Our STORY

The story of ProUA Hub began with an earlier community initiative created and led by dedicated volunteers — among them, our founding members.
From the very start, we worked together to organise events, support the Ukrainian community, and build meaningful connections across Glasgow, beginning in March, 2025.

Over time, the group evolved, and some members chose to register a separate organisation under the original name.
Our founding team — having played a key role in the early development and activities — decided to continue this community work independently, establishing a new chapter as ProUA Hub.

We are proud of our shared beginnings and remain deeply committed to the same mission: to support integration, empowerment, and wellbeing within our community.

Our TEAM

My name is Nataliia Parkhomei. Creating this hub alongside our community was born from a simple yet profound idea: to support fellow Ukrainians, celebrate our rich culture, and build lasting bridges with the local community.

To me, ProUA Hub is more than just an organization—it is a sanctuary of hope, kindness, and collective growth. Every project we undertake—whether it’s our ESOL classes, creative art initiatives, or food delivery services—is a reflection of our core belief: we are stronger together.

I truly believe that even the smallest actions—learning a new word, painting a mural, or sharing a meal—have the power to transform lives and help people feel truly at home.

"Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much." — Helen Keller

This quote inspires me every single day. ProUA Hub is living proof of what can be achieved when people unite with open hearts.

Olha Stepaniuk is a firm believer in the immense potential of the Ukrainian community in Glasgow and beyond.

Recognising their high levels of education, renowned work ethic, and proven problem-solving capabilities, Olha views the Ukrainian community as an invaluable asset. She envisions this collective potential contributing significantly to the development of Glasgow’s society, fostering an environment where all residents can thrive and prosper.

Olha brings a wealth of experience in project management and implementation, honed through a distinguished career within the Ukrainian government and state-owned enterprises. She holds two academic degrees in Computer Science, specialising in complex computer systems and software engineering.

Today, Olha is dedicated to leveraging her extensive expertise to empower both Ukrainians and the wider Glasgow community. Her mission is to help residents unlock their full potential and achieve their ambitions, creating a lasting positive impact on the city of Glasgow.

Shawn Nicholas Fernandez is a dedicated Community Learning and Development practitioner and an experienced community development worker with a strong record of impactful grassroots engagement. With a professional background as a former police officer and over five years of experience in community development, he has led and supported initiatives across Glasgow that promote unity, inclusion, and empowerment.

In addition to his development work, Shawn is a practising Basic English volunteer tutor, supporting learners to build confidence in communication, strengthen language skills, and engage more fully in their communities. He is particularly passionate about equipping individuals with practical knowledge that enhances both personal growth and community wellbeing.

Shawn has also delivered initiatives such as Cybercrime Awareness and Prevention Workshops, helping to protect vulnerable groups from online scams while increasing digital confidence and safety awareness. He is widely recognised for his ability to bring diverse groups together and foster meaningful collaboration.

His commitment has earned significant recognition, including Volunteer of the Year at the SCVO Scottish Charity Awards in 2021, a Certificate of Commendation from the UK Parliament in 2020, and being shortlisted as a finalist in the Education category at the CEMVO Ethnic Minority Impact Awards in 2019.

He holds an HNC in Community Development from Glasgow Kelvin College and is currently pursuing a BA in Community Development at the University of Glasgow. Through his ongoing work, Shawn remains committed to building safer, more inclusive, and connected communities, guided by a vision of breaking barriers and fostering equality for all.