YMCA’s Life-Changing Skilling and Support for Ukraine showcases the indomitable spirit of Ukrainians as they overcome adversity brought on by the war, standing as a testament to human strength and determination.
These stories of triumph and transformation are not just tales of survival but also of personal growth, fueled by the unwavering support of the YMCA and its diverse skilling and support program.
The YMCA Lutsk’s photography workshops are empowering individuals with creative skills that not only foster personal growth but also open doors to new entrepreneurial opportunities.
By teaching essential techniques in lighting, composition, and photo processing, participants are gaining valuable tools that enhance their professional portfolios. For many, like freelance journalists and photographers, these workshops have become a pathway to more frequent work opportunities, contributing to their livelihoods and fostering self-reliance.
This initiative is a key component of YMCA’s broader skilling and support program, helping individuals build resilience and economic independence in the face of adversity.
“I want to thank you for the mobile photography classes. Kwledge of lighting and photo processing was very useful for me. Since I work as a freelance journalist, a lot depends on the photo: whether my material will be published or not. After the course, I began to be invited more often to cover events, because I began to take much brighter photos.” Galyna – Lutsk, Ukraine
“I had an incredible opportunity to attend two cool photography courses. As a photographer myself, I can say that there was a lot of cool and practical information with the help of which I was able to gain new knowledge about light and work in general, both in the studio and at home. This experience had a good effect on my work as a photographer!” Oleksandra – Lutsk, Ukraine
Read more stories of individuals who have exhibited remarkable tenacity, conquered their fears, and navigated the tumultuous waters of war and displacement to find hope even in the darkest of times.
Powered by Accenture, “Refugee Skilling and Support” project addresses an immediate and clear need enabling tens of thousands of beneficiaries from the communities affected by the war in Ukraine, leveraging YMCA’s existing and significant pan-Europe presence by establishing community hubs that assist in skills development and connecting to employment opportunities – and other wrap-around services – for Ukraine refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs) in a holistic way.
ACC I & II Infographics by YMCA Europe