Ukrainian Vet Finds New Purpose as Scottish Baker

Viktoriia Jouja, a veterinary surgeon who fled Ukraine with her family after the 2022 Russian invasion, now runs a bakery in Dumfries, Scotland. Jouja operated a private veterinary clinic in Kherson for 17 years before seeking refuge through the Homes for Ukraine scheme. Faced with needing further qualifications to practice veterinary medicine in the UK, she turned to baking, sharing traditional Ukrainian recipes passed down from her grandmother.

She began selling her breads and pastries at local farmers’ markets, building a following before opening a permanent shop in Dumfries. Jouja views the bakery not just as a business, but as a way to share her culture and family traditions with the local community.

Despite the success of her new venture, Jouja prioritizes securing a stable future for her family in Scotland, appreciating the welcoming environment they’ve found in Dumfries and Galloway.