Today, veterans returning to civilian life face numerous challenges, and one of the biggest is employment after injury when their experience is primarily military.
According to a survey conducted by the Ukrainian Veterans Foundation under the Ministry of Veterans Affairs, more than 57% of veterans face difficulties in employment, with physical condition being the most common barrier. This issue requires immediate action, as millions of people in Ukraine with military experience will eventually return to the labour market after the war ends.
Our partner in prosthetics, Medical Center Orthotics & Prosthetics (MCOP) Ukraine, hosted a workshop and open discussion for veterans on the topic “Life After Injury: Finding New Meaning at Work.”
Speakers included Aliona Skorzova, Deputy Director of the Department for Employment Policy Implementation at the State Employment Service of Ukraine; Hlib Kravchenko, a veteran of the 3rd Separate Assault Brigade and now Head of Recruitment at Airlogix; Andrii Petruk, Director of MCOP Ukraine; and Olena Nikolaienko, President of the Future for Ukraine Foundation in the USA.
During the event, Olena Nikolaienko led a practical workshop for veterans on how to write a CV and present their strengths during a job interview — even when they have little or no civilian work experience.
Olena Nikolaienko. President of the Future for Ukraine Foundation in the USA.“First, you need to honestly assess your skills and how you see yourself in a new profession. Some people feel confident running their own business, while others prefer working in a team. Don’t be afraid to ask for help — there are support programs, communities, and foundations. Your experience is invaluable; it can become the foundation for a new career or business.”
The discussion was moderated by Ukrainian TV host Pavlo Kovalchuk (Novyny.LIVE).
During the open meeting, participants discussed:
- How to return to civilian work after military service and injury;
- How to regain confidence after limb loss;
- Where to find training and professional courses to start anew;
- What opportunities does the labour market offer for veterans?
- Which government programs support veterans in employment?
- How Ukrainian businesses are becoming more veteran-friendly.
The meeting was held as part of the monthly support group for veterans with limb loss, organized by MCOP Ukraine, free of charge for the center’s patients and all interested veterans.
Address: 86D Kazymyra Malevycha St., Kyiv
Prior registration is needed via mobile +380979745996.
Future for Ukraine extends sincere gratitude to our partners at MCOP Ukraine for supporting Ukrainian veterans not only in their recovery path but also in their adaptation to civilian life.
