When we built Avandra, our prototype adventure van, we imagined mountain passes, wild camps, and remote expeditions. What we didn't imagine was that her first true mission would take her into a war zone.
Into the Unknown
In 2024, Avandra crossed the Polish border into Ukraine under cover of darkness. The air raid sirens were already wailing, missiles were falling, and the roads ahead were lined with checkpoints and tanks. This was no ordinary test run—this was a mission of hope.
We had joined adventurer Paula Reid on her ride across Ukraine, supporting her cycle from Odessa to Chernobyl to raise awareness and funds for the Siobhan's Trust, a charity delivering aid to displaced families across the country. Alongside Paula, we were joined by the unstoppable Neil Laughton, who, true to form, brought his penny-farthing to ride part of the journey.
That first night, just across the border, we camped up in Avandra—our piece of England in foreign soil. She wasn't just our transport; she was our home, our workshop, our safe haven. From the Black Sea in Odessa, where bombardments still shook the city, we began the long drive north, weaving through villages and towns across the heart of Ukraine.
A Magnet for Hope
Everywhere we went, Avandra became a magnet for hope. Together with the Siobhan's Trust team, we handed out supplies, shared stories, and hosted impromptu pizza parties for families left behind—wives, sisters, children, and, at times, even soldiers. In the midst of chaos, we created moments of normality, laughter, and community.
But the journey was far from easy. Past Kiev, one wrong turn forced us into a hair-raising three-point turn on a narrow track—with minefields on either side. It was a reminder that every mile carried risk, that every decision mattered. Reliability wasn't optional. Had Avandra failed us—had she broken down—we would have had no choice but to abandon her.
Instead, she delivered. She tackled broken roads, rough terrain, freezing nights, and endless miles without complaint. She kept us warm, kept us safe, and kept us moving.
Extraordinary Company
In Kiev, we found ourselves at dinner with an extraordinary group: the 12th Earl of Dundee, two ex-SAS officers, a tank commander, Magnus Linklater of The Times, and Roman Hryshchuk MP, a serving member of Ukraine's parliament. The conversations around that table reminded us of the scale of the conflict, and the importance of every small act of support.
From those moments in Kiev to the final push north to Chernobyl, Avandra never faltered.
Looking back, that journey was more than a shakedown run. It was a baptism of fire. Avandra proved herself not just as a vehicle, but as a partner—a lifeline that carried us, supported us, and gave us the freedom to bring hope where it was needed most.
What These Vans Are Truly About
For us, that's what these vans are truly about: not just adventure, but resilience. Not just exploration, but connection. And on her first mission, Avandra set the standard for everything Wildbox Adventure Vehicles would go on to build.
About Siobhan's Trust
Siobhan's Trust continues to deliver vital aid to displaced families across Ukraine. Their work brings hope and practical support to those who need it most during these challenging times.