Hardened&United

Hardened and United is a charity platform and community project dedicated to supporting Ukrainian refugees who experience isolation, mental health challenges, and the need for solidarity. Born from my own journey as a Ukrainian refugee and a desire to express pride and love for my homeland, this project combines custom merchandise with an online platform to help displaced Ukrainians build supportive communities abroad.

My research covered the mental health impact of war on refugees, the role of national identity and patriotism, and the significance of traditional Ukrainian symbols like the vyshyvanka, which I adapted into the visual theme. The design centers on a pixelated embroidery effect, using symbols like the trident and other cultural icons to represent unity and resilience. This unique visual identity extends to merchandise, allowing supporters to showcase their pride for Ukraine while financially aiding Ukrainian causes.

The platform includes features for event information, services by and for Ukrainians, and donation options, fostering mutual support. Additionally, the website is available in both Ukrainian and English, making it accessible not only to Ukrainians but also to anyone wishing to show solidarity. Developing this project also allowed me to advance my web design and screen-printing skills, helping me achieve a design that resonates deeply with Ukrainians and supporters alike.