Together. About People. About the Future

On 29 January 2026, a round table titled “Reintegration of War Veterans through Educational Opportunities: Experience and Results in Chernivtsi Region” took place at the Chernivtsi Regional Universal Scientific Library named after Mykhailo Ivasyuk.

It was a warm and truly engaging meeting —
about real stories, real challenges, and real support.

During the event, participants summarized the outcomes of the “One plus One” project and once again reaffirmed that:

• education can become a point of stability,
• the community can be a source of strength,
• and people around us are the most valuable resource.

Results That Matter

Within the implementation of the project in Chernivtsi Region, a comprehensive support model for veterans and their family members was developed:
education → mentorship → employment / self-employment.

Key project results include:

• a research study and analytical report “Map of Opportunities for Veterans and Their Family Members in Chernivtsi Region”, which provided a systematic analysis of available educational, psychological, and social services in the region;
• 45 participants completed certified vocational training courses, including accounting basics, massage therapy, and nail services;
• 277 individuals received career, professional, and psychological consultations, as well as ongoing mentorship support;
• a series of trainings was conducted on modern IT professions, financial literacy, communication skills, entrepreneurship, and project management;
• 30 participants took part in business schools (offline and online), worked on developing their own business ideas, and received individual mentoring support;
• 6 grants of UAH 400,000 each were awarded to support the launch and development of veteran-led businesses in agriculture, manufacturing, rehabilitation, and service sectors;
• a number of memoranda of cooperation were signed with public authorities, local communities, and educational institutions, laying an institutional foundation for continued work in 2026.

Participants’ Voices at the Center

The voices of veterans, women veterans, and their family members — project participants — were particularly meaningful during the round table.
Their stories reflected life after war, doubts and courage to start anew, and the rediscovery of self-belief that often emerges through the support of others.

“It was crucial for us not only to provide access to education, but to create a safe and supportive space where veterans are heard, respected, and not left alone with their challenges/ Education is not just about new skills — it is about restoring a sense of self-worth and control over one’s own life,” emphasized Olena Tanasiichuk, President of the Public Resources and Initiatives Charity Foundation.

Discussions with representatives of local communities, professionals, and partners focused on what truly works:

• when decisions are shaped together with veterans,
• when support is comprehensive,
• when communities become active participants in the reintegration process.

“Education, mentorship, and community support are not just about knowledge. They are tools for returning to active life, rebuilding self-confidence, achieving financial independence, and restoring a sense of personal value after the experience of war. In my view, such programs help veterans not only adapt, but also build a future — for themselves, their families, and the country,” noted Oksana Palagecha, mentor and trainer of the project.

Veterans and women veterans — the people thanks to whom our country exists — were at the heart of this meeting.
And it is our shared responsibility to stand by them on their path back to civilian life.

We sincerely thank everyone who joined this important conversation. This round table became another step toward a strong, humane, and responsible Ukraine.