War replaced the stage and speech in her life — drama teacher Svitlana shares how she became a welder

Svitlana Kyseliuk spent her life working with voice and speech, teaching stage speech and acting at a children’s school of performing arts on the left bank of Kherson. In 2022, the war changed everything. Due to the occupation, she and her children were forced to leave their home and move to the capital. The first months in the new city were extremely challenging: an unfamiliar environment, instability, and the constant search for ways to carry on. She had to be flexible, learn new skills, and keep faith in herself.

By chance, she came across information about the Reboot programme, which helps people find employment. This became a turning point. Svitlana immediately filled out the application and joined the programme. Among the options offered, she deliberately chose electric welding, a profession traditionally seen as male-dominated.

Although the training was demanding, Svitlana quickly realised how complex and important the work is. She believes that after men have contributed by defending the country, it will also be women’s turn to build and restore a shared future. In her life, the stage and speech have been replaced by metal and fire — a different tool, but the same creative power.

Svitlana is sincerely grateful to the Ukrainian Red Cross and everyone involved in the Reboot programme for the opportunity to learn, grow, and find new support. For many people who have lost their homes and familiar ways of life, initiatives like this are not just courses — they are a chance to believe in themselves again and open a new chapter.