Yevheniia's Story: 'I was just one person and then the war happened, now I'm a totally different person'

Yevheniia was happy at home in Dnipro, Ukraine – managing her own business, meeting friends after work and spending time with family.

But in February 2022, her life was changed forever by the trauma of war and Yevheniia was forced to flee Ukraine without her loved ones.

Unable to speak much English, adjusting to life in the UK felt isolating and finding work or apprenticeships as a non-UK national proved difficult.

Determined to build a future for herself, Yevheniia adopted an “English name” – Jane – and joined a Newcastle United Foundation employability course.

While initially reserved, Yevheniia was supported through job interviews. She accepted every opportunity in front of her and has recently secured work in the tech industry to regain her confidence, her identity and to establish a new life in Newcastle.