East Acton Ukrainian resident Ela Czuruk joined Ukrainian designer Halyna Shunevych at Parliament after they were invited by Ealing Central and Acton MP Dr Rupa Huq to meet outgoing Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer and present him with a traditional embroidered shirt in recognition of the UK’s support for Ukraine.
The visit to the House of Commons came after Ms Czuruk contacted Dr Huq to let her know that her friend, Ms Shunevych, who creates and gifts embroidered shirts to world leaders in recognition of their support for Ukraine, would be travelling through Europe.
At the meeting earlier this month (1 July 2026), Ms Shunevych presented handmade vyshyvankas – traditional Ukrainian embroidered shirts – to both the Prime Minister and Dr Huq.
The presentation formed part of Ms Shunevych’s “Vyshyvanka for the President” project which thanks world leaders for supporting Ukraine. Previous recipients include former US President Joe Biden, French President Emmanuel Macron, Pope Leo XIV and former Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
Dr Huq said: “Keir’s always been a big hit with the Ukrainians of Acton, and my seat has a larger than average number. At the start of the conflict, he came and prayed amongst them at the church in Newton Ave W3. They are always asking when he’s coming back, so I took one of them to him armed with a gift!”
Ms Shunevych said: “Meeting the Prime Minister was a profound honour. I was grateful for the opportunity to personally thank him for the United Kingdom’s steadfast support for Ukraine and to present a Ukrainian embroidered shirt as a symbol of our cultural resilience.
“It was a meaningful moment that highlighted how art and heritage can build bridges even in the most challenging times. My project of gratitude aims to remind world leaders that their support truly matters – and I believe these gestures can inspire even stronger solidarity with Ukraine.”
Ms Czuruk, group lead volunteer of 1st Plast London, Ukrainian Scouting Organisation in Great Britain, added: “It was a privilege to meet the Prime Minister on 1 July to express our sincere gratitude for the UK’s steadfast support of Ukraine throughout Sir Keir Starmer’s two years at No.10.
“The Prime Minister reassured us that the UK’s support for Ukraine will only continue to grow and strengthen.”
