Since childhood, Iryna Mishchenko has found inspiration and solace in movement. She explored various sports, but it was by a lucky accident that she discovered her true vocation for the first time.

"My name is Iryna. I was born in Lysychansk, Luhansk region, and lived there until February 2022," the woman begins her story. The onset of the full-scale war forced Iryna and her family members to leave their home, which quickly got destroyed by the attacks. They relocated and settled down in the Poltava region, as internally displaced persons. 

Life was challenging, and resources were scarce. "We didn’t have enough money to buy everything necessary for a normal life," Iryna shares. "We turned to the local authorities for help with employment, but unfortunately, there were no options."

Amidst the despair, Iryna's passion for sports remained her savior. It was during this difficult time that she came across an announcement about the "WE ACT II: Women Empowerment Action" project. "This gave me the motivation to start anew and give it a try," she recalls.

The "WE ACT II" is a project implemented by UNFPA, the United Nations Population Fund in Ukraine, with the financial support of the European Union and in partnership with the NGO "Innovative Social Solutions." It aims to support women like Iryna, in challenging life situations, by providing them with the resources, training, and opportunities needed to rebuild their lives. The initiative focuses on women empowerment, enhancing their economic stability and participation, promoting gender equality, and ensuring that women can contribute to and benefit from sustainable development in their communities.

Thanks to the project, Iryna discovered the Employment Support Center in Hadiach, Poltava region, where she received consultation and support. The 'Fitness Trainer' course offered by the center resonated with her deeply. "The course seemed perfect for me, as I have been involved in sports all my life. Sports inspire me and give me the strength to live in these difficult times," she recounts with a smile.

Iryna successfully completed the training, received a certificate, and a starter kit to begin her own business. "After completing the courses, I opened a private enterprise to officially conduct business. I rented a space in Lutenka, Myrhorod district, near Hadiach, where I set up my gym. Here, I conduct both individual and group training sessions with children, teenagers, and adults. Additionally, I train veterans in my gym. I am very grateful for the opportunity to learn, develop, and be financially independent," Iryna concludes.

Iryna is a sport enthusiast known for her discipline, positive attitude, and a natural talent for motivating others. Her eyes light up when she talks about her clients, and her enthusiasm is infectious. Whether she's working with children, teenagers, or veterans, Iryna brings a personal touch to her training sessions, creating an environment where everyone feels safe. Her story is one of resilience, support, and the firm belief that even in the toughest times, there is a way to move forward. 

Iryna's story is not only transformative for her personal life but also crucial for Ukraine's economy, which is undergoing significant demographic changes. As the country builds demographic resilience, the role of women becomes increasingly vital. With many men being mobilized, women like Iryna are stepping up, taking the lead, and driving economic stability and growth through mastering jobs that are in demand in their communities: learning to drive tractors, repairing cars, engaging in maintenance work, construction, and more. 

By empowering women through initiatives like the "WE ACT II" project, Ukraine is fostering a more resilient and inclusive economy, where every individual's contribution is valued and essential.