Ukrainian refugees

Ukrainian refugees abroad: from simple jobs to their own business and careers in prestigious professions

The war brought incredible shocks to millions of Ukrainians, forcing them to leave their homes and seek safety in other countries. For many, this forced relocation was not only a challenge, but also an opportunity to review their lives, gain new experience and build a career in an unfamiliar environment. Many of our compatriots started their journey with the simplest job, but after several years of adaptation, Ukrainians were able to prove that they are capable of achieving success even in the most difficult circumstances.

The first days in the new place were extremely difficult. The war uprooted people: they left everything they had and went to foreign countries where they did not know the language, rules and cultural characteristics. For many, it became a test of endurance and faith in their own strength. However, Ukrainians, known for their hard work and perseverance, quickly began to get used to it. They looked for any opportunity to work, study and integrate into new communities. Since the beginning of a full-scale war, we we see the results of this colossal work: Ukrainians in different countries not only became a full-fledged part of the societies that accepted them, but also opened new horizons for themselves and their families.

For example, Valentina, who came to Germany in March 2022 from the Kharkiv region, was able to overcome many difficulties. At first, she worked as a cleaner in apartments, because she did not know the language and did not have the opportunity to find a job in her specialty. At the same time, Valentina persistently studied the German language, because she understood that without it she would not be able to achieve what she wanted. Her son studied at a German school and at the same time continued online classes according to the Ukrainian program, which added difficulties for the family. However, Valentina’s perseverance paid off: now she works in a travel company and is undergoing training that will allow her to fully realize herself in this field.

See also  Integration and Education Center “Ukrainian Hive” in Sofia: Supporting Ukrainian refugees in Bulgaria

Nastya, who moved to Germany with her parents, tells a similar story. She immediately started learning the language, and in order to support herself, she got a job as a waitress in a cafe. Currently, Nastya plans to return to the medical field, in which she worked before the war. Her parents also found work: her mother works in a cleaning company, and her father does repairs. The family gradually becomes financially independent, although each of them dreams of returning to Ukraine after the end of the war.

Ukrainians who moved to Poland managed to prove themselves in various fields. For example, Natalia from Poltava region opened her own beauty salon. At first, she worked as a manicurist at home, but thanks to her professional skills, she quickly gained popularity and expanded her business. Currently, her salon serves many clients, and Nataliya herself has employed two more Ukrainian women who are also looking for sales opportunities.

Oksana from the Kherson region chose a different path: in Poland, she opened a culinary company together with several compatriots. Women prepare traditional Ukrainian dishes, such as dumplings, pies, dumplings, and sell them among local residents. This not only allowed Oksana to provide for her family, but also to popularize Ukrainian culture abroad.

A significant part of Ukrainians found themselves in the IT sphere. Daryna, who moved to Canada with her parents, managed to get a job in an international company thanks to her knowledge of English and professional skills. To improve her skills, she took advantage of the opportunity to take free courses for Ukrainians. Her story is a vivid example of how persistence and willingness to work can change lives.

For in words president of the All-Ukrainian Association of International Employment Companies Vasyl Voskoboynyk, 22% of Ukrainians were officially employed in Germany, and 70% in Poland.

“This shows that Poland has long been included in the process of employment of foreigners, it made a bet on the employment of people without qualifications. And Germany, on the contrary, makes a bet on the employment of people with knowledge of the language, who are more professional. Those who came there in 2022, immediately signed up for language courses, improved their qualifications, but all this took time.

See also  A new automated system of customs clearance has been implemented at all road crossing points of the state border

Of course, a lawyer or accountant who came to Germany must first learn the language at the C1 level, as well as local legislation, then confirm his qualifications, pass an exam and then start working. Of course, some people have already gone all this way and work in offices, companies, firms.” Voskoboynyk said.

Educators are also actively integrating into foreign societies. Vasyl, a history teacher who moved to Slovakia, teaches Ukrainian children and at the same time popularizes knowledge of history through his educational channel on social networks. Its activities aim to support Ukrainians abroad and preserve their connection with their native culture.

The successes of Ukrainians abroad have become possible thanks to their ability to adapt and perseverance. They work in various fields: from unskilled labor to highly qualified professions in business, IT, education, and medicine. Despite the difficulties, each of them strives not only to provide for themselves and their families, but also to continue to believe in the possibility of returning to their native land after victory.

However, for many, this return depends on what conditions will be like in Ukraine after the end of the war. Issues of security, housing, work and infrastructure will become crucial for those who are now building a new life abroad. Ukrainians abroad proved that success can be achieved even in the most difficult times. Their stories are not only an example of fortitude, but also a lesson in how important it is to never lose faith in your own abilities.

 

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Related Articles

Back to top button