Stefan Romaniw: Honoring 70 years since the birth of a prominent Ukrainian leader

This day of Nov. 12, marks what would have been the 70th birthday of Stefan Romaniw, a distinguished leader of the global Ukrainian community and First Vice President of the Ukrainian World Congress (UWC) who was based in Australia.

Born in Melbourne in 1955, Stefan dedicated his life to serving Ukraine by tirelessly advancing its interests on the international stage and upholding the principles of freedom, truth, and solidarity.

As a long-time leader and First Vice President of the UWC and head of the Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations, leader of the youth scouting group CYM Melbourne, and chair of the Parish Council of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Cathedral, Stefan Romaniw worked to strengthen Ukrainian communities around the world.

“Stefan was a true leader who inspired people not out of duty, but because they believed in him. His charisma, intellect, global perspective, compassion, work ethic, vision, and incredible sense of humor lifted everyone around him. I don’t know anyone who didn’t admire or love Stefan,” said UWC President Paul Grod.

Romaniw was an dedicated advocate for truth, recognition of the Holodomor as genocide, support for Ukraine and its defenders, and the development of the youth movement and Ukrainian church abroad. 

His initiatives, from the “Unquenchable Candle” campaign to organizing forums and building museums, remain a vital part of Ukrainian history and memory.

Stefan Romaniw passed away while on a civic trip while returning to Australia from Lithuania, where he had participated in the founding assembly of the Anti-Imperialist Bloc of Nations and met with the Ukrainian community in Vilnius.

To preserve his legacy, the UWC established the Stefan Romaniw Youth Leadership Foundation in March to support young leaders within the Ukrainian diaspora.

In Melbourne, an annual commemorative march has been established in his honor, and in Ukraine, a sports complex at the Nazareth rehabilitation center in Drohobych (Lviv region) has been named after him. The Australian Federation of Ukrainian Organisations has also launched an online memorial board for sharing memories and photos.

Romaniw’s work continues to live on. The “30 Under 30” project, launched in his memory, recognizes young Ukrainians who are transforming their communities and inspiring others.

The global Ukrainian community remembers and honors Stefan Romaniw’s lasting contributions to strengthening Ukrainian unity.

Eternal and bright memory to Stefan Romaniw.