At People in Peril, we believe supporting women and girls is incredibly important. In our regional Clubhouses across Slovakia, we create safe spaces where women and girls can find refuge, understanding, and support. We assist with education and employment opportunities, but we also know that building a strong community where women can help each other, share their problems, and encourage one another is equally vital. Singing is a wonderful way to strengthen interpersonal bonds.
From Slovak Language to Choir
Like many Slovak towns, Bardejov became a temporary refuge for numerous Ukrainian women and children after the outbreak of the war. As part of our efforts to help them integrate into society, we also provide Slovak language lessons. During one of the classes, a group of women learned the lyrics of "Silent Night" so they could sing it during the Christmas season. This inspired them to sing Ukrainian songs as well, and the idea of forming a choir was born. They named themselves Berehyne, after the Ukrainian goddess of life and protection. Her statue stands atop the Independence Monument in the center of Kyiv.
Women Find Safety and Support in Clubhouses
The number of choir members varies; some women leave after a while, others join. One member is Olena, a blind woman who came to Slovakia with her daughter, who is also nearly blind. She praises the supportive atmosphere in the Clubhouse, as do our colleagues Paula and Janka, who assist her with her disability:
"I am so glad I met all these women here. It’s sad I have to leave soon. My daughter started studying in Levoča in September, where there is a school for the blind. I’ll go there with her once I find accommodation. It will be hard to leave, as I’ve already settled in Bardejov. I know the area, I have a cane, I can go shopping alone, and people know me. But I have no other choice."
Sometimes, the women are accompanied by Ukrainian pianist Olena or Yuri, who recorded backing tracks on a computer in our Clubhouse, so they can sing whenever they wish. They have already performed at local events, such as at a senior day care center. We are delighted to foster connections between different communities in this way.
For women from Ukraine, singing is not only a source of joy but also an opportunity to remember the home they had to leave because of the war.
Support the operation and activities of regional Clubhouses through the Real Gift Clubhouse.
You can also support aid programs focused on empowering women and girls in Slovakia with the Real Gift Women’s Power.
Thank you.
