We share the story of a graduate of the certificate (microcredential) programme “TURBO: an educational programme for the development of small and medium-sized businesses” — Iryna Savenko, who has rethought her approaches to learning, business, and personal development.

Iryna Savenko is originally from the city of Luhansk. She has been forced to relocate within Ukraine for the fourth time and currently lives in the city of Pryluky, Chernihiv region.

“My profession is an English language teacher, and it is something I can apply anywhere, in any place where I am.”

In May 2017, Iryna officially registered as an entrepreneur and founded the English language studio “YES”. Today, she is a social entrepreneur, civic activist, and trainer.

 On motivation: what was the decisive factor for participating in the programme

“First of all, I trust the university. When I saw this opportunity, I gladly joined. After reviewing the programme, I realized that it was exactly what I needed, because at that time the marketing component was still ‘behind closed doors’ for me. I had not been able to fully implement it in my work on my own.

Secondly, we worked on website creation, and this IT component was quite challenging for me, but at the same time very useful.

A few years ago, I had already written a business plan and received a grant to develop my business after one of my relocations. However, after certain events, when there was a drone strike and I lost part of my equipment and furniture, I planned to apply again for another grant to set up a language studio in a new place.

Therefore, the programme content was very important, useful, and extremely relevant for me at that time.”

 On learning: from scepticism to new opportunities

“I do not really like online learning — both as a teacher and as a student. I always envied those who could attend classes offline.

However, the online learning process was organized so comfortably and productively that my main achievement was that I reconsidered and changed my attitude to this format. Now I combine online and offline formats in my studio.

All the information was highly practical: we worked with tables, calculated costs, and step by step explored what and how to set up.

Theory is important, but when you can immediately try things out, receive feedback, and make as many attempts as needed — it is extremely valuable.”

 What was the most valuable realization you gained about yourself during the programme?

“The most valuable realization is probably that I can do everything — and even a little more. I realized that I am open to new knowledge.

I also realized that I am always about people, for people, and with people. The personalities of the trainers, their support, and the connection with fellow participants were very important to me. With some of them, we continued communicating after the programme ended.

I understood that information is important, but above all, people matter to me.”

 Which elements of the programme were the most valuable for you and why?

“The most valuable part for me was the business planning module with Valentyna Moskalenko. I am not a technical person, and all those calculations, numbers, and forecasts are quite difficult and not very interesting for me.

However, Valentyna explained everything step by step and in great detail, showing how to make it realistic — not abstract figures, but something tailored specifically to us.

The psychological component was also very important. Right now, it is especially important to support yourself and have an inner resource. The sessions were very comfortable, warm, and diverse. We also worked with metaphorical cards — which was very interesting.

Altogether, it created a comprehensive effect.”

If you had to describe your journey in the programme with one metaphor, what would it be and why?

“There is nothing impossible. Even if I were now faced with the need to create a website, and it seems like something beyond reach, I understand that if necessary, I can do it as well.”

 What advice would you give to those considering participation in TURBO and similar programmes?

“If you come across such an opportunity — take it and act. Especially if the learning is diverse and not narrowly focused on just one thing. Do not stop, even if you face setbacks.

The programme’s trainers are very professional, empathetic, and genuinely human. If something does not work, do not be afraid to say it. You will receive support and attention.

Time has passed, but I only have the warmest memories.

And even when we met offline for the first time after learning online, we did not feel like strangers. During this intensive period of working together, we managed to get to know each other, build connections, and form relationships that continue into the future.”

The main aim of TURBO project “The Universities’ Reaction to Big Obstructions: Building resilient higher education to respond and manage societal crises” is to increase the resilience, preparedness and responsiveness of Ukrainian higher education institutions (HEIs) by building their capacities, improving competencies and sharing experiences.

This project has received funding from the European Union (ERASMUS-EDU-2023-CBHE) under grant agreement No 101129315.

This material reflects only the views of the authors and does not necessarily represent the official position of the European Union.