Participants of UCL School of Management’s Next Generation of Entrepreneurs for Ukraine Lecture Series were recently invited to take part in a panel discussion hosted by FaceWork Ukraine, an organisation specialising in training employability programmes for Ukrainians overseas. During the event, panellists not only shared their experiences of the Lecture Series at UCL School of Management, but also their love for entrepreneurship and the ways in which it can become a transformative force for Ukraine, particularly in relation to its economic development and social reconstruction.
London-based entrepreneur and founder of marketing agency StarCreative Vita Shafinska joined the panel and discussed the importance of entrepreneurs adapting to modern technologies. She said, ‘I use cutting-edge technologies, including AI. If we don’t embrace them, we will be overtaken not by robots but by people who do.” Modern technologies and artificial intelligence can significantly enhance the efficiency and competitiveness of businesses, and Vita recommends finding ways to not fear the new, but to learn how to leverage it to your advantage.
Christina Nekrylova, founder of the cleaning agency Christina’s Cleaner, also appeared on the panel and shared the importance of resilience. She states, “Conquer your fear, break it down into pieces, and turn it into ‘borshch’.” Entrepreneurship requires courage and determination. Don’t be afraid of mistakes and failures—they are just part of the journey to success. Use your experiences to grow and develop.
Olga Gashenko, founder of Your Brand’s advertising agency, reassured the audience: “Don’t worry if something doesn’t work out the first time; the world won’t change overnight.” Mistakes are a natural part of the learning process. The main thing is not to give up and to keep moving forward. Each attempt brings you closer to success.
Iryna Pavlenko, co-founder of WOWcards, advised: “If you can’t increase sales of your product, look for innovative solutions to change the product or niche.” Innovation and flexibility are key factors in modern business success. If your methods aren’t yielding the desired results, experiment and seek new approaches.
Oleksandr Diachenko, co-founder of LLC Vitalizer, also shared his key advice to entrepreneurs: “Business requires teamwork and qualified consultation.” The success of a business depends on the people you work with. Surround yourself with professionals who will help you achieve your goals and grow your business.
Finally, Visiting Research Associate at UCL School of Management Nataliia Hrytsyiuk notes that entrepreneurship is a path to prosperity and resilience for Ukraine. She suggests that entrepreneurs move forward by supporting and developing their ideas using innovation and don’t be afraid to make mistakes. She hopes that initiatives such as the Lecture Series and FaceWork Ukraine panel discussion can help us to build a better future together.
