Actress Katheryn Winnick Works to Help Ukraine: A Proud Ukrainian Woman and Her Tireless Efforts for Her Homeland!

Hello fans of cinema, history, and inspiring human stories! Today, I want to introduce you to Katheryn Winnick – the talented actress renowned for her role as Lagertha in Vikings, but lesser known as a passionate humanitarian, especially in her support for Ukraine, her ancestral homeland. With Ukrainian blood running through her veins, Winnick has not only used her Hollywood platform to denounce war but has also taken concrete actions through fundraising campaigns, serving as an ambassador, and meeting with leaders. From 2014 to the present day (even into 2025), her journey is a testament to the power of one individual to make a difference. If you’re looking for inspiration from celebrities who “walk the talk,” Winnick’s story will surely touch your heart! 🇺🇦

Who Is Katheryn Winnick and Why Is She Deeply Connected to Ukraine?

Katheryn Winnick, born on December 17, 1977, in Etobicoke, Ontario, Canada, is the daughter of Ukrainian immigrants who fled the Soviet regime. She grew up speaking Ukrainian as her first language, only learning English at age 8, and was raised hearing harrowing stories about the Holodomor – the genocidal famine orchestrated by Stalin. Beyond her acting career (notable in Vikings, Big Sky, The Dark Tower), Winnick is a professional martial artist (black belts in Taekwondo and Karate), director, and producer. Her global fame – with over 3 million Instagram followers – has become a powerful tool to raise awareness about Ukraine.

Winnick starred in “Bitter Harvest” (2017), the first English-language film about the Holodomor, playing Olga, a resilient Ukrainian mother enduring the famine’s horrors. This role was not just art but a way to honor her family’s history. Since 2014, when Russia annexed Crimea and the Euromaidan protests erupted, Winnick has publicly supported Ukraine on social media, calling for “honoring the ceasefire” and declaring, “I’m Ukrainian, and I can’t keep calm.” This marked the start of her long-term commitment.

Winnick’s Specific Efforts After the 2022 Invasion: From Words to Action

When Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022, Winnick – then busy with Big Sky – immediately spoke out. She praised President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as “the perfect example of Ukrainian strength” and a “true leader Ukraine needs to win,” while urging people to “speak up and condemn Russia’s attack on Ukraine.” She also recommended the documentary “Winter on Fire: Ukraine’s Fight for Freedom” on Netflix to highlight the Ukrainian spirit.

Launching The Winnick Foundation (March 2022): This was a game-changer! Winnick personally founded the charity, with 100% of donations going directly to UNITED24, President Zelenskyy’s official fundraising platform. The foundation focuses on “Rebuild Ukraine,” aiding the reconstruction of homes, schools, and infrastructure destroyed in the Kyiv region. To date, UNITED24 has raised over $1.4 billion thanks to efforts like hers, supporting defense, healthcare, and economic recovery. Winnick has organized creative fundraising events, like “Zoom Lunch with Katheryn” during Thanksgiving 2023, where donors could chat with her live, drawing thousands of participants.

UNITED24 Ambassador (March 2023): Winnick became the first Canadian ambassador for UNITED24, appointed by Zelenskyy himself. During a virtual meeting, he said, “For us, for Ukraine, it’s an honor to have ambassadors like you.” She focused on the Rebuild Ukraine initiative, stating, “A home is where families come together. It’s where we rebuild hope.” In May 2023, Winnick traveled to Kyiv for the UNITED24 Summit, meeting Zelenskyy and witnessing personal stories of heroism amidst the war. She shared on Instagram: “A week in Ukraine changed my life. I’m proud to be Ukrainian.”

Ongoing Support into 2025: By 2024-2025, Winnick’s efforts continued unabated. In February 2024, she posted gratitude for fans’ support and collaborated with other influencers. In June 2025, she updated: “Incredibly honored to continue supporting President Zelenskyy and United24 alongside many influencers.” On X (Twitter), she frequently calls for donations, with posts like “Thank you to all fans and supporters of Ukraine” alongside moving videos.

Winnick’s Impact: Beyond Money, a Voice and Hope

Thanks to Winnick, millions worldwide have learned about Ukraine—from the Holodomor’s history to the current war. Her foundation has helped rebuild hundreds of homes in Kyiv, restoring hope for families who lost everything. Like her Vikings character Lagertha, Winnick proves “Ukrainian women don’t need saving—they save themselves,” and she’s doing it for an entire nation. In 2025, as Ukraine continues its resilient fight against aggression, her support remains an endless source of inspiration.

Why You Should Act Today?

Follow Winnick’s lead: Every share and small donation makes a difference! Visit The Winnick Foundation at www.thewinnickfoundation.org to donate – 100% goes to UNITED24. Or follow her on Instagram @katheryn and X @KatherynWinnick for updates. Slava Ukraini! 🌻

How have you supported Ukraine? Is Winnick the true “Lagertha” of Hollywood? Share your thoughts below! #KatherynWinnick #StandWithUkraine #United24 #RebuildUkraine #SlavaUkraini