Here's a breakdown of key insights and practical guidance for supporting fellow refugees:

Understanding your role and capacity

• Peer support vs. mentoring

  • Peer support stems from shared experiences and offers mutual understanding and encouragement.

  • Mentorship often involves more structured guidance from someone with greater experience.

• Honest self-assessment

Before offering support, assess your skills, knowledge, and limitations. Choose a role that aligns with your genuine capabilities. It's okay if you feel more comfortable as a peer supporter rather than a mentor. Both roles are valuable.

Utilizing your strengths and experiences

• Language skills

Offer translation assistance, help with language learning, and facilitate communication between refugees and local services. Even if you’re not fluent in the local language, you've likely become adept at using tools like Google Translate’s photo translation, speech recognition, and real-time text translation features to bridge language gaps. You’re familiar with essential vocabulary and can guide others on using these tools to understand signs, forms, and everyday communication. 

• Cultural understanding

With your experience integrating into the local community, you have valuable insights into both Ukrainian and local customs. Share this knowledge with fellow refugees to help them bridge cultural differences, understand local traditions, and feel more at ease in their new environment. 

• Emotional support

You understand the challenges of displacement and can provide empathy and encouragement. Organize social gatherings, facilitate support groups, or simply offer a listening ear to those who need it.

Practical tips for effective support

• Active listening

Demonstrate genuine interest in understanding the experiences of other refugees. Listen attentively, ask clarifying questions respectfully, and validate their feelings.

• Connect with local resources

Familiarize yourself with local organizations offering services like housing assistance, healthcare, and employment support. Help other refugees navigate these systems and connect with relevant networks.

• Facilitate community building

Organize social events and activities that foster connection and a sense of belonging among Ukrainian refugees. Shared meals, cultural celebrations, or informal gatherings can combat isolation and create a supportive network.

• Promote empowerment

Encourage other refugees to actively participate in their integration journey. Offer support for language learning, skill-building, and pursuing educational opportunities.

Remember: you are not alone.

• Connect with support organizations

Reach out to Ukrainian community groups and organizations already established in your new location. They can provide resources, guidance, and a sense of shared identity.

• Seek support for yourself

Providing support can be emotionally taxing. Remember to prioritize your own well-being and seek support from others when needed.

Building on past successes

• As we discussed previously, many Ukrainian refugees have already stepped up as employees, volunteers, and community leaders within various organizations. These experiences demonstrate the initiative, resilience, and resourcefulness of the Ukrainian community. Drawing on these successes and sharing your own experiences can inspire and empower others to actively participate in their integration process.

• By utilizing your unique experiences and strengths, you can make a significant difference in the lives of fellow Ukrainian refugees, fostering a sense of community and resilience during this challenging time.