by Ihor Tereshchenko, LHI Ukraine Partnership Manager
Even baby Mark, the smallest representative from our operating centers across Ukraine, came out for LHI's second capacity-building conference in Lviv, Ukraine!
Did you know that LHI has 7 operating centers all across Ukraine? Our teams at each operating center have figured out ways to best support fellow Ukrainians and deliver humanitarian aid. On September 21-24, LHI held its second capacity-building conference, bringing together representatives from our operating centers as well as from our Moldova program to learn from each other, share best practices, and engage in wellness activities.
LHI has 7 operating centers in Ukraine. Representatives from each center came to Lviv for our second capacity-building conference.
Ihor, LHI’s Partnership Manager in Ukraine, shared this recap of the conference. Ihor joined LHI in August after working for the Ukrainian Red Cross. Thank you, Ihor, for sharing!
A Balanced Blend
The conference achieved a harmonious balance between sharing and learning, and created a safe space for forming and deepening interpersonal relationships. Participants benefited from rich content and expert insights through workshops on ways to efficiently and effectively manage humanitarian work, fundraising, and establishing and maintaining a social media presence.
Ihor helps representatives from one of our operating center share best practices.
The event also facilitated wellness sessions, such as art therapy, meditation, and a tea ceremony. Relationships were formed and strengthened through sharing professional and personal experiences, and paved the way for future collaborative projects.
Conference participants recharged with art therapy.
Conference participants, many of whom work on the front lines or with people who have evacuated from the front lines, take a moment for meditation and self-care.
Relaxing and enjoying a tea ceremony.
Attendees gave the conference rave reviews!
Personal feedback from attendees underscored the event's success in addressing their diverse needs. The agenda was particularly commended for its relevance and thoughtful structure. The practical workshops stood out as valuable, offering hands-on experience that participants could apply directly to their work. Jaron, LHI’s Director of Monitoring and Evaluation said, “I think this conference is one of the most valuable elements of our capacity-building support for Ukrainian humanitarian teams. Our focus on the well-being of our partners, and providing opportunities for learning and growth, greatly improves the ability of our aid workers to give meaningful support to those most in need. Plus, the new collaborative relationships (and new friendships!) between Ukrainians from all corners of the country will continue long into the future.”
LHI Founder and Director Hayley captures this moment of collaboration and connection.
Networking and collaboration opportunities were hailed as pivotal aspects of the conference. LHI Moldova’s Roman said, “Joining the conference with the LHI Moldova team, we got to know many of the people and projects in Lviv for the very first time - and what a truly beautiful and impressive experience that was! These interactions contributed significantly to the sense of community among attendees and created a platform for potential future initiatives.”
LHI Founder and Director Hayley, Director of Monitoring and Evaluation Jaron, and COO Walker say a fond farewell to Ukrainian team members.
Hayley, LHI’s founder and director, reflected: “Spending quality time with our Ukrainian team members was so wonderful! I loved seeing our teams from different regions of Ukraine come together, away from the frontlines. Our team members work so hard, some in very dangerous situations, and this conference was a great opportunity to thank them face to face!”
Most of all, the conference left our teams in Ukraine refreshed, inspired, and feeling united in our mission. Ukraine country director Serhii said, “LHI’s leadership and our friends can be far away; still, our hearts feel no distance. Our bonds will strengthen while we help Ukrainians together, and our conference was a great chance to meet face-to-face, share our experiences, and brainstorm new projects.”
A Testament to the Power of Collaboration
The LHI Partners Conference 2023 surpassed expectations, offering a comprehensive and enriching experience. It equipped participants with knowledge, skills, and valuable connections necessary for advancing their humanitarian missions. The event was a testament to the power of collaboration and shared commitment to making a positive global impact through humanitarian efforts.
If you’d like to learn more about our humanitarian aid efforts in Ukraine and Moldova, please visit our Ukraine response page and our Moldova program page.