Daria Driuchenko, Participant of the Professional Integration HUB 1.0 program (The Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Civil Service, and Sports of Austria).

• Age: 33 years old
• City in Ukraine where you lived before the full-scale invasion (forced relocation): Kyiv
• Specialization: film director, producer

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND

Before the war started, I had been working for eight years as the head director of TV shows at 1+1 Media Broadcast Channel, especially on “ZHVL” (The Lives of Famous People).

In 2018, I started my own production company, where we produced and filmed numerous series and movies with foreign collaborators who came to Ukraine for shootings. In 2022, I had to close my production company, which no longer exists.

FORCED EMIGRATION

When the war started, I was nine months pregnant and didn’t plan to move anywhere. However, after hearing the sounds of explosions, I realized it was safer to move, even if only for a couple of days, to my friends in the western part of Ukraine. While driving to Ternopil, I saw TV news about a woman who gave birth in a subway because of air alarms and missile attacks. That scared me so much that we decided to head to the border immediately.

After two nights sleeping in line at the border, we finally entered Europe on February 28th. Our plan was to go to Germany or Switzerland, where my film partners could help me organize my childbirth. But my labor contractions started unexpectedly, and my doctor advised me to stop driving immediately. The first major city we reached was Vienna.

LIFE IN AUSTRIA

I didn’t know anyone in Vienna, which was frightening, but it was better than giving birth in the car. The next day, we went to a Ukrainian church and received all the necessary help we needed. I’d say it wasn’t me who chose Austria; Austria chose me.

The first couple of weeks were very hard psychologically. Vienna seemed very strict, full of rules, bureaucracy, a foreign language, and fear. We didn’t understand any road signs or announcements. On the second day, our car was towed, and we had no idea where it was. It was such a tough time that I cried every day, asking myself why I was going through all of this. But kind people, especially volunteers, helped a lot. Within a few days, I already had everything I needed for the baby from ordinary.

I was not on the front line of the war, but I fought every day in my own emigration war. In my opinion, every Ukrainian who moved abroad is going through very tough times. After all, being in another country and constantly finding your place under the sun is a huge job. Leaving everything behind and building a new life in a foreign country is a challenge that not everyone is capable of. My advice is: NEVER GIVE UP! I believe we can all overcome our troubles and live our best lives.

PROFESSIONAL INTEGRATION HUB

A friend from Portugal sent me a link to the Professional Integration HUB on Instagram. I hadn’t seen it before and immediately felt it was my chance. My expectations were to join an Austrian team wherever possible. I am still on my way to integration and continue pursuing my dream of professional fulfillment. I truly believe that someone who works hard cannot remain an outsider. But being a refugee is different. To be a good employee is not enough; you have to be the best. There is no chance for mistakes.

I am very impressed with the internship because I am in the best place I could imagine. This is the top, where all the decisions are made. Here, I can see what the market of culture looks like and who the people at the Ministry are. And believe me, they are great.

During my internship, I initiated several projects, including:

• A workshop for Ukrainian artists applying for grants and scholarships.
• Filming the project «Ukrainian Artists in Austria».

Forty people attended the workshop, and I received significant feedback from Ukrainians. The videos will be posted on the Ministry of Culture’s website and social media.

I have never worked at the Ministry of Culture in Ukraine, but I see that here, the Ministry of Culture is very committed to funding culture in all its forms. They are highly interested in modern art and in developing artistic taste among teenagers and young people. The institution is decentralized, with each department handling its own tasks. This approach minimizes the chance of corruption and allows them to be flexible, quick, and contemporary.

I really appreciate the tradition of having lunch together. The entire floor gathers to enjoy a meal and discuss news, problems, and other matters. They are very open-minded and always ready to help.

PLANS AFTER PARTICIPATING IN THE PROGRAM

My key insight is to be open and active, not afraid to propose new ideas, and not afraid of making mistakes. Just stay honest and do your best.

I still hope to have the opportunity to stay here in a full-time job, but that decision is not entirely in my hands. Though, I remain hopeful. If this doesn’t work out, I will continue looking for other opportunities and full-time employment because integrating into this country is my main goal (At the time of publishing this interview, Daria had already received an offer from the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, Civil Service, and Sports of Austria to continue cooperation – HUB).

