Students from the Entrepreneurship/Start your Own Business Course at Coláiste Dhúlaigh College of Further Education, have come together to create and design "PawsFromUkraine" a fundraising calendar in aid of The Irish Blue Cross.
This calendar is a curated selection of photographs that showcases the inspiring stories of some 600 Ukrainian families and their much-loved dogs, many of whom risked their own lives to escape the ravages of war in Ukraine and find refuge in Ireland. The photographs within reflect the incredibly unique bond that exists between families and their canine companions.
This series of photographs, captured by Entrepreneurship students, Mariia Koshyrenkova and Charlie Murphy highlights the strength and courage it has taken these families to overcome adversity. Charlie and Mariia traveled the length and breadth of Ireland to meet with these families and their pets and hear their courageous, heartwarming, and inspiring stories.
The "Paws from Ukraine" calendar is a testament to the resilience of these families and their loyal companions, capturing the spirit of hope, unity, and the enduring human-animal bond. Through a series of heart-warming photographs, each month tells a unique story, highlighting the journey taken to gain refuge. The calendar will be supported by a documentary and Photograph book detailing each of the participant's stories.
Proceeds from the calendar will be directed towards supporting the invaluable work of The Irish Blue Cross, providing much-needed funds for those pets that need it most.
"We are immensely proud of our students at Coláiste Dhúlaigh for their compassion, creativity, and commitment to making this project work," said Sharon McIlvenna, Entrepreneurship Course Tutor at CDCFE. "The 'PawsfromUkraine' calendar not only serves as a beautiful tribute to the human-pet bond but also plays a crucial role in supporting those who have experienced the hardships of war."
The calendar will be available for purchase online and at pop-up stores from mid-December.
