Name: Elena KhvanCountry of origin: Uzbekistan
In Ukraine since 2006
Profession: -
Residence city: Odesa
— Every refugee must try to accept a new culture, get an insight into it, understand people around. The highest level of adaptation in a foreign environment is integration into its culture, while retaining one’s own roots. Everything depends on person’s aspirations and motivation. Of course, one needs assistance and support from others, however, it is necessary to do something for personal development as well. One should use every opportunity to learn the language, receive education, find a job, and not be afraid to start from the bottom.
Elena and her children came to Ukraine from Uzbekistan in 2006. She was forced to leave her home country because of persecution related to her work at the international civic organization called “Assembly of cultures of Central Asian Nations”. Elena applied for a refugee status in a month after her arrival. In her home country, her apartment was disappropriated from her, so she had no place to return to. In the Soviet times, her husband studies at the Odesa Polytechnic University. He had good memories about that time. They hoped there would be more opportunities for development and prospects for their children in Ukraine.
At the beginning, she faced a lot of difficulties, since she had to wait for her documents for a long time, which entailed obstacles in finding a job and continuing her education. Also, it was problematic to find accommodation and she experienced lack of moral support. There was only one thing left – to wait patiently. In July 2008, Elena finally was issued the documents and in October found a job as a youth counselor, went through a complex procedure of diploma nostrification, and was able to proceed with her education. Later, Elena found a more suitable job for herself: she devoted herself to the problems of refugee children and with UNHCR’s support started her private practice.
Elena plans to continue developing her business, would like to buy an apartment in the city, become a citizen, and gain confidence in the future.