In Brașov, for many young refugees from Ukraine, integration began in a safe space, but it didn’t stop there.
Through the RIF4UA project implemented by Terre des hommes, these young people found more than just classes: they found a place to learn, grow, and rebuild their confidence.
Arriving in Romania in March 2022, amid the war, young people like Alexei, Evghenii, and Dima participated in 3D modeling, woodworking, and laser cutting activities, as well as personal development and psychological support sessions. For many of them, the experience marked the first step toward stability.
They learned practical skills, ranging from conducting a SWOT analysis to creating objects with a 3D printer or working with materials like wood. Beyond technical skills, they also discovered things about themselves: how to understand their emotions, how to adapt, and how to build a new beginning.
They highlight the impact on both a professional and personal level:
“I learned many practical skills and discovered interesting things.”
“The course helped me better understand issues related to my mental health and life.”
“I met interesting people and developed my skills.”
The RIF4UA project serves as an integrated support centre where refugees can access not only courses but also counselling, psychosocial support, career guidance, and activities for the whole family. This centre is designed to be a real point of support in the integration process, a place where relationships are built, skills are developed, and opportunities for the future are created.
The young people’s message about integration is clear:
“It is enough for society to be open and to accept differences with respect.”
“A community should be open and friendly.”
“It’s important for people to be open and cheerful.”
Today, many of these young people feel at home in Romania and believe they can find their place in a new community.
Because, sometimes, integration starts with a course, but it’s built through people.
All of these young people participated in our project RIF4UA - Scaling-up Integrated Services within Resilience and Innovation Facilities for Ukrainian Refugee Inclusion, funded by the Social Innovation+ Initiative. Our partners are Terre des hommes - Hungary and the Brașov County Agency for Sustainable Development.
When we welcome those fleeing war with open arms, we are not just offering help—we are building a more united and inclusive community together.
Co-funded by the European Union. The opinions and views expressed are those of the author(s) alone and do not necessarily reflect the position of the European Union or the European Social Fund Agency. Neither the European Union nor the funding authority can be held responsible for them.
