Professional Integration HUB

Diana Liutianska, Professional Integration HUB 3.0 Program Participant.

Intro

• Age: 30 years old
• City in Ukraine where you lived before the relocation: Uzhhorod, Ukraine
• Professional specialization: Law 
• Hosting organization: KDZ – Centre for Public Administration Research
• Self-rated integration: 7/10

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND

Education:

• Taras Shevchenko National University of Kyiv, Ukraine
  Master of Law / Legal business consulting, 2017 
• Uzhhorod National University, Ukraine Bachelor of Law, 2015

Positions and key organizations:

• Gaddr, Stockholm, Sweden (remote)
  Project Manager Feb 2025 – Sep 2025
• LLC “MyProfi Marketing”, Uzhhorod, Ukraine (remote)
  Project Manager Jun 2023 – Dec 2023
• LLC “Legal defence”, Uzhhorod, Ukraine
  Attorney at Law Feb 2020 – Dec 2023
  
• Assistant Attorney Jan 2017 – Feb 2020

HOBBIES AND PERSONAL INTERESTS

I am interested in psychology and personal development, which help me better understand communication and teamwork. I enjoy staying active through tennis, running and yoga, express my creativity through drawing and photography. I also like intellectual games such as “Mafia,” which combine strategy, observation and interaction. I am passionate about travelling, especially exploring museums and architecture.

A book that is special to me is Victor Hugo’s Les Misérables, particularly the story of Fantine. Through her character, I learned about the strength of dignity and compassion even in moments of hardship and injustice. Fantine’s journey showed me how easily society can judge without understanding and how important it is to stay kind and humane despite difficulties. Her story reminded me that empathy and resilience are not signs of weakness, but of true inner strength.

RELOCATION

The key factor that influenced my decision to leave Ukraine was the desire for professional and personal growth. My family had lived abroad for many years and while I remained in Ukraine to build my career as an attorney, over time I realised that I wanted to expand my perspective and develop in a more international context. This understanding motivated me to explore new directions. 

My story in Austria began in November 2023, when I arrived in Vienna. Before that, I had lived in Krakow and Prague, both beautiful cities with kind and open people. After some time, I returned to Ukraine to continue my work, but Vienna eventually became my third stop and, unexpectedly, my new home. I had visited the city five times before moving here and was always deeply impressed by its architecture, elegance and the meticulousness of Austrian life. When I finally arrived, a bit lost but motivated, I began my journey of integration – learning German, building new friendships and finding my place in this inspiring city.

During my first month in Vienna, my main focus was to find stability and create a sense of comfort and small support points that would help me feel at home in a new environment. I took time to get to know the city, its rhythm, its people and to build a routine that felt grounding. I did not start looking for a new job immediately, as I was still involved in my previous work in Ukraine and concentrated on completing my remaining responsibilities remotely. That period helped me to adapt gradually, regain focus and prepare for the next professional chapter in Austria.

PROFESSIONAL PATH IN AUSTRIA

I began to seriously look for a job in Austria after I had settled in and started to understand the local environment better. During this time, I focused on learning German and studying the Austrian labour market to see where my skills could fit best. I was also actively volunteering and networking, taking part in major conferences in Vienna such as Future Forward, Austria Startup Summit and Impact Days. These experiences helped me connect with professionals from different fields, understand Austria’s innovation and social impact ecosystem, and prepare myself for new career opportunities.

The main difference between my professional field in Ukraine and in Austria is the focus and environment. In Ukraine, I worked mostly within the sphere of domestic law, where rules and processes were familiar to me. In Austria, I shifted to project management and fundraising, which required me to use my soft skills such as adaptability, organization and communication much more actively. Working in an international environment helped me understand how law, policy and development projects connect in practice, and it strengthened my motivation to continue my path in international law.

In my view, the most needed professions in Austria are in IT, healthcare, education and project management. There is also a big demand for engineers and technical specialists. Many Ukrainians work in administration, social projects, translation and education, where they can use their skills and language knowledge. I think that in Austria, hard work, flexibility and willingness to learn are the main keys to success.

