Providing a better future for Ukrainian refugees through digital learning

The main objective of the project was to support the integration of Ukrainian refugees into host countries by developing and delivering a Mental Training Programme. We aimed to equip refugees with...

The main objective of the project was to support the integration of Ukrainian refugees into host countries by developing and delivering a Mental Training Programme. We aimed to equip refugees with practical mental skills such as motivation, goal-setting, emotional resilience, and self-confidence—essential tools for building a new life in a foreign environment. By offering user-friendly digital content and in-person workshops, we wanted to improve refugees’ access to quality education, enhance their employability, and promote mental well-being. Another key goal was to foster a sense of community and belonging by connecting refugees from Slovenia and Croatia, encouraging peer support and shared experience. Through collaboration between Ukrainian associations and project partners, we also aimed to strengthen support networks and create long-term impact across the EU.

The project was implemented in two main phases. First, we conducted a needs assessment through interviews with Ukrainian refugees and stakeholders in Slovenia and Croatia, supported by a desk review of existing educational resources. This informed the design of the Mental Training Programme, a digital learning tool consisting of 32 short, interactive video lessons in English with Ukrainian translation. The content focuses on motivation, goal-setting, resilience, and emotional well-being. We collaborated with FranklinCovey Adria to structure the educational design, wrote scripts, filmed and edited all lessons, and published them on https://4uture.thinkific.com. In the second phase, we organized two in-person workshops in Slovenia and Croatia, led by psychologist Sara Isaković. Participants were encouraged to become ambassadors of the programme. Many came from Ukrainian governmental and non-governmental organizations.

Ukrainian refugees received a comprehensive set of tools through a 3.5-hour online masterclass with psychologist Sara Isaković, equipping them with essential psychological techniques for adapting to life in a new country. Two impactful live training events followed: the first in Zagreb (April 28, 2025) with 30 participants, and the second in Ljubljana (May 12, 2025) with 32 participants. Both events were organized in collaboration with local Ukrainian associations. Participants were encouraged to act as ambassadors, sharing the acquired knowledge within their communities. Both Ukrainian organizations reported that participants were thrilled with the content, particularly Sara’s clear and relatable way of explaining psychology and guiding practical exercises. Partner associations committed to further disseminating these tools across their networks in Croatia, Slovenia, and other European countries—thus multiplying the reach and fostering wider social integration.