The Ukrainian community around the world is mourning the loss of a tireless advocate and leader, Stefan Romaniw. Mr. Romaniw, the First Vice President of the Ukrainian World Congress (UWC), passed away unexpectedly on June 26, 2024, at the age of 68.

His death, which occurred during a public trip to Warsaw, Poland, has been met with an outpouring of grief and tributes.

A Life Dedicated to Ukraine

Born in Ukraine on November 12, 1955, Stefan Romaniw later immigrated to Australia. There, he became a prominent figure within the Ukrainian diaspora, actively involved in organizations dedicated to preserving Ukrainian culture and advocating for Ukraine’s interests on the world stage.

His dedication extended far beyond his adopted home. Mr. Romaniw served as the Co-chair of the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations and held leadership positions in other important organizations, including the Organisation of Ukrainian Nationalists (OUN) and the Ukrainian Youth Association (CYM).

Tireless Work for Ukrainian Recognition

Stefan Romaniw’s legacy is deeply intertwined with his unwavering commitment to Ukraine. A respected leader within the UWC, he played a pivotal role in promoting international recognition of Ukraine’s struggles.

One of his most significant contributions was advocating for the global recognition of the Holodomor, a devastating famine that caused millions of Ukrainian deaths in the 1930s. His efforts helped ensure this dark chapter in Ukrainian history wouldn’t be forgotten.

Uniting the Ukrainian Diaspora

Beyond international recognition, Mr. Romaniw was passionate about fostering unity within the global Ukrainian community. He believed that a strong and united diaspora was essential for supporting Ukraine’s future.

His leadership at the UWC, particularly his work organizing and chairing the 2024 UWC Summit in Bucharest, exemplified this commitment to unity. He brought together Ukrainians from around the world to strategize and collaborate on issues of importance to their shared heritage.

A Legacy of Service and Inspiration

The tributes pouring in from across the globe paint a picture of a man deeply respected for his dedication, integrity, and unwavering passion for Ukraine. The Ukrainian Foreign Ministry called him a “legendary man” whose work in uniting Ukrainians would forever be a role model.

The UWC, in its official statement, described Mr. Romaniw as “a revered son of Ukraine” and a “faithful husband, father, grandfather, and a cherished friend to Ukrainians worldwide.” They highlighted his immense contributions to supporting Ukraine, fostering the development of the global Ukrainian community, and skillfully leading discussions on critical issues.

A Loss Felt by Many

Stefan Romaniw’s sudden passing leaves a void within the Ukrainian community. His leadership, unwavering spirit, and dedication to his cause will be deeply missed.

However, his legacy lives on. He leaves behind a record of service, a testament to the power of unity, and an inspiration for future generations of Ukrainians to continue advocating for their homeland.

Beyond the Headlines: Remembering Stefan Romaniw

While news articles provide a valuable overview of Mr. Romaniw’s accomplishments, they can’t capture the full essence of the man. Here are some additional ways to remember him:

• Learn about his work: Explore the websites of the UWC and other organizations he was involved with.
• Share your stories: Did you know Stefan Romaniw personally? Share your experiences and memories online or with fellow Ukrainians.
• Continue his work: Get involved with Ukrainian organizations in your community or support causes close to Stefan Romaniw’s heart.

By remembering Stefan Romaniw and the values he embodied, we can ensure his legacy of service and dedication to Ukraine continues to inspire future generations.