"The scenes of Ukraine which I saw through the media was just so heart breaking" , Sydney resident, Masahito Yamaguchi, tells SBS Japanese.
He is the president of World Scholarship Organisation (WSO), a not-for-profit organisation led by the Japanese community in Sydney.
"What can I do to help?"
His answer, was to come in direct contact with the displaced Ukrainians, and be their helping hand.
Although Mr Yamaguchi does not speak Polish or Ukrainian, this did not stop him from flying solo to Poland in early August.
Poland has taken the highest number of displaced Ukrainians since the start of war.
Having volunteered in various countries in the past, he knew there will be something to help with, once in the country.
Masahito Yamaguchi at Medyka, Poland, helping displaced Ukrainians with their large luggage Credit: Masahito Yamaguchi
"You can see hardship all over their faces. That's why I made sure to smile always, and help with everything I could possibly do"
With 30 years of experience as a visa agent in Australia, Mr. Yamaguchi soon began working at a visa application desk at Warsaw central railway station, Poland, looking after those who wish to make their way to UK or Canada.
Warsaw central railway station, Poland Credit: Masahito Yamaguchi
"People entering and leaving Medyka is around the same now" he explains.
"But there are still around 1000 people fleeing the country everyday, and support needs to continue"
"Lot of volunteer desks are closing due to cuts in budgets"
The visa desk where Mr Yamaguchi has been volunteering is also rumoured to close in the coming days.
He calls for continued support for Ukrainians, reminding that war is not over.
For Mr Yamaguchi's interview, listen from below:
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