By Samantha Carty, Momentum
Nataliia Velychko is a graduate of the National Technical University of Ukraine “Igor Sikorsky Kyiv Polytechnic Institute” in Kyiv, Ukraine. She holds a Master’s degree in Research Engineering. However, it was her passion for digital marketing that shaped her professional journey for eight years. Starting her career as a social media manager at Forbes Ukraine, Nataliia connected with audiences and harnessed the power of digital platforms. She then joined the team at mind.ua, a new online business news publication in Ukraine, where she contributed to the publication’s development.
But life rapidly changed in March 2022 when Nataliia had to leave Ukraine and move to Germany. In June 2022, Nataliia joined the Science-to-Business Marketing Research Centre (S2BMRC) at FH Münster, Germany where she was tasked with developing a new digital marketing strategy for the research institute and its many projects. Nataliia soon became a valued member of the team at FH Münster, who originated the NatAlli project. Nataliia’s contribution not only influenced the idea but also inspired the team to select her name for the project.
Nataliia’s story is at the heart of NatAlli, symbolising the project’s goals of support, cooperation, and the exchange of ideas and experiences. Her move to Germany amidst the challenges faced by many Ukrainians, highlights the importance of creating a supportive community that nurtures professional and personal growth. The NatAlli project not only acknowledges the hardships faced by individuals like Nataliia but also celebrates their achievements and contributions to their new environments. It’s a testament to how unity and collaboration can overcome adversity and lead to innovative solutions and growth.
Speaking about her role in NatAlli, Nataliia says, “When I arrived in Germany in March 2022, I probably like most Ukrainians, felt completely lost. I was very lucky to meet the S2B team and their partners, who have been very supportive both professionally and personally. That’s why the NatAlli project is so important because it aims to create a community in which the element of support, co-operation, exchange of ideas and experience will be key. After all, unity is what can withstand injustice, aggression and other destructive processes in the world”.
Nataliia’s story is a reminder that with the right mix of education, experience, and community support, overcoming challenges and achieving success is within reach. It also mirrors the NatAlli project’s vision: to create opportunities for growth, innovation, and success for highly educated Ukrainian women in the global entrepreneurial landscape. The NatAlli project is not just about creating successful entrepreneurs; it’s about building a community that stands together, shares knowledge and is driven by a spirit of cooperation and mutual support.
