ESF Projects for Ukrainians Svenska ESF Rådet

Project “Mötersplats Framtid” founded by European Social Found for Ukrainian refugees in Sweden

 Ukrainian Integration Initiative

On February 24, 2022, Russia’s full-scale invasion deeply impacted the lives of Ukrainians. Many were forced to leave their homeland and seek refuge in other countries, including Sweden. Recognizing this need, Framtidståget felt the need to extend a helping hand to newcomers.

Because the support from the European Social Fund and the “Mötersplats Framtid” project, since March 2022, we had the possibility to create a safe and welcoming space for those in need. Our project has been dedicated to helping Ukrainians settle in Sweden after fleeing the war. As of March 30, 2024, we’ve completed the third and final phase of the project. The organization has successfully helped to integrate over 1000 Ukrainians into Swedish society. We’ve supported them along their journey, offering skills training and guidance for a better future.

Our mission

The “Mötersplats Framtid” project was established with a dedicated mission: to empower refugees from Ukraine with the tools and opportunities they need to build brighter futures.

Through a comprehensive approach, the project focused on fostering skill acquisition, facilitating professional growth, and guiding individuals toward fulfilling life paths. By providing access to education, vocational training, and career development resources, the project aimed to equip refugees with the capabilities to thrive in their new environment.

Moreover, by offering mentorship, counselling, and community support, the project sought to instill confidence, resilience, and a sense of belonging among participants.

Key Objectives

Our program was based on four key objectives to ensure the effective integration of Ukrainians in Sweden.

These objectives were carefully chosen to cover various aspects of life in Sweden and provide comprehensive support for newcomers:

1. Language Proficiency: we implemented a dynamic language acquisition program, enhancing proficiency in both Sweden and English. This initiative bolsters employment prospects and fosters smoother integration into Swedish society;
2. Workforce Integration: our comprehensive support system equipped individuals with the tools and skills necessary for successful entry into the Swedish job market. Through personalized assistance in job search and informative seminars, we facilitated a seamless transition;
3. Emotional Well-being: we prioritized providing individual and group support to address the psychological toll of post-war experiences and aid in the resettlement process. Our aim was to offer a nurturing environment for emotional healing and adjustment life in a new country;
4. Lifelong Learning: we promote ongoing learning and social engagement through a diverse range of targeted courses and activities. From cutting-edge IT training to exploring the art of beauty, each offering is tailored to empower newcomers with the skills needed to thrive both professionally and socially;

Courses and Activities

Thanks to our exceptional team, we were able to offer a wide range of courses and activities aimed at supporting the integration of Ukrainians into their new society. Remarkably, over 63% of our team members belonged to the vary target group our project aimed to assist – individuals who shared a common goal of lending a helping hand to others.

Here are some of the offerings we provided:

• Language Courses: Swedish and English language courses, speaking clubs, and specialized Swedish language sessions tailored for accountants;
• Seminars: informative sessions covering topics such as the Swedish job market, Swedish law, and workers’ rights;
• Job Support: individualized guidance and assistance in the job search process;
• Technical Skills Development: courses in FrontEnd programming, Web Development using WordPress, UI/UX Design course, and workshops on AI and innovations;
• Entrepreneurship: workshops aimed at nurturing entrepreneurial skills;
• Beauty and Aesthetics: courses and workshops covering hairdressing, nail and brow art;
• Software Proficiency: MS Office courses for beginners and professionals, including specialized training in MS Office Excel;
• Psychological Support: both group and individual support sessions to address emotional well-being and aid in the adjustment process.

Our Achievements

 At the end of the “Mötesplats Framtid” project has achieved significant milestones:

• 98% of participants find Framtidståget safe, inclusive, and accessible. Each day, we welcomed nearly 100 individuals with tradition Swedish fika and free lunches;
• 87% of participants note improved well-being. We’ve consistently offered crucial psychological support, acknowledging that success involves both skills and well-being;
• Through dedication, we’ve helped participants find jobs, and build pathways to careers. 92% feel closer to the job market and socially integrated;
• 91% of participants agree that our language training improved their skills;
• Our vibrant salon buzzed with activity, serving around 145 unique participants and over 500 regular clients, offering everything from haircuts to nails and brows;
• Almost 78% of participants rated their overall experience with our organization as the highest grade.

 Here are some comments from our participants:

• Everything is great! I wish the project to work further and help other people!
• We want Framtidståget to continue to help, you are the best!
• Thank you to the team for giving programming courses, it really gives some hope to those who need to change their profession!!
• Thanks to your organization, I feel great support in a foreign country! It is very important not to fall in spirit! Thank you for being!

 What’s next?

 With the conclusion of the projects founded by European Social Fund, our direct assistance to Ukrainian refugees will undergo changes. However, our commitment to supporting those in need remains steadfast.

Although we may not be able to offer the same level of assistance as before, F ramtidståget continues its work on a voluntary basis.

If you share our passion for making a positive impact, we invite you to join us as a volunteer. Your contribution, whether through time or resources, can help us continue our mission of providing aid and support to those facing adversity. Together, we can strive to create a more inclusive and compassionate world.