Maiak is a bilingual online magazine about history, culture, art, social entrepreneurship — and, above all, people.
We focus on ordinary individuals whose daily actions often go unnoticed, yet carry real meaning. We do not write about celebrities or social media stars. Instead, we tell stories of those who quietly change lives around them: a family rebuilding homes destroyed by war, a businessman providing free surgical care to the wounded, a teenager with autism who turns art into support for Ukraine’s defenders.
We publish in Ukrainian and English, adapting our stories for a British reader. Today, we are neighbours who need to live side by side, understand one another, and listen carefully. Maiak exists both for Ukrainians around the world and for anyone who wants to truly understand Ukraine — beyond clichés and stereotypes.
The name Maiak is no coincidence. A lighthouse is both a symbol and a purpose: it gives light and direction to those who feel lost. In English, lighthouse is made of light and house — two things millions of Ukrainians still long for: light, and a sense of home.
Our Focus & Approach
People first
Every person is the main character of their own story.
Ethics and dignity
Respect for privacy, careful work with traumatic experiences, and honest attribution are fundamental to us.
Bilingual storytelling as a cultural bridge
We tell stories in English in a way that can be felt and understood in the UK and beyond.
Challenging stereotypes
We dismantle myths about migrants, refugees, and asylum seekers by showing real people — their doubts, actions, and resilience.
Solutions-oriented journalism
We don’t just describe problems; we look for ways to help and create impact together with our heroes, partners, and community.
Who We Are For
We are here for Ukrainians — in Ukraine and abroad, those born into the culture and those who chose it with their hearts.
We are here for British and international readers who care about culture, history, and people.
We are here for migrants, asylum seekers, and refugees still searching for a place to belong. We aim to be their calm, human voice.
How We Work & What’s Next
Today, Maiak is created by people from different countries, mostly on a volunteer basis. Website costs and services are covered through personal contributions and community support. This flexibility allows us to go beyond journalism and develop creative and socially meaningful projects — from educational events to cultural collaborations.
We see Maiak as a multimedia space: an online magazine, print editions, radio shows and podcasts, video projects, and live initiatives. A key direction is solutions journalism — exhibitions, workshops, fundraising for cultural spaces, and support for social initiatives created together with our community.
Get Involved
Partnerships
We are open to collaboration with media outlets, foundations, social enterprises, responsible businesses, and creative agencies.
Join the team
We are looking for writers, editors, partnership managers, grant writers, designers, layout artists, and SMM & marketing specialists.
Stories & ideas
Know a person or initiative the world should hear about? Write to us maiak.lighthouse.media@gmail.com
Support
Your contribution helps us stay independent and make good work visible.