I believe I can continue to help Ukrainian artists through the Austrian Ministry of Culture. I could assist in updating programs for Ukrainians; propose new initiatives, and more. Knowing people personally, speaking Ukrainian, and understanding their mindset and needs, I think I could be a good representative to support our nation abroad. Austrians help us as much as they can, but they will never fully understand our pain. I believe it’s essential for every institution to have a Ukrainian representative to advocate for our nation internationally. If we want to stay here, we must accept the rules of the game.

• Series of Interviews with Participants of the Professional Integration HUB Program.

Building a community is one of the most important tools for fostering integration.

On May 18, 2024, this vision took a significant step forward with the inaugural meeting of the Professional Integration HUB community. The event was a milestone, bringing together program participants, their curators, finalists of the selection process, and representatives of institutions and organizations that support and believe in our mission.

Among the distinguished attendees was Dr. Judith Kohlenberger, a representative of the Vienna University of Economics and Business, who specializes in forced migration, human resources, and integration.

Inspiring speeches were delivered by the program organizers: Olena Bekreniova, Olga Olefirova, and Yana Barinova. Their words underscored the importance of building a strong, supportive community to foster professional growth and integration.

One of the key moments of the meeting was the presentation of an exciting video about the HUB, which highlighted the stories and experiences of the guests in attendance. This visual representation brought to life the essence and purpose of our community.

The highlight of the evening was a collaborative painting created by the guests. This artwork symbolized unity and a shared vision for the future, reflecting the collective spirit and dedication of all involved in the HUB.

We are deeply grateful to our guests and supporters. As we embark on this journey, we are committed to forming a vibrant community of Ukrainian professionals in Austria.

Together, we will continue to build bridges and foster professional integration, ensuring a brighter future for all. Stay connected with us for more updates and join us in this exciting venture.

The Professional Integration HUB is initiated by ERSTE Foundation. The project is implemented by the European Centre for Freedom and Independence.

• Series of Interviews with Participants of the Professional Integration HUB Program.

Khrystyna Skorokhod, Participant of the Professional Integration HUB program (WIENXTRA).

• age: 25
• city in Ukraine where you lived before the full-scale invasion (forced relocation): Kyiv
• specialization: Social Work

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND

Before the full-scale invasion, I was completing my Master’s Degree in Social Work and working on my Master’s Thesis. Simultaneously, I worked as an International Secretary in the youth scout organization “Plast” in Ukraine, focusing on children and youth.

In Ukraine, there’s a need to learn quickly and do various tasks within tight deadlines, often requiring multitasking and resourcefulness. But from other side, it was great that you always have a space for your own ideas, supporting others and fostering creativity.

The work with youth in Ukraine is ongoing and adapting to the current situation. It faces challenges such as safety issues, reduced resources including human resources and energy, and limitations on opportunities compared to before. For instance, there are fewer opportunities to engage with youth in the East of Ukraine and a lack of safe spaces for events, therefore less interaction and communication.

FORCED EMIGRATION

The war found me on the morning of February 24th in my family’s apartment in Kyiv. The previous night, I had decided that I needed to accelerate my Master’s Thesis, so I went to bed very late. A few hours later, around 4 am, I was awoken by sounds that I immediately identified as unique from others.

I arrived in Austria at the end of March 2024. For the first two weeks after February 24th, my family and I stayed in the village in the Kyiv region. Then, I spent a week in the western part of Ukraine, followed by nearly two weeks in Italy before settling in Graz, Austria. My aunt’s relatives, who had migrated abroad long ago, assisted me with the move.

Initially, moving abroad was considered a temporary solution for safety reasons. I first relocated with my relatives to a village in the Alps in the north of Italy. However, as the war prolonged, my aunt’s relatives suggested that I move to Graz, Austria. We stopped there for a night on our way to Italy, and I was immediately drawn to it. Graz offered more opportunities for study and work compared to the village. I’m deeply thankful to Yulia and Nadiya, two remarkable women, for hosting and supporting me in their apartment in Graz for nearly a year, particularly during periods of stress and uncertainty.

