Ukrainian mother in Moldova finds life’s purpose in child care and development work

Chisinau, Moldova - A mother from Kyiv, capital of Ukraine, forged a path of renewal and hope in the midst of the country’s humanitarian crisis. Fleeing the chaos of her homeland, Iulia recounts her journey with a mix of courage, determination and gratitude.

 "My name is Iulia," she begins, her voice tinged with both weariness and resolve. "I came a year and a half ago from Kyiv. But long before the pandemic and war, I worked in a private kindergarten. It was my first experience and because of these two events, I found myself unemployed.”

Iulia is an engineering degree graduate and hails from a family of educators which has instilled in her a lifelong passion for the teaching profession.

Her story unfolds against a backdrop of displacement and uncertainty, as she fled Ukraine with her husband and children. "When the conflict broke out and it became too hazardous to remain in Kyiv. We fled to Zaporizhzhia where my mother lived but it gradually became risky as well." Iulia recalls.

The family decided to leave and found refuge in Moldova. She adds, "It was too risky to return to Kyiv, not to mention the constant bombing. We wanted to stay for the children’s education but thought it was not safe. They continued their education in Moldova."

When Iulia's son was given the chance to study in the Chisinau Academy of Music, they moved to the capital city. Iulia says, "Chisinau presented us with a fresh start," Iulia shares, her voice brims with optimism.

While searching for professional growth and stability, Iulia learned about the Childcare Support Course offered by World Vision and WeWorld. She says, "I was thrilled when I heard about it. I have no formal pedagogical education and although I was determined to work with children, I lacked professional knowledge."

I bring a sense of peace to everyone, particularly children. As my priest taught me, one should do as much good as possible.

World Vision's Childcare Support Course was organized in collaboration with WeWorld and the Pedagogical College "Alexei Mateevici", accredited by the National Agency for Quality Assurance in Education and Research in Moldova. This project is supported by Aktion Deutschland Hilft.

She adds, “I became one of thirty participants in the course. I am glad I took the opportunity. Despite its intensity and full-time commitment, I was able to pass with the support of my family and friends.”

Finishing the course gave Iulia more confidence, courage, desire, and knowledge. Iulia shares with a sense of accomplishment. "I felt more like a nanny, and I am, of course, thrilled that life has brought me to this children’s center, from your organization, and to this course.”

Iulia adds, “My diploma is now in my job file. In my labor journal and I think it's fair that employers in Moldova offer childcare jobs to people with a pedagogical diploma or at least a psychology degree.”

The training gave many mothers like Iulia the hope as they worked to move forward. It also provided an opportunity for them to fully integrate into Moldovan society, connecting them with others who share their love for working with children.

Iulia says, "We have grown more bonded than ever before, owing to our shared experiences and strong determination. It's an integrated society, a close-knit community."

Iulia's journey has led her to discover gratitude in the most unexpected of places. She shares, "I bring a sense of peace to everyone, particularly children. As my priest taught me, one should do as much good as possible.”

The Laolalta center, where Iulia works and children come, is a space for communication and play, where children can let go of their stress and reclaim their sense of childhood. Iulia expresses, “Childhood cannot be stopped. Childhood must continue with support, and I am so grateful to be part of that."

Watch Video: Enhancing Ukrainian Refugees' Skills on Child Care and Development

Story and photos by Eugene Combo and Chris Lete / WorldVision