Galina Kirichenko: “We never imagined that ‘Borscht Days’ would grow into a large-scale festival attracting millions”
2026-06-19
How 50 litres of borscht for evacuated families turned into one of the largest charity festivals for Ukrainians in Poland – this was recounted by Halyna Kirichenko, founder of the Gremi Foundation and vice-president of the international recruitment company Gremi Personal, in an in-depth interview with inPoland.net.pl.
Over four seasons, Gremi Borscht Fest has grown to 31 festivals across Polish cities. Total funds raised amount to 4.6 million zlotys, and last season the events were attended by around 125,000 people. 100 per cent of all funds raised go towards supporting the Ukrainian Armed Forces – the current priorities are FPV drones and electronic warfare systems. In 2026, the festival’s format changed: instead of a tour of smaller towns, there will be two major events in Warsaw and Kraków.
The Consulate General of Ukraine has granted patronage to the Kraków festival. Further information is available on the inpoland.net.pl website
Hot vacancies