Last Friday, the Ukrainian House in Alicante witnessed a truly historic moment — the official premiere of “Amigos”, the first Ukrainian-language glossy magazine in Spain. More than just a publication, this launch event brought together friends, volunteers, creators, and everyone who shares a belief in the power of community, creativity, and cultural identity.
“Amigos” is not just a magazine. It’s a voice. A project born not from profit or commercial goals, but from necessity. In a region where over 40,000 Ukrainians currently reside, there was no high-quality, tangible, printed media that reflected who they are — until now.
The magazine is about people. About collaboration, trust, and the willingness to work together — without pay, without conditions — simply because it needed to exist. It’s a heartfelt response to the growing need for Ukrainian-language representation abroad.
How the Idea Was Born: A Glossy Voice for the Ukrainian Diaspora
Meeting a Real Social Need
Spain is home to one of the largest Ukrainian communities in Europe. Yet for years, most of the media serving these communities was limited to online forums, Telegram channels, or social media groups. There was a void — a need for something physical, tactile, and elegant. Something beautiful to flip through, reflect on, and share with family.
That’s how the idea for “Amigos” was born — not as another news outlet, but as a cultural sanctuary. A glossy, sophisticated, and deeply Ukrainian magazine that celebrates heritage while embracing European aesthetics.
A Response to the Identity Crisis of War
The 2022 full-scale invasion of Ukraine forced millions into exile. But along with passports and luggage, they brought their language, values, and cultural identity. For many, preserving that identity in a new land became a matter of emotional survival.
“Amigos” responds to this need. It isn’t just about headlines — it’s about heart. It offers a place to reconnect, remember, and reimagine what it means to be Ukrainian — even when far from home.
The Team Behind the Pages
Founders, Editors, and Visionaries
The magazine was founded by Anna Shkalenko, president of a Ukrainian association in Alicante. She gathered a powerful team of Ukrainian creatives, most of whom relocated to Spain due to the war. Together, they poured soul and skill into every page.
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Olha Cherkai – Editor-in-chief, orchestrating the entire creative vision.
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Yulia Tarasiuk – Editorial coordinator and text manager.
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Yulia Dibrovska-Chorna – Professional translator bridging the Ukrainian and Spanish narratives.
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Maksym Simanovych & Yaroslava Hromova – Photographers who bring humanity and emotion to every photo.
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Anastasiia Sarzhevska, Olha Sisne, Alina Derevyanko, and Nazarii Parkhomiuk – Writers contributing deeply personal and inspiring stories.
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@cbentivegna – Designer who turned ideas into an elegant visual identity.
The Power of Volunteering
What’s remarkable is that everyone involved worked as a volunteer. No one was paid. They all gave their time, skills, and hearts because they believed: this magazine had to exist. It was a way to transform pain into creation and exile into expression.
The Format & Concept of “Amigos”
What Sets It Apart
Unlike traditional news or diaspora newsletters, “Amigos” is a refined, artistic, and story-driven publication. There are no political scandals or clickbait — just meaningful narratives, beautiful visuals, and genuine emotion.
It is printed on high-quality glossy paper. The layout is modern and minimalist. Every issue feels like a coffee-table book, designed to be shared, gifted, and cherished.
Content That Bridges Cultures
Each issue is thematic. The first edition is centered around resilience, creativity, and cross-cultural unity.
Regular sections include:
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Exclusive interviews with Ukrainian artists and creatives.
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Coverage of cultural events in Spain.
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Essays and personal stories from the Ukrainian community.
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Visual arts, photography spreads, and bilingual content in Ukrainian and Spanish.
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Delicious Ukrainian recipes adapted with Spanish ingredients.
Who It’s For
Ukrainians in Spain
The primary audience is the Ukrainian community in Spain — from professionals and families to students and entrepreneurs. For many, “Amigos” offers a sense of belonging and representation. It’s something they can read with their children, show to friends, and proudly display in their business.
Spaniards Curious About Ukraine
Because of its bilingual nature, the magazine is also a powerful tool for cultural diplomacy. Spanish readers gain a deeper, more nuanced understanding of Ukraine — beyond the headlines. It fosters empathy, curiosity, and cross-cultural friendship.
