Anna Frančuka, a professional choir conductor from Horoshiv, Ukraine, recounts the upheaval in her life after the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Living with her three-year-old daughter, she experienced a dramatic shift on February 24, when her daughter’s godmother called to alert them about the incoming war. Initially believing it would be a short conflict, the escalation of violence prompted Anna to seek refuge in Latvia for the safety of her daughter and herself.

In August 2022, Anna and her daughter made their way to Rēzekne, Latvia, where they found a supportive community through participating in local culture and arts, particularly through choirs. Singing has offered them a form of emotional release and connection amid the trauma they faced as refugees. The experience of integrating into Latvian society has highlighted for Anna the importance of finding joy in the small, everyday moments despite the ongoing war.

The story of Anna and other Ukrainian refugees like Natālija Behma emphasizes the resilience and adaptability of individuals in the face of dire circumstances. Their journey reflects not only their struggle for safety but also a deep appreciation for community bonds and cultural expressions in a new homeland, fostering hope and healing through art and collaboration.