In Ukraine, you might abandon your shopping trolley mid-payment when air raid sirens sound.
The episode begins with the host playing 'Stefania' by Kalush Orchestra, Ukraine's Eurovision 2022 entry, to set the context. Willem van Kolff, a South African residing in Ukraine, joins the show. He explains he has been involved in Ukraine since 1955, meeting a woman and having children there. Willem describes his humanitarian work, assisting people with problems like extremists and helping those fleeing. He states that nearly 7 million Ukrainians are abroad and 3.7 million are internally displaced, totaling over 10 million people who have lost homes. Willem notes that many may never return, with families torn apart. He characterizes Ukrainians as open, kind, and freedom-seeking people. Before the war, social life was vibrant, with late-night coffee visits. Willem shares an anecdote about an old man who finds Ukraine safer than South Africa. He is currently in South Africa but plans to return to Ukraine via Germany, driving to Vinnytsia in central Ukraine. His family in South Africa is aware of the daily sirens but accustomed to his travels. Willem details daily life in Ukraine, where shops and schools operate but close during sirens, forcing people to abandon activities. He mentions using an app to track missile threats. In occupied areas, people no longer use Ukrainian currency or products. Willem serves a community in Ukraine, providing online support from South Africa and in-person visits with supplies like care packs and cloths. He counsels children who become hysterical from war sounds and supports soldiers and those who have lost limbs. The episode ends with the host thanking Willem and urging safety.
