Irina Kononenko served as the contact person for Ukrainian teachers in the MovED by Mentoring program 2024. She shares her motivation for volunteering with the initiative and how it empowered her along the way.
Why I Joined the MovED Project: Irina's Story
My name is Irina, I am from Ukraine. For 17 years, I worked in the financial sector of a large international company as a treasury specialist. I’ve always thrived in teamwork—collaborating with others, sharing ideas, and working toward a common goal gives me a sense of purpose and fulfillment. I love being part of something bigger than myself and finding ways to be helpful to others.
When the war in Ukraine began, my family and I relocated to Helsinki. It was a difficult adjustment—being in a safe place while my country faced unimaginable hardships. I constantly felt the need to contribute, to do something meaningful for my fellow Ukrainians. That’s when I discovered the MovED project, and I realized it was the opportunity I had been searching for.
MovED brought me into a community of people who shared my desire to make a difference. Why this project? Because through MovED, we support teachers who, in turn, shape the lives of hundreds of children. By helping one teacher, we're indirectly impacting many young lives—the future of Ukraine.
Joining MovED has given me a new sense of purpose. I’ve been able to use my skills and passion to support a cause that’s deeply aligned with my values. Together with like-minded individuals, I’m contributing to the well-being and education of Ukrainian children, offering them hope and the possibility of a brighter future.
This experience has reminded me of the power of collective action. When people come together with a shared vision, the impact can be profound. In this journey with MovED, I’ve found inspiration and a renewed sense of purpose, knowing that, together, we are making a real difference.
Original text from Irina
“My name is Irina, and I have 17 years of experience in the financial sector of a large international company as a treasury specialist. I am a sociable and outgoing person, accustomed to working in a large team, interacting with different people, collaborating effectively, and striving towards a common goal. Teamwork inspires me, and being part of a team heading towards a shared objective gives me a sense of purpose. I find fulfillment in being useful to others.
When the war began, we moved to Helsinki. It was challenging for me to accept that I was in a safe place while a terrible war was unfolding in Ukraine. These thoughts troubled me, and I sought ways to contribute and be helpful to my fellow Ukrainians. Learning about the MovEd project, I realized that this was the opportunity I had been searching for.
In MovEd, I encountered people who shared my desire to aid Ukrainians and who held similar values. Why this project? Because one teacher can share their experience with hundreds of children. By assisting one teacher, we are making a difference in the lives of many children. Our children are the future of Ukraine.
Joining MovEd has allowed me to channel my skills and passion towards a cause that aligns with my values. Together with like-minded individuals, I am making a meaningful contribution to the well-being and education of Ukrainian children, providing them with hope and a brighter future. In this journey, I have found a renewed sense of purpose, and the collective efforts of our team are a testament to the positive change that can be achieved when people come together for a common goal.”