Starting a Business After the War: The Story of Vitalii Budenchuk

Vitalii Budenchuk did not return from the war empty-handed — he came back with experience that changes a person forever and with a big heart that has room for a new dream.

“After the frontline, you feel the value of simple things especially sharply: silence, conversations, warmth, and the presence of those who understand without unnecessary words,” Vitalii shares.

This is how the idea of his own coffee shop was born. Not just a business, but a meeting place. A place where you can stop by for a coffee and stay for a conversation. A place where veterans and women veterans can be themselves — without explanations, without tension, among their own.

Participation in the project “Reintegration of War Veterans and Women Veterans through Creating Educational Opportunities: ‘Svoi dlia Svoikh’” became a point of support for him. The training, encouragement, and belief from our Foundation’s team helped him see that his dream is truly achievable. The grant he received became not only financial assistance, but also a sign of trust and support.

“After the war, it’s very important to have a place you want to come to. A place where no one asks unnecessary questions, but simply pours you a cup of coffee and says, ‘Glad to see you.’ I want to create exactly such a space,” Vitalii says.

Vitalii’s future coffee shop is about warmth, humanity, and a new beginning. About the aroma of freshly ground coffee, quiet conversations, and the feeling that you are not alone. Vitalii’s story is yet another confirmation of how education, support, and the opportunity to believe in yourself help veterans find their path in peaceful life.

By our own — for our own. And it is from stories like these that a true return home begins.

Finally, Vitalii sends his greetings and New Year wishes to his brothers-in-arms and all Ukrainians:

“I wish my brothers-in-arms strength, good health, and the support of their loved ones. May everyone find their own path in peaceful life. I wish Ukrainian families unity, warmth in their homes, and faith in our victory. May the New Year bring peace, recovery, and hope to all of Ukraine.”

Dream. Act. Victory is daily work and struggle.

The project “Reintegration of War Veterans through the Creation of Educational Opportunities: Ours for Ours”, implemented by the “Public Resources and Initiatives” Charity Foundation in partnership with DVV International in Ukraine with the support of the Federal Foreign Office of Germany.