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There is a unique magic that happens when community, culture, and nature intertwine. On Saturday 16 May, Morgan Jones Park in Caerphilly became the stage for this exact synergy during Ffair Cynefin (Nature Fair). Co-hosted by Climate Action Caerphilly, Thriving Communities CIC, and a wonderful collective of Ukrainian artists and musicians, the day was a vibrant proof of a beautiful truth: Nature is for everyone — Mae’r natur i bawb!

The park was completely transformed into a buzzing hub of life. From the laughter of children hunting for bugs in the Tiny Forest and families planting wildflowers, to local conservation stalls and heritage experiences, the atmosphere was alive with joy. Visitors ambiently drifted between live musical performances, face painting, and well-being activities, discovering that environmental action doesn’t have to be clinical or intimidating—it can be celebratory, inclusive, and deeply cultural.

Highlights of the Ffair Cynefin

A Space for the Soul to Breathe

Every now and then, each of us needs a special space for self-expression—a place to share the treasures nurtured within our souls, whether through art, creativity, or a profound love for nature that calls for action and the passing of wisdom to future generations. It is truly wonderful when such hubs are created through the initiative and devotion of passionate individuals who love what they do.

For the creative Ukrainian community now living in Wales, Ffair Cynefin represented something far deeper than just a day out. Integrating into the Welsh socio-cultural fabric is a deeply meaningful milestone. Our talents are finding their admirers here, and the very atmosphere of the event thrives on mutual understanding, support, and friendship.

Ukrainian poet, musician, co-organizer of the event Kostiantyn Kozlov and Ukrainian artist Nonna Davydenko

Art-works of Ukrainian artists and craftsmen

Ukrainian singer Uliana Gulvanska and Ukrainian artist, co-organizer of Fair Olesia Miftahova

Ukrainian artist Tetiana Rud (center)

Art-works of Ukrainian artisan Olena Ponomarenko

Ukrainian artist Pavlo Gulevatyi

Ukrainian singer Lietta (Iuliia Bubiakina)

Ukrainian artisan Olena Ponomarenko

Ukrainian artists and craftsmen: Oksana Frolova, Olesia Miftahova, Olena Ponomarenko, Nonna Davydenko

Ukrainian singer Uliana Gulvanska and Ukrainian artist Pavlo Gulevatyi

Art-works of Ukrainian artists

This synergy leaves us with a sense of profound fulfillment, belonging, and inspiration for new endeavors. We owe an immense debt of gratitude to the main organiser of the event — Climate Action Caerphilly, particularly Lynn Gazal and Ageliki Politis, as well as all active representatives of the partnering organisations who poured their hearts into making this happen.

Blossoming Together at the “Garden of Gratitude”

The choice of location carried a profound, symbolic weight. The fair unfolded just a stone’s throw away from the “Garden of Gratitude”—a living, growing tribute planted by Ukrainians as a thank-you to the Welsh people. This sacred corner of Morgan Jones Park has been flourishing for two consecutive years, carefully tended by the tireless hands of Climate Action Caerphilly.

For our displaced community, the fair was a beautiful opportunity to gather once more and rejoice in the trees and flowers that have successfully taken root and will, we believe, bear fruit in time. Most importantly, it reminded us how vital it is for newcomers to grow new roots in a new land through open dialogue with the local community, which never ceases to warm us with its sincerity and hospitality.

Ukrainian “Garden of Gratitude and Memory” in Morgan Jones Park (Caerphilly)

A Growing Movement

Ffair Cynefin beautifully demonstrated that looking after our planet and looking after each other are two sides of the same coin. As a spokesperson for Climate Action Caerphilly perfectly captured: “Ffair Cynefin was about celebrating the idea that nature belongs to everyone. It was wonderful to see people of all ages coming together through music, wildlife, wellbeing, and creativity.”

A massive thank you to everyone who made this day possible, from the local council and Councillor James Pritchard to the incredible local groups and contributors: Morgan Jones Community Allotments, Caerphilly Woodlands Trust, National Forest for Wales (NRW), Caerphilly Hedgehog Rescue, Matt Dey Face Painting, Draigwen Honey – Cardiff Beekeepers Association, Asylum Brain Stores, and Awenra Pathways. We also extend our gratitude to Alexis Celnik from the Green Party for sharing information about the National Emergency Briefing. Finally, this celebration would not have been complete without the inspiring presence and immense dedication of the talented artists and musicians from the Ukrainian community, including Uliana Gulvanska, Nonna Davydenko, Olena Ponomarenko, Nataliia Zabolotska, Pavlo Gulevatyi, Tetiana Rud, Oksana Frolova, Lietta (Iuliia Bubiakina). And Olesia Miftahova and Kostiantyn Kozlov – who were also co-organisers of the event.

Ageliki Politis (Climate Action Caerphilly)

Lynn Gazal (Climate Action Caerphilly)

National Forest for Wales (NRW)

Draigwen Honey – Cardiff Beekeepers Association

Thriving Communities CIC

Caerphilly Woodlands Trust

Caerphilly Hedgehog Rescue

Climate Action Caerphilly and Caerphilly Woodlands Trust

Councillor James Pritchard

Matt Dey Face Painting

As the trees in the Garden of Gratitude continue to stretch their branches toward the Welsh sky, so too do the bonds between our communities. Ffair Cynefin reminded us that when we protect nature, we create a sanctuary where everyone, no matter where they come from, can find a place to belong, to heal, and to grow.

🌱 Nature is for everyone. | 🌱 Mae’r natur i bawb.

By Dariia Zhdanova for Ukrainians in Wales.