The YMCA’s Skilling and Support program continues to empower and uplift Ukraine`s next generation facing the challenges brought on by war and displacement. Through courses in 3D modeling, programming, and art, young people like Taras and Anastasia are finding new pathways to growth and personal fulfillment in a safe space, hosted by YMCA Zdolbuniv.
These stories of resilience highlight the transformative impact of YMCA’s educational hubs, where participants gain not only practical skills but also the confidence to pursue new opportunities.
With the support of partners like Accenture, the program is helping thousands of displaced Ukrainians and refugees access tools for empowerment and future employment. These initiatives are a testament to human strength and determination, offering hope and stability in uncertain times.
“My name is Taras Taraman, I am from Donetsk region. Because of the war, I was forced to move to western Ukraine with my family. And now I live in Zdolbuniv. I came to the YMCA Zdolbuniv when I visited their open day for young people. The area that caught my eye was the Education Hub, which offers various courses and workshops to improve skills and abilities, because I always strive to develop my skills and knowledge. At first, I came to the 3D modeling course. I liked the presentation of the material there, the accessibility, and the attention to everyone personally. And then I came to “Programming. Website Development” course. After completing this course, I realized that I really liked the programming direction. In a year I will graduate from high school. And I decided to go to university to study programming. I am also actively involved in various projects, including volunteering, where we make energy bars for the military. And every week I also attend the “Your Opportunities” project at the YMCA Zdolbuniv Space, created for IDPs to help us to integrate better. For those who are just starting their way in the YMCA, I would advise them to be open to new opportunities and always try to learn and develop.” Taras Taraman, 15, student – YMCA Zdolbuniv, Ukraine
Painting as a skill goes beyond creativity—it teaches discipline, attention to detail, and critical thinking. Through painting, individuals develop problem-solving abilities as they learn to work with colors, techniques, and visual composition. It also enhances fine motor skills and patience, both of which are valuable in many career paths.
In the YMCA’s Skilling and Support program, painting workshops empower participants to express themselves while gaining practical skills that can be applied in fields like design, advertising, and art therapy, helping them build a foundation for future opportunities.
“My name is Anastasia Melnychuk. I was born and live in Zdolbuniv. I first learned about the YMCA from my parents. When I saw a post on Instagram about the art workshop, I wanted to visit it because I love to draw. The course was very useful for me, I began to think a little differently, saw other approaches, and acquired new skills. After taking the course, I have significantly improved my drawing skills. I managed to draw a picture that I had never dreamed of before. I will use the knowledge I have gained both at work (advertising) and in life to distract myself and relax.
Everything was at a high level. I am sincerely grateful to the organizers of the educational hub for creating a course where I improved my mental health, for participating in the first exhibition where my work was also presented. Special thanks to the trainer Oksana Mikheeva for the knowledge gained and for her creative approach.” Anastasia Melnychuk, 20, student – YMCA Zdolbuniv, 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