LIFE IN AUSTRIA

In Austria, I faced a variety of challenges that really tested me, such as overcoming the language barrier, finding employment in my field, adjusting to life far from my family while also being constantly worried about them. Starting over from scratch in a new place was a big adjustment, and it all added up to a pretty tough time. But through it all, I made some big changes: I started learning the language, got a job, got used to living abroad, and met a lot of nice people along the way.

For my professional development, I ran into numerous obstacles. Initially, I had a hard time because my qualifications weren’t acknowledged. What is more, my German language skills were far from being perfect; I was inexperienced with Austrian organizations and didn’t have any connections within the local community. Unfortunately, I initially faced numerous job rejections due to my limited language skills, which prompted me to prioritize improving my proficiency in German. But when I saw other Ukrainians who found jobs or figured out similar situations, it really inspired and motivated me. Achieving professional success in Austria requires patience, support, and employers who are open to diverse backgrounds and experiences.

Having previously studied abroad on an Erasmus program in Finland, I entered Austria without many expectations, especially with safety being the top priority. However, I was pleasantly surprised by the level of organization and the willingness of people to lend assistance and support.

Despite having proficient English skills, I soon realized they weren’t sufficient for securing a job or pursuing further studies in Austria. I also noticed a higher degree of bureaucratic processes here. However, I really appreciated how they made sure to follow the rules and laws so diligently. Furthermore, I discovered that social services are well-developed in Austria, setting a positive example for societal care. Additionally, I met lots of people who were readily willing to offer help, even on the streets.

I am trying to use the experience and knowledge I gained in Ukraine for my life here in Austria, as I believe it’s something valuable. I receive support from my family in Ukraine, friends, and new acquaintances here. Moreover, I find energy in helping others and participating in activities that restore routine to my life, such as working, taking walks, reading, enjoying coffee, and spending time with people. I am also grateful for the social services provided by migrant organizations and the kindness of strangers I encounter along the way, all of which contribute to my well-being and adaptation to life in Austria.

The advice I would give to Ukrainians living abroad is to listen to yourself and trust your intuition. Remember that your current situation is temporary, and you are not alone in facing these challenges. Work on becoming independent by learning the language and taking advantage of any opportunities that come your way. Remember that your hard work will pay off in the future. Don’t forget to take care of yourself and stick to your values, both in your personal life and at work. These principles will guide you along your journey and contribute to your overall well-being and success.

PROFESSIONAL INTEGRATION HUB

I discovered the Professional Integration HUB program through Instagram, which immediately caught my interest. After reading more about it and following the program’s social media channels, I felt motivated to apply. I’m incredibly grateful that I did, as it has opened numerous opportunities for me, and I’m thrilled with my decision to participate.

My key expectations for the program were to gain experience in the social field in Austria, establish network connections, facilitate knowledge exchange between Austrians and Ukrainians, and complete the internship using the German language. I am pleased to say that the internship exceeded these expectations. Not only did it provide me with valuable experience, but it also allowed me to meet other interesting and inspiring people.

My impressions of the experience are remarkably positive. I strongly believe that the knowledge and skills we bring from our lives in Ukraine can greatly benefit organizations here, and vice versa. Personally, I feel that I have significantly developed my professional skills during this time. Having the chance to witness how organizations operate from the inside, has motivated me to continue growing and has reduced my concerns about not having mastered the language completely.

One major difference I’ve noticed is that in Austria, there are many processes aimed at preventing youth problems, supported significantly by the government. This proactive approach is something I view positively. In Ukraine, while there are numerous non-governmental organizations active in youth work, there aren’t enough informational centers specifically dedicated to youth-related issues.

One of the most valuable lessons I learned from the internship was the importance of observing how informational work with youth is organized. Seeing how the youth center works every day and the good it does for young people really showed me how important it is to keep working hard to support and empower them. This experience emphasized the importance of ongoing learning from others and the influence of effective youth-focused initiatives.

