Ray Taheri, a professor at the University of British Columbia, Okanagan campus, is opting for a red jacket instead of a Santa suit this Christmas as he prepares to deliver toys to children in Ukraine, Moldova, and Romania. Ukrainians celebrate Eastern Orthodox Christmas on Jan. 7, so Taheri will be landing in Ukraine on Christmas Eve to bring some holiday cheer to those in need. He has collected 250 gifts over the year and will be taking two weeks to deliver them all. Taheri believes that the spirit of Christmas is about love, care, sharing, and feeling close to others, even if you haven’t met them.
In addition to the toys, Taheri’s students have helped by making dragons in the colors of the Ukrainian flag using 3D printers to give out to schools. He hopes that these dragons will bring comfort to the children and remind them that they are loved. Taheri is determined to honor his late friend, Peter Nicu, by visiting schools and maker-spaces he helped set up the previous year. He also plans to fundraise to help families in Ukraine who are struggling due to ongoing conflict and violence.
Taheri’s passion for helping others has driven him to take action as the second anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine approaches. He believes that as an engineer, it is his duty to be part of the solution rather than part of the problem. While he may not be able to match Santa’s speed in delivering gifts, Taheri is committed to spreading joy and making a positive impact in the lives of those he meets during his journey. He sees this as an opportunity to connect with others and show them that they are not forgotten.
As Taheri prepares for his trip, he is reminded of the importance of spreading kindness and love, especially during difficult times. He believes that small gestures, such as giving a toy or a handmade dragon, can make a big difference in someone’s life. By taking the time to visit schools, speak with students, and raise awareness about the challenges facing families in Ukraine, Taheri hopes to inspire others to do their part in helping those in need. Through his actions, he demonstrates that compassion knows no boundaries and that we all have a role to play in making the world a better place.
Taheri’s dedication to helping others is a testament to the power of empathy and human connection. As he embarks on his journey to deliver toys and support to those in Ukraine, Moldova, and Romania, Taheri embodies the true spirit of Christmas. His willingness to go above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of others serves as an inspiration to all who hear his story. By demonstrating the importance of kindness, generosity, and solidarity, Taheri reminds us that we can all make a positive impact in the world, no matter how big or small our actions may be.
In the midst of conflict and turmoil, Taheri’s efforts to bring joy and support to those in need serve as a beacon of hope. As he travels through Ukraine and beyond, Taheri is a reminder that compassion and humanity can prevail even in the darkest of times. By reaching out to those who are struggling and offering a helping hand, Taheri exemplifies the true meaning of Christmas and showcases the power of unity and love in overcoming adversity. His dedication to making a difference in the world is a shining example of the impact that one person can have when they choose to make a positive difference in the lives of others.