EXPERIENCE IN THE PROGRAM

Before joining the program, my expectations were quite modest. Being chosen came as a real surprise and an honor, especially knowing how many talented Ukrainian women and professionals were also applying. At first, I expected simply to gain practical experience through an internship in an institution, but what I actually found was much more, a supportive community, inspiration and a sense of belonging among strong women working toward similar goals.

On my first day at the internship, I was warmly welcomed by the team and immediately felt at ease in the new environment. I was treated as a professional, which gave me confidence and motivation. 

What impressed me most was how well-structured the organisation is. Every process was clear, and everyone knew their responsibilities. The team showed genuine mutual support and involvement in each other’s projects, which created a strong sense of cooperation. I also appreciated how they stayed connected through team-building activities and open communication, which made the workplace not only efficient but also truly inspiring.

The most valuable insight I gained during the program was that real change begins with small steps when people from different backgrounds share knowledge and support each other. I learned that professional growth is not only about skills, but also about empathy, openness and the courage to start something new, even in a completely different environment. This experience taught me to value every connection and to trust that even small contributions can make a difference.

My main achievement during the three months of the program was the chance to contribute to KDZ’s work related to Ukraine. I helped the team better understand the situation and needs of Ukrainian municipalities, which gave me a sense of purpose and connection to my country. It felt meaningful to know that, even from Vienna, I could support Ukraine in a practical way during such a difficult time.

For me, the main value of the HUB is the community. The HUB gives not only professional opportunities, but also a sense of belonging, exchange and mutual encouragement. It is a place where I can learn, grow and feel inspired by others who are building their paths in a new country.

INTEGRATION IN AUSTRIA

I would rate my level of integration in Austria at around 7 out of 10. I can already communicate in German in daily situations and feel quite confident managing everyday life. I have built social and professional connections, understand local culture and feel a growing sense of belonging and stability. I know that I’m still on my way, but I see clear progress and feel more at home with every month.

For me, integration means more than learning the language or knowing traditions. It is about feeling part of society, understanding how things work and contributing through your work and personal effort. A person can truly say they are integrated when they can communicate freely, feel accepted, live independently and still stay true to who they are.

As part of my integration process, I focused on active networking and professional development. I attended many industry events and discussions, completed professional courses and regularly communicated with Austrian recruiters to better understand the local labour market. These experiences helped me expand my contacts, learn how the system works from the inside, and adapt my skills to the Austrian professional environment.

In my experience, Austrians treat displaced people from Ukraine with respect and empathy. From my first day in Austria, I was met with kindness and understanding, whether in organisations, public offices or clinics. I felt that many Austrians truly see Ukrainians as an educated, hardworking and intellectual nation and they appreciate our efforts to integrate and contribute. This respectful attitude made my adaptation much easier and helped me feel welcomed and supported.

PERSPECTIVE

I can’t really put a number on how likely I am to return to Ukraine. But even if I don’t move back permanently, I will still support Ukraine from abroad by using my experience, skills and international connections to contribute in any way I can.

Today, I simply believe that home is where you can live safely, grow and be useful. I would consider returning to Ukraine when it becomes stable and secure again, with conditions that allow people to build their futures with confidence and dignity.

My dream job is one where I can do impactful and meaningful work, in an organization that contributes to positive change, supports people and strengthens communities through international cooperation or legal work. What matters most to me is being part of a team that supports each other, works in the same direction and values openness and respect. 

REFLECTIONS

During the last year, I have felt real support with integration — from language courses to different guidance programs. I also discovered the strength of the Ukrainian community and its network, which opened a completely new world of projects and opportunities. What I would appreciate even more in the future are initiatives that connect Ukrainians and Austrians on a deeper professional level, helping us build long-term cooperation and understanding.

For me, the Professional Integration HUB is a living bridge, where Ukrainian women meet understanding, guidance and the courage to step into their new Austrian chapter.

 

Photos: Valerie Loudon, Ganna Kasych

• Series of Interviews with Participants of the Professional Integration HUB 3.0 Program.