Inside the First Issue
The Content
The cover — a bowl of Ukrainian borshch on a traditional embroidered cloth — says it all. It’s warm, welcoming, and bold. Inside, the issue features:
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“The Strength of an Indestructible People” — a reflection on Ukrainian resilience.
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“Kazimir Malevich: Ukrainian Genius” — a tribute to the revolutionary artist.
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“Cultures in Contact: Spain & Ukraine” — exploring architectural and emotional parallels.
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A detailed photo report from community events.
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Recipes, poetry, stories of integration and loss, and visual exhibitions.
The Valencia presentation also featured works by Irina Cheremishina (@irina.cheremisina.art) and articles by local contributors like Victoria Dergal, as well as researchers Yulia Horkovchuk and Kateryna Khvostenko, who are building a network of Ukrainian scientists in Spain.
The Reaction
The first print run sold out almost instantly. The magazine is now available at “Buklia” bookstore in Valencia, and two free copies are offered to any local Ukrainian-owned business.
The response? Emotional and overwhelming. People cried, shared, posted, and said: “Finally, something that feels like home.”
What’s Next for “Amigos”?
A Seasonal Vision
The team plans to release four issues per year, each with a unique seasonal theme:
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Autumn – Identity and reflection.
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Winter – Family, warmth, and memory.
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Spring – Rebirth, new voices, youth.
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Summer – Travel, unity, creativity.
The upcoming autumn edition will focus on “Rediscovered Voices” — the unheard, the unseen, and the unspoken stories of Ukrainians in Spain.
The Magazine as a Cultural Hub
Community Impact
“Amigos” is becoming more than a magazine — it’s a movement. Reading clubs, creative meetups, cultural talks, and school events are emerging across Alicante, Valencia, and Murcia. The magazine is becoming a hub where Ukrainians connect, collaborate, and grow.
Integration Through Culture
With high-quality translations and open dialogue, “Amigos” helps Ukrainians integrate without losing themselves. It’s a celebration of diversity and a model for respectful coexistence.
Support & Distribution
Sustainable Distribution Model
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Two free copies to local businesses (cafés, salons, offices).
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Personal copy available with a donation starting at 3€.
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Volunteer-driven. All contributions go toward printing future editions.
Sponsors of the first issue will be honored in a special social media post. The team operates transparently and with integrity — every euro supports the mission.
Behind the Scenes: How Each Issue Is Made
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Theme and structure are discussed by the editorial board.
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Writers pitch or receive assignments based on the issue’s focus.
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Editors shape the stories.
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Translators ensure bilingual consistency.
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Designers tie it all together with modern, clean aesthetics.
This is storytelling as co-creation, not hierarchy.
The Aesthetic of Ukraine
“Amigos” looks and feels like Ukraine. From embroidered patterns and traditional motifs to sharp, minimalist design — the visual identity is emotional, proud, and modern.
The visual tone is never flashy or cliché — it’s elegant, honest, and human.
A Journal for the Future
Teens are reading “Amigos”. Children are flipping through pages with their parents. Schools are inviting the team to speak. The next generation is being raised with this cultural confidence.
Future editions will include special youth sections, contests, and contributions from young creatives.
Ukrainian Diaspora Glossies: Why “Amigos” Is Unique
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Not funded by grants — powered by heart.
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Created by displaced Ukrainians — not distant media corporations.
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Bilingual, inclusive, and rooted in real life.
This isn’t nostalgia. It’s renewal.
FAQs
1. How can I get a copy of "Amigos"?
You can get a personal copy for a donation of 3€ or more, or pick up at a partner business or bookstore like Booklya.
2. How often is the magazine published?
Four times a year — once per season: Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter.
3. Can I contribute or volunteer?
Yes! The team welcomes writers, translators, designers, and anyone who wants to help. Reach out via Instagram or email.
4. Is there an online version?
Currently in print, but a digital archive and PDF versions are being developed.
5. What makes “Amigos” different from other Ukrainian publications?
It’s community-based, entirely volunteer-run, and designed to bridge cultures. It’s Ukrainian and European at once — modern, proud, and deeply personal.