Local volunteer honoured with award nomination

When Ukrainian women in Dublin needed strength, hope and a place to belong, they found it in the joy and energy of Vita Hrosheva.

For nearly three years, the Terenure-based Irish Red Cross volunteer has been lifting spirits, rebuilding confidence and helping refugee women and children heal through the simple power of dance.

Now, Vita’s extraordinary work has been recognised as she has been shortlisted for the Irish Red Cross Volunteer of the Year Award 2025.

Fellow volunteer Nataliia Lukashuk, who nominated Vita, said she embodies the very best of the Red Cross spirit. “Vita stands out for her selfless dedication, her gift for bringing people together, and her ability to restore hope and confidence. She represents humanity, compassion and service, and her impact is felt in every life she touches.”

Since joining the Irish Red Cross in December 2022, Vita has poured her heart into her work.

Through a wide range of dance classes including Ukrainian folk, bachata, waltz, oriental dance and special sessions for children, she has created a welcoming space where women and families can smile again, move freely and feel at home.

Her classes are far more than dance lessons. They are spaces of encouragement, sisterhood and healing where women leave feeling braver, stronger and more connected both to their heritage and to their new lives in Ireland. For children, her playful sessions bring laughter, routine and the warmth of belonging.

Nataliia said Vita’s lasting impact on individuals and the wider community makes her a truly deserving nominee. “She has touched so many lives with her compassion, resilience and kindness. Her work reminds us what the Red Cross is really about, people helping people and finding strength together.”

The Irish Red Cross National Volunteer Awards celebrate the compassion, commitment and hard work of volunteers across Ireland who give their time freely to help others. These are the people who provide first aid at community events, visit those who are isolated or vulnerable, help neighbours prepare for storms and floods, or bring comfort to nursing home residents through therapeutic hand care.

All of them will be honoured at a special ceremony in Croke Park on November 29. Awards will be presented in several categories, including Volunteer of the Year, Young Volunteer of the Year, Community Support Volunteer of the Year, Unit Member of the Year, Instructor of the Year, Branch of the Year, Newcomer of the Year and the Lifetime Achievement Award.