President of the Czech Republic Meets Veterans and People in Need Team in Lviv

The meeting was attended by our CEO, Šimon Pánek, our Head of Mission in Ukraine, Anna Duda, our Head of Advocacy and Communications Olena Budahovska, regional managers of the Lviv office Oksana Bohdan and Tetiana Lysychenko, as well as project participants—veterans and family members of fallen defenders who have launched their own businesses with grant support.

Participants shared their personal stories of transitioning from military and wartime experience to entrepreneurship; they spoke openly about the challenges of running a business during the war, and highlighted the importance of long-term international support for Ukraine and its veterans.

Andrii Rybak, a veteran and project participant, founded a business specialising in frozen semi-prepared foods. Starting with small-scale production, he has since opened several sales points in Lviv where his products are already available to customers. Beyond developing his business, Andrii mentors young entrepreneurs who are just starting out.

“For me, business is not just about income. It is about rebuilding a normal life after the war and taking responsibility for others. The biggest challenge is working in constant uncertainty, but at the same time, I see how important it is to support those who are only beginning their journey,” says Andrii.

Iryna Hrelia, a veteran and project participant, established a workshop producing granite products, including steps, slabs and window sealing elements. Operating on locally, her business has already found steady demand despite the difficult economic environment.

“Starting a business was intimidating—both financially and emotionally. But having my own workshop gave me a sense of stability again. Rising material costs and a shortage of skilled labour are real challenges, yet I believe this business has a future,” Iryna shares.

Svitlana Bondarenko, a project participant and the wife of a fallen Ukrainian defender, opened a small bakery in Lviv where she bakes and sells bread, rolls and other fresh pastries for the local community.

“This business is about memory, strength, and moving forward. The bakery has become a way for me to regain my footing. The hardest part is staying strong on difficult days, but the programme’s support has helped me to see that I am not alone,” Svitlana says.

President Petr Pavel reaffirmed the Czech Republic’s unwavering support for Ukraine and emphasised the importance of veteran entrepreneurship as a key pillar of recovery, economic resilience and dignified reintegration into civilian life.

For People in Need, such meetings are not only a sign of international solidarity, but also an opportunity to amplify the voices of project participants who are rebuilding Ukraine through their own initiative, resilience and determination—even in the midst of war.