Yulia's Story
Before the war, Yulia and her husband enjoyed their life in Kharkiv. They both had good jobs and planned to have a child. The war has changed everything.
On this page
What is Work Matters?
Work transforms lives. It gives us purpose and critically, it enables us to provide for our families and make decisions about our futures.
Work is even more important in times of crisis. For Ukrainians, that crisis is war and it’s happening right now. Work enables Ukrainians impacted by war to buy life-saving supplies, find a sense of much-needed normality and take control over their own lives.
The future of this war is uncertain. But we do know, regardless of what happens, employment will be critical in helping Ukrainians survive and rebuild their country.
The problem
The unemployment rate across Ukraine has skyrocketed following Russia’s brutal assault. Despite this, Ukrainian companies are experiencing a significant labour shortage, largely due to internal displacement, migration, childcare responsibilities and military service. This results in a workforce with reduced networks, a lack of relevant skills or knowledge to fill the jobs that are available and very poor mental health.
In addition, 6.8 million Ukrainians have been forced to leave everything behind and flee to countries such as Poland, Moldova, and the UK. Arriving as refugees, they face significant challenges: language barriers, a lack of network and an unfamiliarity with the job market. This makes integration incredibly difficult.
1 in 7
Ukrainians are unemployed
1 in 2
internally displaced Ukrainians are unemployed
55%
Ukrainian companies experiencing labour shortage
For Ukrainians, Work Matters more than ever
Since war broke out, we have economically empowered thousands of people in Ukraine, achieving an impressive employment rate of 53% – including for internally displaced people. At the same time, we have supported over 14,000 Ukrainian refugees to find sustainable employment, engage in self-employment or launch a business and start rebuilding lives of self-reliance and dignity. But it isn’t enough.
Stories of Impact
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Svetlana's Story
Before the war, 57-year-old Svetlana led a comfortable life, running a small business from the flat that she owned. She was happy and confident in her future. The war changed everything.
Liudmyla's Story
For Liudymla and her family, life was straight forward before the war. They had a home, a routine, and a future they could plan for. Liudmyla worked as a manicurist - but that all changed.
Oleksandr's Story
A former prize-winning boxer, Oleksandr had built a successful life as a gym owner and government sports director before war forced him and his family to flee Ukraine.
If you believe that Work Matters, then join us.
Work Matters is a committed, inspiring and purpose-driven community of professionals and entrepreneurs across the UK, committed to transforming the lives of more than 6,000 Ukrainians through our employment projects. By joining us, you will
- Receive exclusive opportunities to attend events with highly respected speakers
- Engage in meaningful conversations with other like-minded professionals through our private online Work Matters space.
- Witness World Jewish Relief’s life-changing work in action and see how your support is transforming lives.
If you believe that Work Matters, then you can find out more by reaching out to our Director of Philanthropy, Alisa Avigdor, at Alisa@worldjewishrelief.org.
