Svitlana arrived in Prague in March 2022, at the very beginning of the full-scale Russian invasion of Ukraine. She was planning to visit her daughter, Donya, who had been living in Prague for 4 years at that time. Svitlana’s daughter was also six months pregnant, so mum came to support Donya and help with her soon-to-arrive newborn.

In Ukraine, Svitlana worked as a travel agent, because since childhood she had read many books about travel and dreamed of exploring the world. She sent tourists all over the globe on vacation, and also, as a recruiter, helped those who wanted to work abroad find suitable jobs.

"During the first eighteen months, I tried many jobs; as a cleaner, a waitress, a babysitter, and constantly studied the Czech language. Now I work for the International Organisation of Migrants, which helps Ukrainian refugees adapt better and integrate in the Czech Republic," says Svitlana.

In response to the question about her plans for the future, Svitlana is full of hope: "I have a great desire to return home and have the opportunity to work in tourism again. Seeing people's happy eyes after pleasant travels is so rewarding for me!"