THE HEART OF UKRAINE ON THE CÔTE D’AZUR

Charity Brunch in Support of the “Children of the Future” Project

On June 22, the picturesque hills of the Côte d’Azur echoed with compassion and solidarity as an elegant Provençal vineyard hosted an unforgettable charity brunch in support of Ukraine’s “Children of the Future” project.

Photographer: Alexander Bazhenov

Initiated by Irina Kamara, the program has become a lifeline for Ukrainian children who have lost one or both parents in the war or whose loved ones are currently serving on the frontlines. Each summer, with the help of Irina and her dedicated team, a group of children is invited to the South of France for ten days of rest, healing, and hope.

At the heart of the event was Julia Pugach, founder of LOVIT Beauty & LOVIT Aesthetic Center, a prominent figure on the French Riviera known for her beauty expertise, philanthropy, and tireless volunteer efforts. Julia has created over 15 jobs for Ukrainian women in her salons and has been a pillar of support for her homeland since the earliest days of the war. In recognition of her efforts, she was awarded the Order of Merit by Valerii Zaluzhnyi, former Commander-in-Chief of Ukraine’s Armed Forces and current ambassador to the UK.

Photographer: Alexander Bazhenov

Themed “The Côte d’Azur in Ukrainian Style,” the brunch masterfully blended French elegance with Ukrainian soul. Guests — just over fifty in number — were welcomed to a Cossack-style table featuring lovingly prepared Ukrainian specialties: traditional spreads, fresh salo, artisanal liqueurs, and delicacies flown in especially from Ukraine. The menu was curated and prepared by Olga Dovzik, founder of Event Côte d’Azur, whose passion and heart were present in every dish.

Adding a deeply emotional layer to the event were singer Nina Shchurpata and host Yura Nadezhny, who both generously volunteered their time. Nina’s soulful Ukrainian ballads resonated across the vineyard, while Yura led the evening’s charity auction with warmth, charisma, and humor — elevating the event’s spirit and drawing joyful engagement from the crowd.

None of the participants — not the chefs, servers, decorators, or performers — received payment. Every contribution was made in the spirit of unity and purpose, giving the brunch a rare, heartfelt authenticity.

Photographer: Alexander Bazhenov

The auction featured a curated selection of symbolic and exceptional lots:

• Portrait of the Sea, a moving original by celebrated French artist Noemie Baumann
• An exclusive “Five Elements” dinner experience by culinary coach Anastasia Bessarab
• A handcrafted jewel from LOVIT Jewelry, a tribute to feminine strength and beauty
• Two rare 6-liter bottles of 2022 vintage wine, donated by the vineyard’s owner — a year marked by resilience and sorrow
• A luxurious silk art shawl by Tatyana Ramus, Ukrainian media icon and activist

Every euro raised went directly to support the Children of the Future. Thanks to the generosity of the guests and donors, the event raised €15,000, which will go directly toward helping Ukrainian children affected by war — providing them with safety, care, and a chance to dream again.

Photographer: Alexander Bazhenov

The brunch received official commendations from local authorities, including letters of gratitude from the mayor’s office, praising the event’s purpose, level of organization, and cultural resonance.

This charity brunch was not just a fundraiser.
It was a symbol.
A moment where elegance met empathy, where the heart of Ukraine beat on the Riviera, and where guests were reminded of the quiet power of community.

The Côte d’Azur has never seen an event with such heart.

Photographer: Alexander Bazhenov