Solutions from Ukraine: experts collaborate on online project to create accessible work environment for veterans

A project has been launched in Ukraine that aims to gather expert advice on creating a learning-friendly work environment for veterans.

Rubryka writes about this.

What is the problem?

According to a sociological study by Women in Tech (WiT), 85% of Ukrainians surveyed believe veterans face challenges when reintegrating into civilian life. The top five issues identified are job loss or difficulties with employment.

However, not all Ukrainian companies possess the knowledge to assist veterans in adapting to new environments. This is mainly due to a lack of understanding of veterans' psychology and needs and insufficient knowledge of how to create an inclusive work environment.

"When we asked companies what practices they already had in place, we realized that they didn't have structured information on how to interview veterans; how to recruit; what to ask correctly and what not to ask; how to onboard; how to communicate with colleagues. That is, most companies have no experience recruiting veterans," Anna Panchenko, WiT project manager, explains.

What is the solution?

The WiT organization has launched a new initiative called "Platform of Inclusion in Ukrainian Business," which aims to educate individuals on enhancing the workplace and making it inclusive and applicable for all.

The platform contains two blocks:

• training for Ukrainian business representatives,
• and expert advice for veterans in their job search.

Anna Panchenko believes that although Ukrainian business is currently not inclusive enough, these practices must be implemented to help veterans return to the work environment faster and easier.

How does it work?

The company's training sessions cover various topics, such as effective communication with colleagues, creating an inclusive workplace, enhancing company culture, and promoting inclusivity within the team.

The platform also provides lectures and workshops specifically for veterans. These include interviews with a psychologist, practical advice for succeeding in job interviews, and tips for adjusting to a new work environment.

"It is incredibly challenging for someone with no interview experience. During one particular interview, a veteran confessed that he struggles with "self-promotion." When asked about his strengths, he could not articulate or analyze them. Our specialist assisted him in this aspect," Anna says.

Some of the invited experts included:

• Olha Novikova, the CEO of MoreThan, a company that focuses on creating inclusive practices for businesses;
• Volodymyr Halashchuk, a military psychologist who discussed the psychology of the army and effective communication;
• Karl Plesner, an international expert in rebuilding social relationships after destructive situations;
• Artem Doronin, a civilian psychologist who spoke about interacting with colleagues;
• and numerous other specialists with recruiting, HR, and psychology knowledge.

The team aims to further develop the platform in the future and incorporate the feature of posting job openings for veterans.