Single mothers who were forced to flee Ukraine face incredible challenges in Germany. As Ukrainian women with children, often finding themselves in emergency shelters for the first time outside their homeland and mostly without language skills, pursuing a career or further education seems nearly impossible. Another factor that hinders economic development is that most people—especially children—who had to flee war and violence are traumatized to some extent. Currently, only 17% of employable Ukrainian refugees in Germany have a job. Most Ukrainian women want to return to their homeland after the war. Unlike people from Syria and Afghanistan, it is already possible to travel to Ukraine and either see their partners on leave from the front lines or decide on-site whether it is feasible to return. These individual considerations prevent people from building a career and a new life in Germany. After analyzing the current situation, we have developed a pragmatic solution model to empower women, particularly those with an academic background or who have run businesses and companies independently.
The Re:Build Ukraine: Mentor & Protégé Program offers Ukrainian single mothers (Protégées) the opportunity to further their education through one-on-one mentorship with professionals (Mentors) in their desired field, remotely and at times that suit the women’s schedules for coaching and instruction. Through this program, they can develop business ideas, improve their English skills, and gain the necessary tools for entrepreneurial activities or building their own businesses. The program is a pilot project, and its structure can be implemented anywhere if successful, with the goal of scalability and open-source accessibility.
Each single mother is paired with a mentor who supports her in achieving her individual goals. Mentors assist in the development and implementation of business ideas and deepen the entrepreneurial knowledge of the protégées. Goals, deadlines, and processes are jointly established to ensure efficient collaboration. The program offers flexible remote learning options through online one-on-one instruction and meetings. It helps the mothers become self-sufficient, independent, and productive members of society. Special attention is given to the specific challenges these women face, such as trauma, language barriers, and the lack of support networks. The program fosters trust and good communication between mentor and protégé and addresses psychological needs. The mentors are thoroughly prepared to provide the best possible support.
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