Ballyhoura Development CLG has been awarded funding under the Department of Foreign Affairs’ 2025 Communicating Europe Initiative to deliver a documentary project highlighting the vital role of the European Union in supporting the integration of Ukrainian refugees in rural Ireland.
This year’s project builds on Ireland’s ongoing commitment to the European values of solidarity, inclusion, and community resilience.
Through “The EU as a Catalyst for Change: Ballyhoura Development’s Support for the Ukrainian Community,” the documentary showcases how EU-supported programmes — particularly the Social Inclusion and Community Activation Programme (SICAP) — empower local organisations to respond effectively to emerging community needs.
To bring this project to life, Ballyhoura Development collaborated with filmmaker Brian O’Keeffe, adopting a community-led storytelling approach. The film features the voices of newly arrived Ukrainians, long-standing local residents, volunteers, Ballyhoura Development staff, and partner organisations. Together, they offer an honest and grounded insight into the lived experience of integration across the region.
Filmed across Charleville, Kilmallock, Bruff, and surrounding communities, the documentary reflects the realities of people navigating displacement, building new connections, learning English, launching businesses, volunteering locally, and finding a sense of belonging in rural Ireland.
One of the entrepreneurs featured in the film, Veronika (Nika) Fender, CEO of Pink Rabbit Marketing, shared:
“For me, this documentary is a reminder that supporting one another makes us stronger than any circumstances. And if you have a dream, it is always worth fighting for until the very end.”
The project places strong value on firsthand experiences, ensuring that community members shape and guide the narrative. It highlights the collaborative efforts of groups such as Tidy Towns Committees, Family Resource Centres, libraries, Volunteer Centres, Fáilte Isteach, and the Irish Red Cross — demonstrating how EU-supported local action can transform lives and strengthen community bonds.
Reflecting on the project, Karyna Airapetova noted:
“This documentary captures the courage of newcomers and the kindness of communities. It shows how EU support helps people rebuild their lives and how rural Ireland has opened its doors with incredible generosity.”
A series of public screenings will take place across North East Cork and East Limerick, providing community members with an opportunity to engage with the film, reflect on EU support in their region, and discuss the future of integration in rural Ireland.
The documentary, along with a collection of short video stories, will be shared through Ballyhoura Development’s digital channels.
This project was supported by the Communicating Europe Initiative through the Department of Foreign Affairs.
