From Learning to Teamwork: Veterans and Veteran Women Take Part in a Camp in Slavske

On September 12-13, veterans taking part in the Automation QA Engineer (AQA) and Military Tech courses travelled to Slavske for a two-day training camp. For 2 days, the usual learning format gave way to teamwork, face-to-face communication, and new experiences. The camp was an opportunity not only to gain new knowledge, but also to get to know each other better, exchange experiences, work as a team, and simply spend time together in a friendly atmosphere.

The programme combined practical topics that are important both for professional development and everyday life.

The participants discussed time management – how to plan their time, set priorities, and get more done without unnecessary overload. Special attention was given to startups – from idea to action.

Participants worked on how to turn an idea into a concrete project, identify the first steps, and move from concept to implementation. Another important part of the programme was the training session “Emotional Intelligence, Problem-Solving and Adaptability.” The participants discussed how to better understand their own emotions, respond to challenging situations, find solutions, and adapt to change. But perhaps the most valuable part of trips like this is what happens outside the training programme. Spending time together, talking, joking, sharing experiences, and making new connections gradually creates a sense of community. And this was exactly what participants highlighted after the camp: they described the trip as interesting, insightful, and full of positive moments.

“The trip brought us closer together and gave us many positive and enjoyable moments and experiences,” one of the participants shared.

And it seems this is the best assessment of the camp. Because learning is not only about gaining new knowledge. It is also about the people around you, shared experiences, support, and moments you want to experience again.

The project is implemented by the NGO “Institute of Social Initiatives” in cooperation with the NGO “Academy for Heroes” and the “Unbreakable” Charitable Foundation, with the support of the Ukrainian Veterans Fund under the Ministry of Veterans Affairs of Ukraine and co-financing from the Askold and Dir Foundation, administered by ISAR Ednannia within the framework of the project “Strong Civil Society of Ukraine – A Driver of Reform and Democracy,” funded by Norway and Sweden.