He was looking for training but found a job instead: Oleksandr’s journey with the Reboot programme

Oleksandr turned to the Ukrainian Red Cross Reboot programme hoping to gain new skills through training. Instead, he found a position where he now puts his existing knowledge and experience to use.

Originally from Zaporizhzhia region, Oleksandr had to relocate to Ternopil because of the war. Despite the challenges of settling into a new place, finding employment remained one of his priorities.

Oleksandr learned about the Reboot programme through a social media post. Initially, he was interested in a course on accounting for individual entrepreneurs. However, during a consultation, the programme’s employment specialist recognised the value of his previous experience and suggested a suitable vacancy: chief specialist in the Housing and Utilities Department of Baikivtsi Village Council.

The programme team helped Oleksandr improve his CV. He then attended an interview and received a job offer.

Almost a year later, Oleksandr is still working at the village council. His story shows how important it is to take each person’s experience and needs into account when providing support. Sometimes, recognising the knowledge and skills people already have can help them find a position where they can put them to good use.