Ukrainian Centre in Pärnu blossomed with the scent of fresh flowers, warm smiles, and a deep sense of feminine connection. Just a day after International Women’s Day, the space hosted an emotional and inspiring workshop, uniting women through beauty, creativity, and the gentle spirit of spring.
At the heart of the event was the creation of personal flower bouquets — a chance to step into the role of a florist and design an arrangement reflecting each woman’s inner world. It became a meditative journey of expressing feelings, memories, and hope through petals.
Each bouquet stood as a quiet portrait of its maker. Surrounded by warmth and encouragement, it wasn’t just flowers that bloomed — spring came alive in their hearts.
More photos from the event can be viewed on the official website of the Ukrainian Centre in the Gallery
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19.04.2025Easter in Pärnu: Songs, Children, and the Warmth of the Ukrainian Spirit
Read moreOn April 19, 2025, the Ukrainian Center in Pärnu became a vibrant hub of Easter joy, warmth, and unity. Spring light poured in alongside kind smiles, warm embraces, and children’s laughter. This year’s celebration felt deeply meaningful — every word and gesture reflected love for tradition and a heartfelt desire to be together, even far from home.
A special highlight of the day was the performance by the musical group Dzherelo and the children’s ensemble Dzhereltse. Their songs — tender, sincere, deeply Ukrainian — touched the hearts of all who listened. The children sang with warmth and belief, bringing smiles and hope to every face. Dzherelo offered strength and dignity through music that carried the weight of memory and resilience.
The celebration brought people together — children painted Easter eggs with joy, sharing colors and laughter. Adults supported, photographed, and connected. The heartfelt atmosphere showed clearly: the Ukrainian community in Pärnu is alive, strong, and united.
📸 See the full photo gallery here
13.03.2025Ukrainian Center Attended the Presentation of the Book "Lihtne eesti keel" by Helena Metslang
Read moreOn March 13, 2025, representatives of the Ukrainian Center in Pärnu attended the presentation of the book Lihtne eesti keel by Helena Metslang. The event, dedicated to the concept of "simplified Estonian language," took place in a welcoming atmosphere and attracted a diverse audience, including linguists, educators, students, and anyone interested in learning Estonian as a foreign language.
Key Topics of the Presentation
The author, Helena Metslang, provided a detailed explanation of why standard language programs designed for native speakers can be challenging for foreign learners. She emphasized the importance of using "simplified language" (lihtne keel), which enhances comprehension and accelerates the acquisition of new vocabulary and grammar.
During the presentation, the following topics were discussed:
- The experiences of foreigners learning Estonian and the main challenges they face;
- The fundamental principles of "simplified language" and its scientific justification;
- Practical methods for adapting educational programs for language students;
- The use of technology and artificial intelligence for automatic text simplification.
Why Is Lihtne eesti keel Important?
One of the central ideas of the event was that complex language can slow down the learning process, create cognitive overload, and decrease students' motivation. For this reason, the author proposes a methodology for adapting texts and educational materials to make them more accessible without losing essential meaning.
Significant attention was also given to the integrative function of "simplified language"—it not only benefits foreign students but also supports individuals with special needs who may struggle with understanding complex texts. This approach fosters greater social inclusion and improves access to information.
The Ukrainian Center in Pärnu expresses gratitude to the event organizers and highlights the importance of such initiatives for those learning Estonian. We firmly believe that the knowledge gained will be beneficial for Ukrainian-speaking residents integrating into Estonian society and striving to master the local language more effectively.
We are already exploring the possibility of incorporating "simplified language" principles into our own language courses and adapting educational materials based on Helena Metslang’s methodology.
Conclusion
The presentation of the book Lihtne eesti keel was a significant event for everyone involved in language education and integration. The methodology of language simplification not only facilitates learning but also fosters a deeper understanding of Estonia’s culture and society. The Ukrainian Center in Pärnu highly values Helena Metslang’s contribution to language education and looks forward to further research and the implementation of similar approaches in practice.
24.02.2025February 24 – A Day That Unites Memory and Freedom
Read moreFebruary 24 is a date forever engraved in the history of two nations. For the Estonian people, this day symbolizes the restoration of independence and pride in their country. For Ukrainians, it marks the anniversary of the full-scale invasion that changed everything. This day combines the joy of freedom and the bitterness of struggle, giving even greater meaning to the words “independence” and “resilience.”
Three years of struggle. Three years of resilience. Ukraine continues to resist, defending its land and future. Over these years, everyone has become stronger, more enduring, and more united. Ukrainians have learned to live under sirens, work without electricity, and support each other even in the darkest times. We have seen pain and loss, but we have also seen strength – in volunteers, in soldiers, in people who, despite everything, build, create, and dream of the future.
This day is not about fear. It is a day of remembrance, gratitude, and faith. Remembrance of those who are no longer with us. Gratitude to those who fight and work for victory.
On February 22, in the Estonian city of Pärnu, the Ukrainian Center organized a march to Freedom Square to commemorate the fallen and light candles in their memory. It was a moment of unity, where people were brought together by a shared desire for freedom. Ukrainians and Estonians understand the true price of independence – it is achieved through great struggle and the blood of the best sons and daughters.
Today, we congratulate the Estonian people on their Independence Day. Your history of struggle is inspiring, and your support gives us strength. Together, we will prove that freedom always prevails. Glory to Ukraine! Elagu Eesti!