Q&A: Victoria from Mariupol

Victoria is a 16-year-old refugee from Mariupol.

With the support of UCAP, the Ukrainian education network “MRIYDIY” runs a weekend education program in Warsaw, Poland. The program helps Ukrainian refugee high school students prepare for the critical Ukrainian National exam necessary for graduation and eligibility for college education. Topics include Ukrainian language, mathematics, the history of Ukraine, and English. In addition to serving as a high-quality educational platform, the MRIYDIY education program also helps ensure that these Ukrainian youth preserve their identity and educational opportunities despite being displaced by war.

Where are you studying now?
I am attending the Lyceum in Pyasechno and pursuing online studies at the Mariupol Lyceum in Kyiv.

Tell me about yourself.
I have been passionate about dancing for 8 years, and it’s a significant part of my life. In my free time,
I enjoy immersing myself in books and indulging my artistic side by drawing.

How is your life in Poland?
Having been in Poland for 1 year and 5 months, I’ve grown to like it here, feeling genuinely happy. With family and friends around, I never feel alone, and I’ve encountered kindness and acceptance from the people I’ve met. Although school life is welcoming, forming connections with classmates remains a bit challenging.

Feedback about the NMT training center:
Discovering the MRIYDIY NMT preparation centre was a pleasant surprise for me, thanks to my mother. Before that, I was unsure how I’d prepare for the exam independently. Upon my first visit, I was impressed by the kind and experienced teachers who provided clear explanations and address all questions. I’m immensely grateful to the organizers and teachers at this center for the invaluable opportunity to prepare for the exam.

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