PLANS AFTER PARTICIPATING IN THE PROGRAM

The internship in the Professional Integration HUB program has significantly influenced my professional ambitions. It has motivated me to push myself further and pursue ongoing professional development opportunities in my current environment. I believe it’s essential to leverage my current skills and knowledge while remaining receptive to new learning opportunities and personal development in a foreign setting.

There are significant opportunities to implement European experience to help Ukraine, particularly in the field of working with young people. By adopting similar instruments and approaches used in European countries for youth development and support, Ukraine can create spaces where young people can access vital information and resources (for example through Youth centers – such services as consultations, trainings about financial literacy, media literacy, youth rights; exchange programs; services for parents, youth workers and everyone who works with youth). Investing in youth is investing in the future, and providing them with the necessary tools and opportunities can empower them to contribute positively to society.

In my opinion, this experience would be most valuable in the fields of social work and youth work. By focusing on supporting youth and providing opportunities for children to develop their skills and potential, Ukraine can lay a strong foundation for the future. Enhancing youth programs and social services can empower young people to become active and engaged citizens and contribute positively to the community’s welfare and prosperity in the long run.

Kateryna Tymoshenko, Professional Integration HUB program participant (Caritas Austria).

• Age: 26 years old
• City in Ukraine where you lived before the full-scale invasion (forced relocation): Kyiv
• Specialization: Humanitarian aid 

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND

Before the full-scale invasion, I provided translation and interpretation services and worked as a personal assistant at a private aviation company engaged in humanitarian, stabilization, and peacekeeping missions worldwide.

I worked in a very fast-paced environment and coordinated a large team of engineers. Unfortunately, natural disasters and violent conflicts occur frequently. I always needed to be ready to respond promptly and offer the administrative assistance required for the management of the team. 

Many of my former colleagues from the aviation company, that I worked for, are now defending our country. Friends of mine, who are linguists and translators, are actively engaged in aiding vulnerable communities and working on international development projects in Ukraine. Everyone is going above and beyond, dedicating as much effort as possible to stabilize the situation and restore peace and independence.

FORCED EMIGRATION

The war found me in Kyiv, Ukraine. It was supposed to be an ordinary working day, and nobody could believe that a war would start. However, like my fellow citizens, I awoke to the sound of explosions.

I spent a week in Kyiv, mostly in shelters, before deciding to leave for a safer place. I first went to Chernivtsi but later decided to move to Austria. During this time, I was also looking for ways to help my family in Chernihiv leave the city, which was partially occupied at that time.

Austria was the first country I went to following the full-scale invasion. I chose Austria because I knew some German, and it was not too far from Ukraine. At first, I believed I would be there for just a few weeks and return home soon.

LIFE IN AUSTRIA

It took some time and effort to stabilize and organize life in Austria, establish new social circles, get used to the way things work in areas such as healthcare and education, learn the German language, find housing, and more.

The language barrier was a significant challenge for my family. If you are not proficient in German, communication and integration can be difficult. It took a while to get used to everything and learn the language so we could communicate efficiently, connect with different institutions, and study and work.

I need to mention that we have been fortunate to meet many kind people in Austria and are deeply grateful for the incredible support from Austrian authorities and citizens. All of this has made our integration smoother.

What surprised and impressed me in my professional development and employment?

• Legal requirements: Meeting the legal requirements for employment, such as nostrification of documents and language proficiency certifications, can be time-consuming. Getting acquainted with Austria’s labor laws and regulations proved challenging, particularly given the differences from those in Ukraine.
• Differences in work culture: Adapting to the work culture and practices in Austria takes time, especially in a multicultural environment, when working together with people from diverse cultures and backgrounds.
• Professional opportunities: I am exploring how my skills and expertise can be used successfully in the Austrian labor market, seeking professional opportunities, and considering how I can positively contribute to Ukraine’s future too.

My family and friends provide emotional support and encouragement in my daily life during emigration. Engaging in hobbies and maintaining an active lifestyle gives me a sense of fulfillment and helps me manage stress. Being involved in projects related to Ukraine allows me to stay connected with my homeland and make a meaningful contribution, bringing a sense of purpose and satisfaction to my daily life.

What advice would I give to the Ukrainians living abroad? Stay determined, keep pushing forward, and believe in yourself.

