Education in a Bubble, Ukraine-wide
As a result of the war, most children in Ukraine have experienced traumatic events such as displacement, violence, loss of family and friends, hunger and cold. With “Education in a bubble”, we want to give 900 children in the east of the country back their joy and courage to face life.
The Project
Since the start of Russia’s war against Ukraine in February 2022, children and adolescents have been growing up amid loss, violence, and constant uncertainty. The “Education in a Bubble” project creates safe spaces where they can process their experiences, build resilience, and regain confidence.
Together with its partner organization Save Ukraine, help alliance supports children and adolescents through creative and psychosocial programs. At the center in Kyiv, trained staff and psychologists provide trauma-informed support. Art, music, movement, and theater help young people express their feelings, reduce stress, and regain confidence in their own abilities.
To bring this support to children in the particularly hard-hit eastern regions, a mobile “Pop-Hub” is also in operation. The inflatable, quickly assembled bubble, shaped like a whale, travels directly to local communities for one-day or multi-day workshops. It creates a safe space for connection, creativity, and moments of carefree childhood, even in a fragile environment. The project aims to reach a total of 900 children aged 7 to 16.
This year’s focus: the Unhide Academy
In a multi-stage training program, young people aged 13 to 18 learn how to cope with stress, recognize their strengths, and take responsibility for themselves and others. Particularly engaged participants deepen their knowledge through a six-month advanced training program. Supported by experienced mentors, they learn how to provide trauma-sensitive support to children and adolescents, facilitate groups, and use creative methods to promote mental well-being.
They put what they learn into practice through existing programs and experience firsthand that their contribution makes a difference. This creates a growing network of young people who actively shape their communities and help create new opportunities and perspectives. The Academy therefore strengthens not only individual young people, but also local skills, community cohesion, and hope in the long term.
