Honouring Our Past, Shaping Tomorrow
Who we are
The Ukrainian Women’s Association Victoria (UWAV) is the leading Ukrainian women's organization in the state of Victoria, Australia. We are proud to be part of the Ukrainian Women's Association of Australia (UWAA) and the World Federation of Ukrainian Women's Organizations (WFUWO). For over 75 years, our association has united women of all generations around the mission of preserving Ukrainian cultural heritage, supporting community wellbeing, and empowering women as leaders.
On 18 December 1949, inspired by the call of Iryna Pelenska from the World Federation of Ukrainian Women’s Organizations, a group of passionate women, led by Olha Fytio, Maria Osidach, Sofiya Stebnytska, and Natalia Davyda, gathered for the founding meeting of what would become the Ukrainian Women’s Association in Victoria.
Their very first event – a traditional Ukrainian Christmas Eve (Sviat Vechir) for 200 participants – set the tone for decades of cultural preservation and community spirit.
The Ukrainian Women's Association Victoria has a proud and inspiring history that began soon after the arrival of post-war Ukrainian migrants to Australia. Many Ukrainian families, having left European refugee camps, settled in Melbourne and its surroundings. Driven by a deep sense of identity and community, Ukrainian women quickly began to establish organized community life.
To preserve and promote Ukrainian culture, traditions, and language.
To support women's leadership and active civic engagement.
To organize charitable initiatives and stand in solidarity with Ukraine.
To strengthen ties between Ukrainian communities in Australia and worldwide.
To cooperate with international organizations and contribute to humanitarian efforts.
Our Mission
Currently, UWAV comprises 5 active departments dedicated to various aspects of our mission and community engagement.
Today, the Ukrainian Women’s Association Victoria continues to:
Celebrate and safeguard Ukrainian traditions.
Organize cultural events, social gatherings, and educational programs.
Support new Ukrainian migrants and the Ukrainian community in Australia.
Lead humanitarian and and fundraising efforts for Ukraine.
Build bridges with Australian communities and international partners.
At the Extraordinary State Assembly of UWAA – Victoria (15 July 2023), Natalia Poshyvailo-Towler was elected as the new head of the Victorian branch, continuing the legacy of leadership, community service, and cultural resilience.
For more than seven decades, UWAV has been a cornerstone of Ukrainian life in Victoria — a place where women lead, generations connect, and Ukraine’s spirit lives on.
Together, we shape the future and stand with Ukraine.
Contact us
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