PROFESSIONAL INTEGRATION HUB

When I came across the advertisement on Facebook and read the details about the Professional Integration HUB program, I knew right away that it was exactly what I had been looking for – an opportunity to develop skills and expand my network.

My main objectives were to expand my network of contacts, connect with individuals who shared my interests, improve my knowledge and interpersonal skills, and advance my proficiency in German. I aimed to deepen my integration within the professional community and gain valuable insights into projects led by Austrian organizations with a focus on Ukraine. Those expectations stayed the same, and I’m happy to say they were pretty much met. Over the course of three months, I experienced a highly productive period and acquired valuable skills and knowledge.

My internship was great! As an intern in Corporate Fundraising and Philanthropy at Caritas Austria, I supported my team in attracting new partners and foundations. We developed initiatives that would help thousands of people worldwide, especially in my homeland, Ukraine. I greatly appreciate my team’s support and the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals. I hope that I will soon be able to contribute to the reconstruction of Ukraine with what I have learned here in Austria.

I was interested in learning more about the projects that Caritas implements in Ukraine, and I received tasks to research Ukrainian-related topics. I was also fortunate to have meetings with representatives from Caritas Ukraine, where I learned more about the current situation and their important work.

It is difficult to compare working in Ukraine with working abroad, as these experiences are quite different. I have changed fields and roles, so it is challenging to draw a clear conclusion. One notable difference is how organizations are structured. In Austria, they use a lot of digital tools and custom software to get work done faster. Employees have more independence in decision-making and greater responsibility. In Ukraine, there used to be more centralized control, requiring approval from management for various tasks. In today’s Ukraine, organizations and companies must quickly address new challenges, so I believe work processes have changed significantly.

On the other hand, employees in Ukraine tend to be more flexible and confident benefitting from the familiar environment and native language, which facilitates quicker access to information. When living abroad, language improvement is an aspect we always need to work on, but it is a rewarding challenge. I noticed that communication flowed more easily with Ukrainian colleagues because we shared a common language and cultural understanding. However, in Austria, where colleagues come from diverse cultural backgrounds and speak different languages, effective cooperation can take longer to establish. It requires effort and patience to find common ground and understand each other’s cultural nuances, but it also brings exceptional value. Diversity means celebrating a variety of experiences and perspectives.

The moment during the internship that left a lasting impression on me was when I assisted colleagues from a partner organization of Caritas Austria in Kharkiv in meeting the Austrian press. Despite difficult conditions and life-threatening situations, the Social Aid Service team in Kharkiv is accomplishing superhuman actions. Thanks to donations and public funds, they distribute food and hygiene packages, offer psychosocial support to children, support families, provide mobile care for the elderly, and more. The experiences shared by Ukrainian colleagues and the projects they undertake to support people show how they persevere and find strength in helping each other.

At the same time, in the meeting with donors, I observed genuine concern for the current situation in Ukraine and a willingness to offer support. By providing financial assistance, donors feel a sense of involvement and engagement. Fundraising is a very powerful instrument that connects people and brings value to society.

My internship provided a fascinating immersion into the Austrian professional landscape. Observing society through the lens of diverse institutions, NGOs, and organizations was eye-opening for me. It was not just about understanding the challenges, but also witnessing how these organizations tackle them through projects and collaboration that truly resonated.

My key insights include the importance of being open to each opportunity and open to communication with various people. By combining our mutual efforts, we have power in our hands and can act more efficiently together!

PLANS AFTER PARTICIPATING IN THE PROGRAM

I would like to develop and implement projects that will be beneficial for Ukrainian society and continue progressing in international partnerships and project management. With proficiency in multiple languages and experience collaborating with international teams, I believe I have the resources and skills to advance professionally and make a meaningful impact on the progress of Ukrainian society. 

In my opinion, the European experience would be particularly valuable for Ukraine in several areas. Firstly, implementing best practices in governance, education, healthcare, and infrastructure development can greatly contribute to Ukraine’s progress. Secondly, adopting European practices in organizational management and transparency could strengthen Ukrainian NGOs and institutions. Furthermore, learning from European fundraising strategies can help diversify funding sources and engage with partners more effectively. Partnering with European organizations enables access to expertise, resources, and larger networks. Overall, adopting European experience in these areas can significantly benefit Ukraine’s development journey and contribute to positive societal changes.

