Amity: A Fundraiser for Ukraine

When I first heard about the war in Ukraine, I didn’t really understand what was happening. But as I learned more, I realised that many people, especially children like me, had to leave their homes because it was no longer safe. That made me feel really sad, and also very thankful to live in a peaceful country like Singapore.

In April 2022, my art school took part in Amity, a special fundraiser held at the Queens Road Ballroom at Hotel Royal, to support the people affected by the war in Ukraine. We were told that the sunflower is the national flower of Ukraine, and it has become a symbol of hope for the people during this difficult time. I wanted to do something to help, even if it was just something small.

I worked really hard on my art piece, choosing bright and happy colours to make it feel cheerful and full of life. I wanted my sunflower painting to bring a bit of light to someone who needed it. When we displayed our artworks, people could buy them, and the small amount we raised went to help Ukrainian families.

The word Amity means friendship and peaceful harmony. It reminds us of what we should all be working towards. In times of war, fear, and sadness, we need to choose peace and friendship. Amity, not enmity. If more people believed in friendship instead of fighting, maybe there wouldn’t be so much suffering in the world

It felt so nice to know that even though I was only 10, I could still do something meaningful. My painting may be small, but I hope it made a difference. I also learned that art isn’t just for fun. It can be powerful, and it can send a message of love and hope to people far away.