Devon Ukrainian Association (DUA) was formally established in May 2022 with support from Exeter City Council, emerging from the grassroots success of the Conversation Café for Ukraine—an initiative launched in March 2022 by Maketank Cultural Lab in partnership with Exeter City Council. The café quickly evolved into a vibrant welcome hub for displaced Ukrainians and a civic space for local residents interested in supporting Ukraine and hosting refugees.

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As the war escalated, the Conversation Café became a vital bridge between communities, catalyzing a dynamic programme of events, awareness campaigns, and cultural engagement. By Autumn 2022, the Devon Ukrainian Association CIC assumed full leadership of the project, cultivating partnerships with a wide range of stakeholders including Exeter City Council, Devon County Council, East Devon District Council, University of Exeter, Exeter College, Exeter Phoenix, Four of Swords, Mint Church, Exeter Cathedral, and St. Sidwell’s Community Centre.

This collaborative model of rapid, community-led response has drawn national attention. Exeter City Council was approached by other local authorities seeking to replicate DUA’s success in welcoming and integrating Ukrainian refugees. The work of the Conversation Café has been featured widely in the media, including seven BBC Radio Devon interviews, three BBC South West television spots, and three ITV News features.

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In recognition of its impact, the project received the Exeter Living Award in the Civic category in March 2024. DUA continues to grow as a trusted organisation championing Ukrainian culture, community integration, and civic dialogue in Devon.