The first non-scientist in our project – Lilian Wished. She is a coach, mentor, psychologist and energy therapist.
Lilian speaks:
Before the war and now: When the war began, I was running my own business in Odessa, Ukraine, where I had a private practice.
I left Ukraine in 2022 and have since lived in several countries, including Lithuania and Germany. Despite these changes, I continue my private practice, as people need help and support now more than ever.
Bridging two worlds: encouraging language learning.
If I could bring one idea to help rebuild Ukraine, it would be a stronger system of promoting foreign language learning at all ages.
Language skills open up new opportunities for individuals and society as a whole. In many countries, local and state authorities actively support multilingual education, recognising that speaking several languages improves employment prospects, access to international knowledge and cultural exchange. In Ukraine’s future, I see a system where foreign language learning – starting with English as a second state-supported language – is widely encouraged and accessible to all.
Local authorities could play a key role by offering free or subsidised language courses, integrating foreign languages into public education and community programmes, and supporting cultural exchange initiatives. Libraries, schools and community centres could host language clubs and conversation groups, creating an environment where language learning is not just a requirement, but a natural and engaging process.
It would be great to see community leaders making language learning more accessible in Ukraine. Investing in language education is investing in Ukraine’s global future, making our country stronger and more connected to the world.
