A significant event took place in Tallinn, the capital of Estonia, becoming a symbol of unity, cultural diplomacy, and the strength of the Ukrainian community in Europe. During the international festival smART Fest 2026, a European record was officially registered in the “First Time” and “Mass Events” categories — “The Towel of Unity – The Towel of Victory” (Rushnyk Yednosti – Rushnyk Peremohy).
The initiative for the record was spearheaded by the Association of Ukrainian Organizations in Estonia and the project leader and mastermind, Andriy Yatsenko.
The massive, 160-meter-50-centimeter-long traditional embroidered towel (rushnyk) united 103 individual towels created with the participation of 89 organizations from various European countries. Ukrainian communities, craftswomen, volunteers, and cultural organizations joined the initiative, showcasing the power of unity and support for Ukraine through the traditional art of embroidery.
Each towel became a piece of a shared story created by Ukrainians from different corners of the world. Through ornaments and symbols, the participants conveyed a message of resilience, the preservation of cultural heritage, and the importance of national identity, even far from home.
The event was attended by representatives of the Ukrainian diaspora, the diplomatic corps, public figures, and international partners. The Mayor of Tallinn, Peeter Raudsepp, also joined in honoring the record-breakers.
The official registration of the record was conducted by the Book of World Records. Multi-record holders and representatives of the Book of World Records, Oksana Schoorlemmer and Liudmyla Shanska, addressed the participants with congratulations. Among them was Oksana Schoorlemmer, who also serves as the Director of the Business Woman magazine representation in Germany. They highlighted the project’s significance for popularizing Ukrainian culture globally and strengthening international cultural ties.
“The Towel of Unity – The Towel of Victory” became not only a European record but also a powerful symbol of Ukrainian solidarity. It demonstrated that regardless of their country of residence, Ukrainians remain united by shared values, culture, and faith in victory.
Such initiatives prove once again that culture is one of the most powerful tools for international dialogue, while Ukrainian women, public figures, and diaspora leaders play a vital role in preserving national heritage and shaping a positive image of Ukraine worldwide.
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Photo: Book World Records