Svita Chernetska

Svita Chernetska, a fashion stylist, buyer and boutique owner in her native Ukraine found her perfect volunteering role as a retail volunteer in Chest, Heart & Stroke Scotland’s charity boutique in Bothwell. She shares why giving back to the community is so important to her. Shortly after arriving, she made it her mission to give back to the country that was supporting her in her time of need.

She said; “As soon as I arrived in Scotland, I wanted to be useful, to get out and meet people and learn the language, as well as giving back to the country that was supporting me in a difficult time. “I began looking for volunteering roles, and was very lucky to find one in CHSS boutique in Bothwell when I walked past the store and saw an appeal for volunteers in the window. “It is such a beautiful shop. I was so pleased to be able to start volunteering here and putting my skills to good use. Svita’s role in the store includes styling mannequins, creating window displays, as well as advising customers on their style choices. When she is not volunteering in the store, Svita attends various college courses, including English language.

Svita commented; “I volunteer in the store twice a week. The staff and volunteers are so lovely. They make me feel welcome and it has been so good for helping me with my English. “The shop is so busy. I love that people in Scotland are excited by buying second hand and upcycling. This is something I was very keen on encouraging people to do back home in Ukraine. Svita arrived in Scotland without friends or family. She lives with a number of other Ukrainian refugees in Strathclyde Park who are currently awaiting permanent housing.“When I left Ukraine, I had to leave everything behind. I felt alone. Volunteering with CHSS has allowed me to give something back, but has also given me something too. I feel part of the community, which makes me feel good.”