As we reflect on the remarkable opening of the “Educating for Tomorrow: Ukrainian Values in a Global World” conference, we are overwhelmed with gratitude for the dedication, commitment, and extraordinary efforts that transformed this event into an unforgettable experience. From the very first moment of the opening ceremony, every individual played a significant role in ensuring that our collective mission, preserving and promoting Ukrainian values within a global context, was carried forward with strength and unity.
Our conference began in a deeply meaningful way, with a territorial acknowledgment that reminded us of the importance of land, heritage, and respect. We extend our deepest gratitude to Elder Gwendy Campbell-McArthur, whose heartfelt opening prayer set the tone for our gathering, grounding us in a spirit of goodwill, respect, and connection. Her words resonated with all of us, reminding us of the power of tradition and the responsibility we hold in fostering a space of learning, inclusivity, and reconciliation.
We were honored to receive a warm welcome from Member of Parliament Frank Caputo, who delivered an in-person message on behalf of the Government of Canada. MP Caputo’s steadfast support for Ukraine, both in words and actions, has been an inspiring force, highlighting Canada’s unwavering commitment to standing with Ukraine in these pivotal times. His dedication to keeping Ukraine at the forefront of Canadian policy and advocacy speaks volumes about the strength of international solidarity. We are beyond grateful for his presence and his continuous work in ensuring that Ukraine remains a global priority.
A special moment was shared when Father Andrzej Wasylinko led a spiritual prayer for Ukraine, allowing us to connect not only with our own faith and values but also with each other. His prayer brought forth a moment of unity and reflection, reinforcing the importance of spiritual resilience in the face of global challenges. His words filled us with hope and a deep sense of purpose as we embarked on this journey together.
The heart of the conference lay in the powerful words shared by our organizing committee members, each representing different universities and institutions from across the globe. Their welcome addresses highlighted the unique perspectives and collective commitment that brought this event to life. Not every member was able to be in person on Zoom but we remember each of them as their collective wisdom inspired us to develop the call for abstracts that united us all:
• Inna Belova, PhD in Economics, Associate Professor, Head of the Department of Social Welfare at Cherkasy State Technological University.
• Juliana West, PhD, Associate Professor, Social Work Department, Thompson Rivers University.
• Kateryna Kasyanets, student of the Faculty of Ukrainian and Foreign Philology and Journalism at Kherson State University.
• Larysa Nozdrina, PhD in Economics, Associate Professor of the Department of Information Systems in Management, Faculty of Economics, Ivan Franko National University of Lviv.
• Nataliia Bykovets, PhD, Associate Professor, Head of the Department of Transport Management, Danube Institute of National University “Odessa Maritime Academy.”
• Nataliia Dobroyer, PhD in Art History, Associate Professor of the Department of Cultural Studies and Philosophy of Culture, Odessa Polytechnic National University.
• Oleksandr Kondrashov, PhD, Associate Professor, Social Work Department, Thompson Rivers University.
• Pavlo Teslenko, PhD, Head of the Department of Artificial Intelligence and Data Analysis, Odessa Polytechnic National University.
• Svitlana Arkhipova, Doctor of Pedagogical Sciences, Professor at the Department of Social Security, Cherkasy State Technological University.
• Tania Hryhorska, Responsible for educational projects at the Coordination Center of the Congress of Ukrainians in Italy.
• Tetyana Pomazan, Teacher at Calgary Board of Education.
• Vira Baryshnikova, PhD, Associate Professor, Department of Economics and Finance, Odesa National Maritime University.
• Zoryana Galadzhun, Associate Professor, Head of the Department of Journalism and Mass Communication, Lviv Polytechnic National University.
Their personal stories and institutional commitment contributed to the beautiful tapestry of knowledge, collaboration, and ambition. The personal stories shared were not just formal greetings; they were testaments to the resilience of the Ukrainian academic community, the dedication to education, and the belief in a future where knowledge transcends borders.
Another vital pillar of our success was the Abstract Review Committee, consisting of distinguished scholars:
• Juliana West, PhD, Associate Professor, Social Work Department, Thompson Rivers University.
• Nataliia Bykovets, PhD, Associate Professor, Head of the Department of Transport Management, Danube Institute of National University “Odessa Maritime Academy.”
• Oleksandr Kondrashov, PhD, Associate Professor, Social Work Department, Thompson Rivers University.
• Vira Baryshnikova, PhD, Associate Professor, Department of Economics and Finance, Odesa National Maritime University.
Their tireless work in reviewing, refining, and curating the abstracts submitted by researchers from around the world ensured that this conference truly embodied academic excellence and innovation. The sheer dedication in meticulously going through each submission speaks to the integrity and passion that drive this conference forward. To every researcher who submitted their work, your contributions are invaluable, and we are grateful for your role in shaping the future of education.
One of the most moving moments of the day was when we had the chance to embark on a global journey, listening to voices from Georgia and Lithuania. Their stories not only broadened our understanding of global challenges but also reinforced the deep interconnectedness of our struggles, hopes, and aspirations. Nino Shatberashvili from Ivane Javakhishvili Tbilisi State University and Ihor Lameko, a student at Vilnius University, shared their perspectives in person and through powerful messages on the evolving landscape of global education, Ukrainian diaspora efforts, and cross-border collaborations. Their stories emphasized the shared challenges and opportunities that arise in fostering international academic unity and cultural exchange.
Celebrating the Presence of Ukrainian Scholars and Leadership
The Educating for Tomorrow: Ukrainian Values in a Global World conference brought together an incredible presence from all over Ukraine, including Kharkiv, Kherson, Zhytomyr, Lviv, Kyiv, Odesa, and beyond. Each greeting, each shared word, and every moment of collaboration reinforced the unity of Ukraine, proving that Ukrainian scholars are making changes every single day. Their work is not only preserving Ukraine’s cultural and educational heritage but also pushing forward new research, technology, and global dialogue.
From artificial intelligence and social welfare to journalism and maritime studies, Ukrainian academia is shaping the future. The greeting words showcased how Ukrainian identity remains strong in an evolving global landscape, and how education serves as a bridge to international collaboration.
We were honored to have the TRU leadership present, including the President Brett Fairbairn and AVP International Justin Kohlman, who, despite the short notice, extended their greetings and joined in person and through carefully crafted letters to show their solidarity. Their presence underscored the importance of global partnerships and institutional support in advancing education and fostering cross-cultural cooperation.
This conference has not only strengthened academic and personal connections but has also served as a testament to the resilience, innovation, and dedication of the Ukrainian scholarly community.
Together, we continue to shape the future of education and uphold the values that define us.
As we move forward into the next days of this conference, we encourage each of you to continue sharing your stories. Each experience, insight, and perspective contributes to a collective dialogue that strengthens our mission and fortifies the bonds between our communities.
To everyone who made this first day such an extraordinary success, organizers, speakers, presenters, attendees, and supporters, thank you. Your contributions, both seen and unseen, are what make this event possible. This is just the beginning, and with such an inspiring start, we look forward to the transformative discussions and connections that await in the coming days.