“A Resilience Journey” Documentary | Three Years On: Supporting Roma Refugees from Ukraine
“A Resilience Journey” Documentary
Three years have elapsed since the onset of the war in Ukraine, and its devastating effects profoundly impact the lives of Ukrainians. From the outset, our foundation, with the generous backing of the Council of Europe Development Bank (CEB)’s Migrant and Refugee Fund, has proactively addressed the challenges faced by displaced Roma refugees by establishing the One-Stop-Shop (OSS) Center. This dedicated educational and support hub provides essential resources and empowers Roma refugees from Ukraine to rebuild their lives.
Watch “A Resilience Journey,” a video story that highlights the experiences, strength, and determination of Roma refugees, along with the unwavering support from our community. Hear the stories of Rada and Nadiia, two mothers striving to keep their children safe while dreaming of their homeland and the relatives they left behind, some of whom are fighting against the aggressor. Meet Izaura and Alla, two refugees from Ukraine who have been integral members of our team for the past two years.
About the One-Stop-Shop Center
Our work at the OSS Center goes beyond simply providing a safe space. Throughout the week, nearly 90 children and adults spend 4-5 hours daily engaged in a range of activities designed to foster growth and resilience. Our comprehensive program focuses on several key areas:
- Educational Support – We offer tutoring and educational resources to help children stay on track with their studies and develop essential literacy and numeracy skills.
- Social Integration – Activities are designed to help refugees integrate into the local community, fostering social skills and building a sense of belonging.
- Psychological Support – We provide counseling and mental health services to help individuals cope with trauma and build emotional resilience.
- Vocational Training – Adults have access to vocational training programs that equip them with skills needed for employment and self-sufficiency.
- Cultural Activities – We organize cultural events and activities that celebrate the heritage of the Roma community, promoting pride and cultural continuity.
Digital transformation and empowerment are key strategic goals for our organization. To equip children with the skills they need to succeed, we have partnered with Accenture Romania for the Digital Skills Academy. In January 2025, the children began a new eight-week training program with the Academy’s dedicated volunteers. This collaboration highlights the power of partnership in supporting vulnerable youth and promoting equal access to learning and development opportunities in the digital age.
Recognizing the importance of individualized attention, we also utilize peer-to-peer intervention for academic support and have engaged a pedagogy expert. Through regular meetings with children and families, and with carefully planned activities aligned with clear objectives, we’ve established a focused educational path to enhance their knowledge and engagement. This holistic approach ensures that both children and adults receive the support they need to rebuild their lives and thrive in their new environment.
The Path to a Stronger Ukraine
A strong economy is the key to sustainable growth, national defence, and retaining human capital. Ukrainians must be able to fulfil their ambitions. For this to happen, Roma communities must be recognized as central to its future. More than one-third of Roma in Ukraine are under the age of 15. This demographic reality underscores a broader truth: Ukraine’s ability to rebuild depends on ensuring that young Roma people—its future workforce, educators, and healthcare providers—have access to education, vocational training, and economic opportunities. According to the Roma Foundation for Europe’s “Fighting for a Fairer Future” report, one-quarter of surveyed Roma families have members serving in Ukraine’s military, with one-third of them volunteering. Their experience is an epitome of a tremendous commitment to their homeland. Their dedication and sacrifice highlight the vital role the Roma community plays in defending Ukraine and building its future.