Series of Interviews with Participants of the Professional Integration HUB Program.

Kateryna Tebiakina, Participant of the Professional Integration HUB 1.0 internship program (European Forum Alpbach).

• Age: 23 years old
• City in Ukraine where you lived before the full-scale invasion (forced relocation): Kyiv
• Specialization: BA in International Relations 

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND

In Ukraine, I worked on international development projects. For three years, I was with the USAID RANG Program, which focused on advancing the “next generation” of reforms in the Verkhovna Rada. This program aimed to support the Rada in becoming a modern, effective institution that promotes accountability and democratic development. At the beginning of the war, we had to mobilize our efforts to contribute to the establishment of peace more quickly and to develop the diplomatic functions of the parliament. Currently, the sector of international development projects in Ukraine is experiencing significant growth, driven by an increase in humanitarian and educational initiatives.

FORCED EMIGRATION

A few weeks before the full-scale invasion, following the evacuation of the American embassy, USAID recommended that all its employees and projects move to safer areas. Therefore, I moved to Kropyvnitskyi, where I spent the first two weeks of the war. After those two weeks, I decided to temporarily move to Europe, choosing Austria somewhat spontaneously.

LIFE IN AUSTRIA

Even though life in Austria was quite hectic initially, I was very lucky to meet incredible people at every step of the way, with whom I could share my journey and who taught me a lot. I’m very grateful for the support from my friends and colleagues, as well as my family back in Ukraine.

And though life can be very uncertain, what really helped me adapt to the new reality was establishing a routine. Whether through school, university, or a job, having a structured daily life provides the stability needed in the often uncertain situation of emigration. Initially, life was dominated by lots of paperwork, misunderstandings over the phone, and endless appointments at various institutions. However, establishing a routine was crucial in helping me feel settled and somewhat in control.

PROFESSIONAL INTEGRATION HUB

I first heard about the Professional Integration Hub through a friend in Ukraine. She sent me a link and encouraged me to apply. Even though I already had a job, I was intrigued by the opportunity to meet new, inspiring people, so I decided to give it a shot. My experience with the HUB and the hosting organization turned out to be great.

At the European Forum Alpbach, I was greeted with a warm welcome. The team there was fantastic – supportive, enthusiastic, and genuinely passionate about their work. It was a pleasure to see them in action and to collaborate with such dedicated individuals.

My key expectation when joining the HUB was to meet great people, and I can confidently say this expectation was more than fulfilled.

PLANS AFTER PARTICIPATING IN THE PROGRAM

The biggest highlight for me at Alpbach was witnessing how a small team could plan and manage a massive two-week conference, hosting 4,000 people, one meeting at a time. Conferences and public events play a crucial role in international development and technical assistance projects, and I’m excited to share the insights with the teams I used to work with back in Ukraine. I believe many of these instruments and strategies will be extremely valuable to them.

Series of Interviews with Participants of the Professional Integration HUB Program.

On May 29th, we held the final conference for the Professional Integration HUB program. This event featured representatives from ERSTE Foundation, the European Centre for Freedom and Independence, and various institutions and organizations that supported the program as internship partners.

Inspiring speeches were given by Yana Barinova, ERSTE Foundation’s Manager for European Policies and Relations with Ukraine, Olena Bekreniova and Olga Olefirova, co-founders of the European Centre for Freedom and Independence.

“I am incredibly proud to be a part of such an important project and so happy about our interns. Thirteen remarkable Ukrainian women completed internships at some of the most influential institutions and organizations in Austria, showcasing the high level of qualifications that Ukrainian professionals possess,” Yana Barinova commented.

The stars of the conference were, of course, the participants of the Professional Integration HUB. Each of them delivered a presentation summarizing their internship experience, sharing recommendations for Ukraine based on their internships, and expressing their gratitude for this crucial opportunity to enter the Austrian professional environment.

