A weekly newspaper has lent its support to a Ukrainian refugee journalist by giving her work experience.

Samia Bulkhendi, pictured, is undertaking the placement with the Doncaster Free Press after fleeing the war in her homeland.

The 21-year-old Kyiv native has spent four years studying journalism and is now hoping to put it to good use in her adoptive home.

During her time with the Free Press so far, she has written a first-person piece documenting the impact the Russian invasion has had on her life.

Discussing her time in Doncaster, Samia wrote: “I have met a lot of interesting people which is really nice. To be honest, I never thought that I would live here, but it’s so cool and interesting.

“It is my first time when I’m alone and can do everything that I want and no-one will judge me. I graduated from university this summer. I studied for four years to be a journalist.

“I have no experience of it, but so excited to try. I really like to communicate with people, to help them, show the truth. So, I think it was good decision to study journalism.

“You know that a lot of people go to university just to have a diploma, not the experience and knowledge. So, now I have a big opportunity, so excited.”

In spending time with a UK regional paper, Samia follows in the footsteps of fellow Ukrainian refugee Anastasiia Shovkoplias, who completed a placement with the Southern Daily Echo earlier this year.

Free Press journalist Darren Burke told HTFP: “We were absolutely delighted to hear from Samia and how she was keen to pursue a career in journalism in the UK following the terrible invasion of her homeland.

“Doncaster Council made the initial approach to set something up and we’re hoping we can work with Samia and give her an insight into journalism and reporting and Doncaster during her stay in the UK.

“It is wonderful that she wants to help report on the news in the city that she now calls home.”