UCL School of Management recently hosted an inspiring event titled “Ukrainian Entrepreneurs’ Evening: Adapting and Thriving”, celebrating the resilience, innovation, and collaborative spirit of Ukrainian entrepreneurs in the UK. Designed as a platform for sharing insights, forging connections, and empowering the next generation of changemakers, the evening spotlighted those driving the development of a transparent, competitive, and partnership-led economy in Ukraine.

The evening was opened by Dr Nataliia Hrytsiuk, Research Fellow at UCL School of Management, who welcomed participants and introduced the programme. She emphasised the importance of entrepreneurial initiatives within the diaspora and shared information about the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs for Ukraine lecture series. Launched in 2023, the series equips aspiring and existing entrepreneurs with the essential skills and knowledge to grow their initiative. 

Key speakers at the event included Pierre-Jean Hanard (Associate Professor, UCL School of Management), Jerry Allen (Director for Entrepreneurship, UCL Innovation & Enterprise), Marc Ortmans (GEN UK, ReStart Ukraine), Aarnav Agarwal (UCL Entrepreneurs Society), and Sonya Shydyk (President of the Ukrainian Student Community), who discussed the possibilites for international collaboration and the extensive opportunities within UCL’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

 highlight of the evening was the panel discussion “Entrepreneurs’ Adaptation in a New Country”, where Ukrainian entrepreneurs shared their experiences, challenges, and strategies for successfully developing businesses in the UK. Panellists included:

• Liliia Ilkevych — Founder & CEO, Fly&Joy travel agency & tour operator
• Tania Olevska — Marketing & Communications Director, Ukrainian Wine Company UK
• Yuliia Monastyrova — High Ticket Expert, Brand Strategist, Entrepreneur
• Anna Golovatova-Brunette — Founder, Greendezeen (Mosscrete start-up)

The event concluded with a networking session, providing participants with the opportunity to exchange ideas, explore potential collaborations, and strengthen professional and community ties within the Ukrainian diaspora in the UK.

Find out more about the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs for Ukraine Lecture Series