Ex-UCFB student hosts historic visit by Ukrainian Ambassador to the UK

Former UCFB MSc Football Business student and Chair of FC Inter London, Andrian Selivestru, had the honour of hosting a historic visit by the Ukrainian Ambassador to the UK, Valerii Zaluzhnyi, at their training ground in London.

The visit, initiated by Andrian and facilitated by former Ukrainian footballer Sergei Baltacha, highlighted the incredible work that Andrian and his team have done in supporting displaced Ukrainian families and children in the UK through football.

Andrian welcomed the Ukrainian ambassador along with UCFB academic and Non-Executive Director of FC Inter London, Andy Golding, and fellow board members, coaches, and associates.

What started as a passion project for Andrian, inspired by his mentor and former head of postgraduate studies at UCFB, Dr. Nick Wilde, FC Inter London has grown into something extraordinary. 

This initiative has also seen tremendous support from former UCFB MSc Football Business student and current FC Inter London Board member, Nick Walton.

The visit comes at a significant milestone for FC Inter London, which has now become the largest Ukrainian football organisation of its type in the UK. This development follows Andrian’s victory in the UCFB Sports Entrepreneur Award — funded by UCFB chair Brendan Flood. Andrian’s success in the competition three years ago helped fuel the organisation’s rapid expansion.

FC Inter London focuses on supporting and helping displaced Ukrainian families and children integrate into UK society through football. 

The club’s primary mission is to offer a platform for youth development and community engagement, with a particular emphasis on helping Ukrainian refugees, many of whom have been displaced due to the ongoing war.

Reflecting on the visit, Andrian Selivestru shared: “What touched us all was how the ambassador personally shook hands with each child, showing them respect and care in such a meaningful way. 

“This visit marks a proud milestone in our journey — one of unity, inspiration, and community.”

Andy Golding commented: “What Andrian has achieved in his selfless desire to help Ukrainian children and families integrate into UK society through football is nothing short of inspirational and extremely humbling. 

“It is an extraordinary example of how sport can bring people together and create positive change by bridging cultures and providing an inclusive environment through the power of sport… I am incredibly proud that UCFB has been able to play some part in equipping Andrian with the skills, knowledge and confidence to succeed in this incredible project.”

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