Yevheniia Rizina, known as Jane by her colleagues and loved ones, is the winner for Volunteer of the Year at the Cardiff Volunteer Awards 2025!
Originally from Krivoy Rog, Ukraine, Jane is a trained economist who arrived in Wales as a refugee with her mum and two cats. She has become a vital part of the Ukrainian Hub community, volunteering tirelessly while studying accountancy at Cardiff and Vale College to build a new life and future in Wales.
Jane’s dedication has touched the lives of more than 900 refugees across Cardiff. Through her thoughtful coordination of the Ukrainian Hub’s activities, she provides comfort, connection, and opportunity for people rebuilding their lives after unimaginable upheaval. Her ability to bring people together, locals and newcomers alike has made the hub a true home for so many.
Jane works closely with Cardiff Council, charities, and other community groups to ensure refugees can access housing, education, healthcare, and employment support. She fosters partnerships across public, private, and voluntary sectors, uniting people with a shared purpose of care and inclusion. Her management of National Lottery funding guarantees the hub’s financial stability, while her organisation of 16+ hours of weekly events, Fan Speaking Club, cultural events, and children’s activities creates lasting impact.
Jane’s leadership has strengthened community wellbeing and built bridges of understanding with local Welsh communities. Her generosity of spirit and commitment to collaboration continue to enrich Cardiff’s diverse and compassionate community.
We would like to offer our gratitude to Jane as we congratulate her on this wonderful milestone and for being such a huge asset to her community and everyone around her. We look forward to hearing more about your progress and journey in years to come – keep it up!
C3SC is the umbrella charity for the voluntary sector in Cardiff. We provide information and advice to volunteers and not-for-profit groups and opportunities to network, learn and exchange ideas. Please get in touch with us – email volunteer@c3sc.org.uk if you’d like to express an interest in starting or continuing your volunteering journey – we’d be happy to help!