Olena Bekreniova shared, “This program has not only provided invaluable professional experiences for our participants but also fostered stronger ties between Ukraine and Austria. The insights and recommendations from our interns will undoubtedly contribute to the future development of our country.”

Olga Olefirova added, “The Program has exceeded its initial frameworks. Seeing the growth and resilience of these incredible women has been truly inspiring. Their success in integrating into the Austrian professional environment demonstrates the strength and potential of Ukrainian specialists. We look forward to continuing this journey.”

The highlight of the event was the ceremonial presentation of certificates to the participants for completing internships at leading institutions and organizations in Austria.

We are incredibly proud of our participants and grateful to all our partners for their support!

Olena Tereshchuk, Participant of the Professional Integration HUB 1.0 Program (ÖIF).

• Age: 37 years old
• City in Ukraine where you lived before the full-scale invasion (forced relocation): Kyiv
• Specialization:  Master’s degree in financial law and taxation (Lawyer)

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND

I served as the Chief Operating Officer and Business Development Director at MORIS GROUP LAW COMPANY from March 2016 to December 2023. I possess 8 years of professional experience at the national level, specializing in advocating for and implementing strategic organizational initiatives across various operational management domains. These include business management, administration, operations, project management, financial management and reporting, budgeting, legal supervision, human resources, and business development.

I consider myself a successful top manager in Ukraine. My former company provided me with significant opportunities that have been crucial in shaping my personal and professional success. Prior to the outbreak of the war, my job was not just a career but also my greatest passion. I was fueled by ambitious goals, engaging projects, a supportive team, and exciting plans for the future. The pre-war legal market was vibrant and dynamic, characterized by significant investment projects, government initiatives, social projects, and extensive business development networks. However, the outbreak of war suddenly redirected the legal market’s focus from development to survival. 

FORCED EMIGRATION

The war reached our home in Kyiv at 5 a.m. on the 22nd of February. My husband, our one-year-old daughter, our two dogs, and I were filled with fear. We packed our belongings chaotically into the cars and, driven by primal fear, fled Kyiv with no clear destination. It took us six hours just to reach the highway, and we decided to head towards the Ukrainian border with Slovakia.

At midnight, my daughter and I crossed the border on foot, leaving our previous lives behind. With the help of volunteers, we managed to catch a train in Košice, and after ten hours, we arrived in Vienna. By the 23rd of February, we were in Vienna, driven solely by fear. We were given shelter for a month by people who knew my mother-in-law. We had no choice but to rely on luck and God’s mercy.

LIFE IN AUSTRIA

The first year was filled with expectations. I thought I’d be home in two weeks, but it wasn’t meant to be. The challenges were the same as for everyone else: finding a place to live, figuring out transportation, obtaining medicine and medical treatment for my child, finding clothes, toiletries, and so on.

In the second year of the full-scale war, I realized that I needed to do more than just wait. I took my first step toward integration by enrolling in German courses and starting to look for a job. This remains my biggest challenge: maintaining my professional skills and leveraging my experience in the Austrian labor market.

The reality is harsh. You are alone with your problems in a new environment, struggling with a significant language barrier, a lack of social connections, and being outside your professional field. My decision to stay here until the war ends is driven only by my daughter’s safety and well-being. If it weren’t for her, I would never have left Ukraine.

PROFESSIONAL INTEGRATION HUB

I came across an application the Professional Integration HUB on social media and applied for it. I was desperate at the time and didn’t expect it to change my life so quickly. By that point, I had applied for at least 60 jobs and received only negative responses.

I am grateful for this opportunity. It has been an amazing journey, during which I have met so many wonderful people and regained my hope for a stable and normal life. I have increased my self-confidence, boosted my CV, and now understand that Ukrainian specialists are a strong competitive force in the Austrian labor market.

PLANS AFTER PARTICIPATING IN THE PROGRAM 

After this internship, I know what I need to do to be successful in my career here. I understand how and where to broaden my experience and how to adapt it to the post-war reality in Ukraine by implementing new projects. Now, I can face new challenges with greater confidence. I am on my way to a new life, and I am hopeful that I will succeed.

Series of Interviews with Participants of the Professional Integration HUB Program.