Professional Integration HUB

Nataliia Weinwurm, Professional Integration HUB 3.0 Program Participant.

Intro 

• Age: 36 years old 
• City in Ukraine where you lived before the forced relocation: Kyiv, Ukraine
• Specialization: Marketing and Sales
• Hosting organization: Caritas Austria
• Self-rated integration: 7/10

PROFESSIONAL BACKGROUND

I hold a Master’s degree in International Economy from Prydniprovska State Academy of Civil Engineering and Architecture. Over the past 13 years, I have gained extensive experience in marketing, brand management, and project coordination, working for leading companies. My expertise includes strategic brand management, project planning, and communications. 

HOBBIES AND PERSONAL INTERESTS

Psychology, counseling, and personal development. I am currently training to become a certified Life and Social Counselor (Lebens- und Sozialberaterin) in Austria. 

I cannot choose just one special and meaningful book, as I have enjoyed reading since childhood. I particularly like The Little Prince, and its meaning has evolved for me over time. Currently, I have limited time to read because learning German takes priority, and reading feels like a luxury. However, when I do find free time, I enjoy books such as The Body Keeps the Score. 

RELOCATION

The full-scale invasion in 2022 forced me to seek safety and stability outside Ukraine. 

At the beginning of the war, I was based in Belgium. While searching for a job there, I realized that most positions required fluency in at least four languages. I decided to move to Austria because a close friend was already living here, and I believed it would be easier to find employment in English. During my first year, I lived in Wiener Neustadt, but later I decided to move to Vienna to have more professional opportunities and to live in a larger, more dynamic city. 

During my first months in Austria, I focused on adapting to the new environment and improving my German language skills. At the same time, I continued working remotely for a Ukrainian company, which allowed me to stay professionally active and maintain financial stability. In addition, I participated in local integration and networking events and continued my studies in psychology. I also began volunteering by providing emotional support to Ukrainians affected by the war, which helped me integrate faster and feel part of the community. 

PROFESSIONAL PATH IN AUSTRIA

I began actively searching for a job in Austria after settling in and improving my German language skills, around mid-2023. At that point, I started applying for positions that matched my marketing and project management experience and participated in professional integration programs to better understand the local job market.  

My professional journey in Austria began with the Professional Integration HUB program. Before joining the program, I mainly sent out my CV, applied for various positions, and took some unqualified jobs while maintaining communication with AMS. The HUB became the turning point that helped me better understand the Austrian labor market and find opportunities aligned with my professional background. 

In Austria, there is a high demand for professionals in IT, engineering, healthcare, social work, and education. Understanding this, I decided to continue my professional development in the social field and am currently studying to become a certified Life and Social Counselor (Lebens- und Sozialberaterin) in Austria. 

EXPERIENCE IN THE PROGRAM

I first learned about the Professional Integration HUB program through the Telegram channel Train of Hope. And this was my third application. 

On my first day at the internship I felt motivated and inspired. The team was very welcoming, and for the first time in my life, I experienced such a well-organized and supportive onboarding process. It made me feel confident and excited about the work ahead. 

My main achievement during the program was the successful integration into the host organization’s workflow and a meaningful contribution to ongoing projects through strategic planning and communication support. 

For me, the main value of the HUB was the opportunity for professional integration, skill development, and building a strong network within the Austrian job market. 

INTEGRATION IN AUSTRIA

I would rate my level of integration in Austria a 7 on a scale from 1 to 10. I am actively integrating through education, volunteering, and professional activities. 

To me, integration means mastering the language, understanding local dialects, and becoming familiar with cultural norms and rules. A person is truly integrated when they can communicate effectively, navigate daily life independently, and feel a sense of belonging within the community. 

I have taken some practical steps toward integration. I have actively participated in professional networking events, volunteered, attended workshops, joined a buddy program with Austrian participants, applied for jobs, and attended job fairs. Among these, volunteering and the buddy program were the most effective in helping me build connections and gain confidence in the local environment. 

After the program, I feel more inspired, confident, and comfortable initiating new professional and social connections. It strengthened my ability to engage with new acquaintances and participate actively in Austrian professional and community life. 

PERSPECTIVE

After the program, I plan to continue developing my career in marketing and communications, finalize my counseling studies, and contribute to projects that support community and social integration. 

I am open to returning to Ukraine under stable and secure conditions. I would place myself at a 5 on a 1 – 10 scale. I would consider returning when the security situation improves and there are opportunities for professional development and societal rebuilding. 

REFLECTIONS

I believe there is a gap in Austria when it comes to programs and initiatives specifically supporting professional integration for newcomers. To my knowledge, the Professional Integration HUB is one of the few programs addressing this need effectively. 

My recommendations to Ukrainians who are just beginning their professional path in Austria to be proactive and participate in community and professional events, networking is key to integration. 

The Professional Integration HUB  is a program that bridges professional experience, cultural understanding, and real opportunities for integration in Austria.

 

Photos: Valerie Loudon, Ganna Kasych

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