ASPIRE-VET: a project for the social inclusion and employment reintegration of Ukrainian veterans

Supporting those returning from the frontlines through the difficult journey back to civilian life means providing them with practical tools to rebuild their future. With this goal in mind, the Valter Baldaccini Foundation supported the social project “ASPIRE-VET – Developing Soft Skills for Veterans’ Professional Integration”, implemented in collaboration with Lviv Polytechnic National University.

A social project addressing a concrete challenge

The two-month ASPIRE-VET social project was created to address one of the challenges facing Ukraine: promoting the employment reintegration and social inclusion of a group of men who have fought in the war by developing transferable skills that are increasingly in demand in today’s labour market.

The ASPIRE-VET social project programme: 24 Ukrainian veterans, 13 training sessions

The programme involved 24 Ukrainian veterans who were undertaking professional retraining or seeking new employment opportunities in the civilian sector. During the course, they took part in 13 training sessions, including courses and practical workshops, focusing on effective communication, leadership, emotional management, teamwork, critical thinking, time management, career guidance and employment reintegration.

The activities were designed and delivered by the Department of Management of Organisations at Lviv Polytechnic National University, under the guidance of Associate Professor Mariana Gvozd, with the involvement of a multidisciplinary team of university lecturers and the support of the Italian-Ukrainian Cooperation Centre “Leonardo da Vinci”.

Investing in those who have served on the frontlines: not just skills, but community

The ASPIRE-VET social project went beyond simply transferring technical skills. Through practical exercises, simulations, individual coaching and opportunities for discussion, ASPIRE-VET provided participants with a space to rebuild their confidence, recognise the value of their experience and prepare for a new chapter in their lives.

At the end of the course, a community of former participants was also established, which will continue to support its members through the exchange of experiences, job opportunities and personal development initiatives.

The voices of Ukrainian veterans: stories from the programme

The meaning and importance of this social and employmentinclusion project are best expressed through the testimonies of those who took part in the training programme: “These were not just courses, but a space where we were listened to.”

For many, the greatest value was no longer feeling alone. “The most valuable thing I take away is not just what I have learned, but the community we have built. We continue to exchange ideas, share job opportunities and support one another.”

Some participants spoke about finally finding the tools to face a job interview after returning from the frontlines. “I have learned how to present my military experience in the civilian workplace. I have already received two invitations for job interviews. This project is an investment in people.”

Others highlighted the human value of the experience. “For the first time in a long while, I was able to reflect calmly on my future. I felt respected, listened to and supported.”

A partnership looking to the future: the Valter Baldaccini Foundation and Lviv Polytechnic National University

The partnership between the Valter Baldaccini Foundation and Lviv Polytechnic National University has been active since 2023. Initially, the social projects focused on young people and women fleeing border areas most severely affected by the conflict. However, as the war has continued, people's needs and priorities have also evolved.

The ASPIRE-VET social project reaffirms the value of the collaboration between the Valter Baldaccini Foundation and Lviv Polytechnic National University, which is founded on the belief that training, education and international cooperation can provide practical tools to support people experiencing hardship, even in the most challenging circumstances.

Investing in skills development means creating opportunities for independence, dignity and social inclusion, while contributing to the reconstruction of Ukraine’s social and professional fabric.