"I can’t stop the rockets, but I can help those who are fighting for their future,” says David Daly from London, a former senior executive at international corporations and now a dedicated volunteer at SvitloSchool . His weekly lessons are not just about English—they’re about hope, resilience, and offering young people a bridge to a brighter future.
SvitloSchool was founded by Yulia Kosko, a Ukrainian educator from Zaporizhzhia, who has over 20 years of experience in the UK education system. In the first days of Russia’s full-scale invasion, she realised that children urgently needed more than just schooling—they needed a safe, nurturing space where they could feel supported, heard, and empowered. What started with a few students in Zaporizhzhia has since grown into a lifeline for thousands of Ukrainian children worldwide. “We began with just a handful of children, and now we have created a space where thousands of young people from Ukraine and beyond can learn and thrive,” Yulia explains.
At the heart of SvitloSchool are British and international volunteers who dedicate their time and expertise for free. They come from the UK, the US, Canada, Peru, Australia—bringing diverse professional backgrounds and life experiences. For Ukrainian children, they are not just teachers; they are mentors, friends, and role models who stood by them in the darkest of times. David Daly teaches leadership and communication, helping teenagers not only master English but also unlock their personal strengths: “I used to lead global teams in business, but the greatest inspiration came from these Ukrainian teenagers. Their resilience teaches all of us something deeply human,” he shares.
For many volunteers, especially retirees, SvitloSchool has given their life a renewed sense of purpose. MJ Krogman from the United States, a retired history teacher with over 30 years in the classroom, reflects: “After I retired, I felt like my teaching journey had ended. SvitloSchool proved me wrong. Here, every session reminds me I can still make a real difference, while the students inspire me in return.” Peruvian teacher Yan Franco adds: “This is a place where knowledge flows from heart to heart. Even during air raids, Ukrainian kids log in to class eager to learn. It’s extraordinary.”
For Ukrainian teenagers, these lessons have been transformative. Oleksandra from Odessa remembers: “I had lost interest in learning when the war began. Here, I rediscovered it. I’ve led clubs, spoken at Cambridge, and realised my voice matters.” Hordiy from Berdychiv shares: “At first, I thought it was just another Zoom class. But after the first session, I felt it—this is different. Here, people listen to you. That gave me strength.”
Students don’t just attend classes—they grow. Through SvitloSchool, many have spoken at international camps, joined leadership programmes, presented projects, and participated in meaningful dialogues with peers worldwide. Sofiia, who relocated abroad after the war started, says: “I stumbled upon the school accidentally. I thought I just wanted to hear familiar language, but I found something much deeper—a place where I was heard, where I mattered.”
Beyond language learning, SvitloSchool offers debate clubs, leadership training, international camps, and practical life skills development. For many, it’s a gateway to future education abroad, international exchanges, and global opportunities. British teachers, in particular, have been crucial in building these bridges—not only teaching English but nurturing confidence, critical thinking, and leadership. They are showing children what it means to belong to a supportive global community.
For the volunteers themselves, the experience is equally powerful. “SvitloSchool reminds us that small contributions—just a few hours each week—can change lives,” says David. “It’s deeply fulfilling, and the connection is mutual. I give, but I receive even more in return.” Through the simple but profound act of teaching, British and English-speaking volunteers are helping build a resilient, educated, and confident generation of Ukrainians—one that will one day rebuild their country and lead it into the future.
📌 You can support this initiative here:
https://www.justgiving.com/page/ebrd-for-ukraines-education-fundraising-team-2
📌 Learn more about SvitloSchool’s classes, clubs, and international opportunities here:
https://www.svitloschool.com/get-involved/student-application
