We spoke to Maiia Diakova, who moved from Ukraine to London when Russia’s invasion of Ukraine began. She received a bike from The Bike Project last November. Let’s hear about Maiia’s experience:

My name is Maiia Diakova, I am 52 years old. I came to London from Kyiv, fleeing the war, when Russia began to bomb Ukraine and invaded its territory.

When did you first meet The Bike Project?

I learned about the wonderful The Bike Project when I got food from the food bank at St. John’s Blackheath. I use my bike almost every day.

Has your life changed since getting a bike?

My life has changed a lot since I got my bike. My sleep has improved, I haven’t slept well since the start of the war, because I began to spend more time outdoors, doing physical exercises and enjoying getting to know new places in London.

Having a bike makes my life a lot easier. I take ESOL English courses 4 times a week. I have a lot of notes and always have a heavy backpack, I have a basket on my bike, which helps me a lot to cope with this and, of course, I am glad to save time and money on the trip.

What does cycling mean to you?

For me, it is, first of all, freedom of movement, using an ecological mode of transport, and useful physical activity.

Why do you think the work of The Bike Project is important?

Because you help refugees who cannot afford to buy a bike, you provide free repairs and maintenance, your employees are very polite, professional, attentive, responsible.

The Bike Project performs an important socially responsible mission to support the adaptation and improvement of the quality of life of refugees. You also encourage a healthy lifestyle and environmentally friendly transport.

Do you like cycling?

Of course, I am very grateful to The Bike Project for such an opportunity, for a very comfortable bike, matched to my height, the size of the bike, which became my great helper.

What’s your favourite memory or place you’ve cycled to?

I really love Greenwich Park, Victoria Park, Hyde Park and other parks in London. My Esol English courses are on the Isle of Dogs, Canary Wharf and another one near the Maritime Museum so I go there often. I have also been cycling near Buckingham Palace, St Paul’s Cathedral, Tower of London, Paddington and many other beautiful places in London.

In an ideal world, how would you like refugees to be treated in the UK?

As with those who need empathy, help and support. Many refugees were subjected to severe trials, violence, lost their homes, relatives and friends, faith in people, their lives have changed dramatically, it is very difficult for many to ask for help.

Thank you so much, Maiia, for sharing your thoughts with us!