05/31/2026
Farewell and Thank You to UCAO President Natalia Lebedin
For us in Columbus and within the Ukrainian Cultural Association of Ohio, our truth has always been the sanctity of Ukraine. Its people, its history, its culture, and its borders are worth protecting and fighting for. Since the full-scale invasion began on February 24, 2022, that truth has been at the heart of everything we have done.
Through some of the hardest and most emotional years our community has ever experienced, Natalia Lebedin has been there to lead us. She brought us together when we felt helpless. She encouraged us to speak up when we felt unheard. She inspired us to do more than we ever thought possible.
Natalia rallied us to protest the injustice of the invasion, to advocate for critical military support, and to raise funds for lifesaving supplies for those defending Ukraine on the front lines. She reminded us that even in times of war, we must continue celebrating who we are through our music, traditions, language, and culture. She became our voice in conversations with city leaders, elected officials, and members of Congress. She built relationships across communities and organizations. She stepped into rooms and conversations many of us were afraid to enter, always carrying the cause of Ukraine with courage and conviction.
And somehow, through all of this, Natalia remained so much more than our president. She continued to be a devoted mother, a talented architect, a gifted singer and bandurist, and a wonderful friend. Anyone who knows Natalia knows her warmth, her generosity, her sense of humor, and her ability to make people feel welcome and valued. She has a way of bringing people together and making them believe they can make a difference.
There is a fire in Natalia that cannot be taught. There is a deep love for Ukraine and for her community that shines through everything she does. For the past four years, we have been incredibly fortunate to have her as our president. Her leadership challenged us, inspired us, and gave us hope. Because of her, our community became stronger, more active, and more united.
Now Natalia is beginning a new chapter in Montreal. While we are excited for her and all that lies ahead, it is impossible not to feel emotional about her leaving. Leaders come and go, but some leave a mark that lasts forever. Natalia is one of those people.
Thank you, Natalia, for every hour you gave, every challenge you accepted, every conversation you had on behalf of our community, and every time you reminded us why this work matters. Thank you for believing in us, even when we did not always believe in ourselves.
You have shown us what is possible when one person leads with courage, heart, and purpose. We will miss you dearly, but your impact on this community will remain for years to come.
We wish you nothing but happiness, success, and fulfillment in Montreal. No matter where life takes you, you will always have a family here in Columbus. 🇺🇦💙💛
