The Get Ready for Europe conference, bringing together Ukrainian students, professionals, policymakers, and community leaders to explore pathways for integration, empowerment, and collaboration within the European Union.
The event emphasized that a well-informed and skilled Ukrainian community is a tremendous resource for Europe. By equipping Ukrainians with knowledge of EU values, professional skills, and cultural understanding, the conference highlighted the role of education as a bridge between Ukraine and Europe, supporting both social integration and Ukraine’s economic and cultural reconstruction.
Opening remarks were delivered by:
- Vsevolod Chentsov, Head of Mission of Ukraine to the EU
- Olivier Willocx, Member of the Brussels Parliament
- Alina Kokhanko, Founder of Ukrainian Voices RC
The first panel, The Future of Europe & the Context of Enlargement, featured insights from Petras Auštrevičius (Committee on Foreign Affairs), Janice Schmidt-Altmeyer – Head of European Representation bei der Bundesagentur für Arbeit | Volljuristin exploring lessons from past EU enlargements and envisioning a new model of integration, featuring experts including Maryna Shevtsova Leuven International and European Studies.
The second panel, Education and Training as a Bridge, focused on strategies to support 5.4 million Ukrainian refugees. Olga Mishelot Fondatrice Helios Strategia, Ruslan Gurak Head of the State Service of Education Quality of Ukraine and Zenon Kowal World Ukrainian Congress (member of the executive), European Ukrainian Congress and Association of Ukrainians in Belgium (political advisor), Hon. Representative of the French-speaking Governments of Belgium, Former special advisor of the Embassy of Ukraine in Brussels.
Discussions centered on professional development, empowerment initiatives, and educational pathways that enable Ukrainians to contribute meaningfully to European society while helping rebuild their home country.
The conference underscored the importance of investing in human capital — knowledge, skills, and health — as a foundation for resilience, innovation, and social cohesion. Participants highlighted the potential of Ukrainians to strengthen the EU economically, culturally, and socially, provided they have access to quality education and opportunities for professional growth.
The Get Ready for Europe conference reaffirmed the shared commitment to building a stronger, inclusive Europe, where Ukrainians can actively participate and thrive.
Location: Info Hub, Esplanade Solidarność 1980, B-1050 Brussels
Time: 16:00 – 18:00
