Borsch Club
Host: Olya Viazenko
Categories: Languages and Cultures
Languages: English, Ukrainian
Otago Access Radio
Produced By: OAR FM Dunedin
Programme Website
Immerse yourself in Ukrainian culture and stories! From traditions and history to modern life, this show is your ultimate ticket to all things Ukraine. Hosted by Olya Viazenko.
All Episodes
Borsch Club - Episode 10 - Frontline Voices: Roman Tilmanis
Published: 08/4/2025 3:46 p.m.
In this episode of Borsch Club, we speak with Roman Tilmanis — a Latvian officer, historian, and volunteer fighter in Ukraine’s International Legion. Roman shares his frontline experience, explains why global support for Ukraine is essential, and reflects on learning Ukrainian language and culture. We also introduce a few new Ukrainian words, talk about Russian propaganda and nuclear threats, and explore how everyone can help. Plus, discover how to support Ukraine’s women’s ice hockey team in Dunedin! This show was broadcast on OAR 105.4FM Dunedin - http://oar.org.nz and made thanks to the support of NZ on Air.
Borsch Club - Episode 9 - Reflections, Resistance, and Global Voices
Published: 25/3/2025 4:17 p.m.
Episode 9 - Reflections, Resistance, and Global Voices - In this powerful episode of Borsch Club, I reflect on 11 years since the occupation of Crimea, sharing personal memories from 2014, and explore what global support really means today. Our special guest, Dunedin-based sculptor Lawrie Forbes, talks about his artwork Slava Ukraine and why he stands with Ukraine. We also dive into the meaning of the iconic Ukrainian greeting “Slava Ukraini – Heroyam Slava!” and what it symbolises in wartime. An episode full of heartfelt reflections, international solidarity, and fresh insights. This show was broadcast on OAR 105.4FM Dunedin - http://oar.org.nz and made thanks to the support of NZ on Air.
Borsch Club - Episode 8 - Clearing Ukraine: Mines, Danger, and Hope
Published: 11/3/2025 1:18 p.m.
In this episode of Borsch Club, we welcome a special guest, Ihor Shevtsov, a professional military officer with over 30 years of service in the Ukrainian army. Currently, he is dedicated to the crucial mission of demining Ukrainian territories after the Russian occupation. We discuss the scale of the challenge, the dangers civilians face, and the innovative methods used, including trained dogs. Tune in to hear firsthand insights into this vital work and the long road ahead to making Ukraine safe again. This show was broadcast on OAR 105.4FM Dunedin - http://oar.org.nz and made thanks to the support of NZ on Air.
Borsch Club - Episode 7 - Chornobyl Under Attack: Nuclear Threat Returns
Published: 25/2/2025 4:03 p.m.
On February 14, 2025, Russia launched a strike on the protective sarcophagus of Chornobyl’s fourth reactor, raising global concerns about nuclear safety and radioactive contamination. While this episode was recorded earlier, the attack on Chornobyl makes our conversation with Yaroslav Yemelyanenko, Director of Chornobyl Tour, and Kateryna Aslamova, Head of the Chornobyl Volunteer Centre, more relevant than ever. They share expert insights on nuclear safety, the lessons of Chornobyl, and survival myths. Stay informed - stay prepared! This show was broadcast on OAR 105.4FM Dunedin - http://oar.org.nz and made thanks to the support of NZ on Air.
Borsch Club - Episode 6 - Ambassador’s Visit: Ukraine in Dunedin
Published: 11/2/2025 12:00 p.m.
In this special episode we bring you the speech of Vasyl Myroshnychenko, Ukraine’s Ambassador to Australia and New Zealand, during his first visit to Dunedin. With his permission, we recorded his powerful address to the local community, covering Ukraine’s resilience, global support, and the ongoing fight for freedom. If you couldn’t attend the event, this is your chance to hear it firsthand. Stay tuned for the next episodes, where we’ll share more insights and audience Q&A from this important meeting. This show was broadcast on OAR 105.4FM Dunedin - http://oar.org.nz and made thanks to the support of NZ on Air.
