Magic in Times of Need: Our Seventh Journey to the Ukraine – First half of the trip done.

We’re writing to you from the heart of our seventh mission to the Ukraine by way of Poland, and the experiences we’ve shared over the past week have been nothing short of transformative.

Our journey has taken us through two countries united by resilience and hope. In Lublin, Poland, we performed for Homo Faber, an incredible organization dedicated to empowering Ukrainian refugees through essential skills training—from public speaking to English language learning. Witnessing the strength and determination of these individuals as they rebuild their lives has been deeply moving.

Crossing into Kyiv, Ukraine, we’ve been privileged to share magic in spaces where it’s needed most. At World School, we not only performed but also conducted workshops with three different grades, watching young faces light up with wonder despite the challenges they face daily.

Perhaps our most profound experience came at the pediatric oncology ward, where we performed for both the dedicated nursing staff and brave children undergoing intensive cancer treatment. The joy and laughter we witnessed in that healing space reminded us why we do this work.

Our performances also included a special show at “Our Kids” orphanage, celebrating Ukraine’s National Day of Child Protection—a day that holds deep significance as these children represent the future of their nation.

Throughout this journey, we’ve been supported by an extraordinary local teacher whose dedication has made most of our performances possible. Her commitment to bringing moments of joy to her community exemplifies the spirit of collaboration that makes our mission successful.

One of the most touching moments came when a student at World School presented us with a unique gift: a beautifully hand-painted spent riffle cartridge, created by his aunt a soldier fighting in the front lines. And he said: “she sent it to me and said I love you, stay brave”. This gift embodies the remarkable ability to create beauty and love from the ashes of destruction.

As we look ahead to the second half of our trip, we carry with us the faces of everyone we’ve met, the laughter we’ve shared, and the unbreakable human spirit we’ve witnessed. Every day here reinforces our immense gratitude to our donors, whose generosity makes these life-changing performances and connections possible.

Magic, we’ve learned, isn’t just about tricks and illusions—it’s about creating moments of hope, connection, and joy where they’re needed most.