99 Reasons “Why”: East SOS Launches Professional Training Courses

Relocation, job loss, uncertainty, and the need to rebuild life from scratch – war has forced millions of Ukrainians to adapt to entirely new realities. Often far from home, people are searching for stability, support, and new opportunities to move forward. In these circumstances, education becomes a powerful tool: it helps individuals adapt, find employment, and regain financial independence.

At the psychosocial and legal support center Zatyshno Space, run by East SOS, professional training courses are an integral part of a comprehensive support program. We assist job seekers in building strong resumes, preparing for interviews, identifying their strengths, and connecting with specialists who support career transitions. For those ready to start a new professional path, we offer free training opportunities.

Recently, in three frontline cities, 99 participants chose growth and new beginnings by mastering in-demand skills. In Mykolaiv, the second round of graphic design training was successfully completed. In Kharkiv and Zaporizhzhia, participants attended the course “Accounting for Individual Entrepreneurs: From Zero to Confidence,” which included a dedicated “Excel from A to Z” module. In addition, SMM basics training was held across all three cities.

“I’ve had a disability since childhood, but I want to start my own business and promote it online. I recently completed a home appliance repair course and received a certificate. My father will help me with the work – and he’ll also be taking your training,” says Anton, a participant in the “SMM Start: Instagram, Facebook, TikTok” course in Kharkiv.

For 58-year-old Larysa from Vasylivka in the Zaporizhzhia region, joining the “Excel from A to Z” course is an important step toward rebuilding her life.

“After my concussion, I partially lost my memory, so I have to start my life over – remembering some things and relearning others to adapt to new circumstances,” she shares.

Behind every participant is a personal answer to the question: “Why am I doing this?” A new job, a career change, a long-postponed idea finally taking shape – these are just a few reasons. And we know there are at least 99 more.

The Zatyshno Space centers in Mykolaiv, Kharkiv, and Zaporizhzhia operate as part of the project “Protection and Essential Psychosocial Support for War-Affected Residents in Frontline Areas,” with financial support from the German Federal Foreign Office.

In December 2025, 157 participants completed six courses focused on professional development and self-care.