A WOF-UA Grantee’s Harrowing and Inspiring Journey

Valeriia Lisitsa has suffered devastating losses throughout the Russian-Ukraine war. But with help from Project Kesher Ukraine’s Women’s Opportunity Fund (WOF-UA), she has reclaimed much of her life. In 2022, Valeriia lost her livelihood when the Russian invasion destroyed her thriving clothing workshop and fabric warehouse in Mariupol. Then came the heartbreaking loss of her mother and the harrowing task of rescuing her brother from captivity. Despite the trauma and displacement, she carried her passion for fashion to Dnipro, determined to rebuild.

WOF-UA granted Valeriia funding for essential equipment to restart her business, helping her launch a new collection inspired by the “scent of the Azov Sea.” Her production is now more streamlined and orders are already booked a month in advance.

“Like the fairy godmother from a cartoon, the fund sees your potential and unlocks it with its support,” said Valeriia. “For me, it became a strong incentive to keep moving forward. You understand that someone believes in you, and there's no room for failure.”