The Korets City Council's Youth Internship Program has been highly successful, with four out of six interns securing jobs within the council. This transformative initiative was launched in 2022, following a landmark cooperation agreement between Korets and the USAID HOVERLA Activity. Through this partnership, the internship program was introduced, marking a significant step in the city's efforts to nurture its young talent.

“Previously, we had students come for internships and familiarization visits, but we hadn't had an internship program yet,” shares Iryna Opanasiuk, head of the Project Activities, Investment Development, and International Cooperation Department.

Korets announced the applications for internships on social media and received eight applications. Among the candidates, six of the most motivated youths were selected.

One of the interns was 20-year-old Adriana Shuvalova. She studied geography and tourism at the Taras Shevchenko National University in Kyiv and was eager to work in her field. However, without relevant experience, she couldn’t find a job. So, when she saw the internship announcement in the community, she applied immediately.

“Initially, there was a general online meeting where we talked about our motivation and were introduced to the department heads,” says Adriana Shuvalova.

Each department had a 10-day program of theory and practice for the young interns. At the Cultural Services Center, interns wrote scripts for events; in the general organizational and HR departments, the focus was on documents. On the other hand, Adriana conducted museum tours and compiled topographic descriptions.

Adriana's internship supervisor, Iryna Voyat, the head of the Korets Historical Museum, praised Adriana’s performance.

“Adriana played a key role in organizing a quest for the Children’s Day. She demonstrated excellent communication skills, collaborated with the other team members, and was enthusiastic about her work.”

Four out of six participants received job offers at the end of the internship.

“Initially, employment wasn’t an option – but this successful experience was a pleasant surprise for us! Youth is a valuable asset for every community, especially for small ones like ours. Therefore, the task of the local council is to create a comfortable environment for the youth so that they don’t leave but stay in the community,” explains Iryna Opanasiuk.

Adriana Shuvalova became a research associate at the Korets Historical Museum. Now, she talks about local artists and the full-scale invasion. She also participates in the youth council and helps develop youth spaces in the community alongside other interns.

“This is an amazing experience that shows that the authorities support youth and give them opportunities to contribute to the development of their community,” concludes Adriana.

Due to the productive experience, the Korets City Council will hold another round of the Youth Internship Program with the support of the USAID HOVERLA Activity.

The USAID HOVERLA Activity recognized the Korets community for Best Practice in Youth Empowerment.

HOVERLA supports the Ministry of Restoration's efforts to enhance the communities’ institutional capacity and creating opportunities for residents.