We are incredibly proud to see the work of TESOL-Ukraine featured in the latest issue of IATEFL Voices (May/June 2026). In their moving article, Serhii Petrenko (International Coordinator) and Olena Ilienko (President) share how our professional community has stayed united despite the immense challenges of war.
Since 2022, Ukrainian educators have faced air raids and displacement, yet they haven’t stopped learning or teaching. Through initiatives like the “Word Magic” creative writing institute and the EMI Basics course for university lecturers, TESOL-Ukraine is proving that professional development is a powerful tool for solidarity and resilience.
Key Highlights from the Article:
Mentorship Matters: A new program pairing experienced teachers with early-career colleagues to navigate the unique emotional demands of teaching in a country at war.
Global Connection: From Edinburgh to the US, Ukrainian teachers are sharing their expertise on the world stage, ensuring their voices are heard in the global ELT conversation.
Innovation: Integrating AI tools and trauma-sensitive approaches to support students’ emotional well-being.
As Serhii and Olena write, maintaining these connections is about more than just “skills”—it’s about preserving academic identity and building a future for Ukraine.
Read more about their journey and the four pillars of cross-cultural engagement that keep our community holding firm. https://issuu.com/iatefl/docs/iatefl_voices_issue_310_e4dde461c1c613?fr=sMGRlZjkxNTk3NzA