News Summary
A Ukrainian refugee, Viktoriia Gorbachevska, has launched a thriving health-conscious snack bar business called Arti Bar in Raleigh, NC. After fleeing her home due to war, Gorbachevska embraced local community support and her culinary roots in creating wholesome snack bars. The business not only caters to health needs but also signifies resilience and integration into the new community. The bars are now sold at various markets and stores throughout North Carolina, showcasing the power of adaptation and community support.
Ukrainian Refugee Turns Healthy Snack Bars into Successful Business in Raleigh, NC
Raleigh, NC—A Ukrainian refugee has transformed a simple homemade snack into a flourishing local business, exemplifying resilience and community integration. Viktoriia Gorbachevska, who fled Ukraine in 2022 due to the ongoing war with Russia, now sells her health-conscious snack bars across several markets and stores in North Carolina.
Fleeing Ukraine Amid Conflict
Gorbachevska left her homeland on the day the war began, packing only a single backpack in the middle of the night. Her family, including her husband and two young sons, was resettled in Raleigh with assistance from the U.S. State Department. The transition to life in North Carolina posed numerous challenges, including language barriers and adjusting to unfamiliar food products.
Community Support and Adaptation
Initially, a local woman provided the family with shelter for six months, which played a significant role in helping Gorbachevska rebuild her trust in people and develop a sense of belonging in her new country. During this period, she focused on learning English and becoming familiar with the grocery options available in the United States.
Returning to Roots Through Healthy Eating
Before relocating, Gorbachevska was accustomed to preparing meals from scratch using ingredients grown by her father. This approach contrasted sharply with the processed foods that are widely available in American grocery stores. Motivated by a desire to offer healthier options for her children, she started creating snack bars from simple, natural ingredients.
From Family Snack to Local Business
Her children loved the homemade snack bars, and friends and neighbors soon showed interest in trying them. The positive reception eventually led Gorbachevska to establish Arti Bar, a small business centered around her wholesome snack bars. Her company is driven by passion rather than profit, with the goal of promoting better health and community wellness.
Distribution and Market Presence
Arti Bar is now sold at multiple local venues, including farmers’ markets such as North Hills. The snack bars are also available at various retail outlets, including NoFo at the Pig, Weaver Street Market, Hartwell, and several shops in Asheville. The growing presence highlights the community’s acceptance and support for her products.
Community and Future Aspirations
Gorbachevska has expressed deep gratitude for the welcoming environment of Raleigh, emphasizing a sense of belonging and home. Her future aspirations include developing a trustworthy brand that contributes positively to community health. She aims to expand her business while remaining committed to providing wholesome, natural food options to her customers.
Background and Broader Context
This story exemplifies how recent refugees adapt and contribute to their new communities through entrepreneurship and healthy living initiatives. Gorbachevska’s journey underscores the importance of community support and the ability of newcomers to build meaningful lives by combining their cultural roots with new opportunities.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Ukrainian Refugee Transforms Personal Journey into Snack Business
Additional Resources
- ABC11: Ukrainian Refugee Builds Snack Business in Raleigh
- News Observer: Ukrainian Refugee News
- Spectrum Local News: Ukrainian Cultural Center in Raleigh
- Google Search: Ukrainian refugees in North Carolina
- Wikipedia: Ukrainian refugees
Author: STAFF HERE RALEIGH WRITER
RALEIGH STAFF WRITER The RALEIGH STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERERaleigh.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Raleigh, Wake County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the North Carolina State Fair, Raleigh Arts Festival, and the Hopscotch Music Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Raleigh Chamber of Commerce and Visit Raleigh, plus leading businesses in technology and education that power the local economy such as Red Hat and NC State University. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HERECharlotte.com, HEREGreensboro.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
