A Ukrainian Woman's Journey in Japan's Rebuilding Spirit

Learning from Japan's Resilience

Anhelina Moroz, a 24-year-old Ukrainian, stood amidst the exhibits of the Great Hanshin-Awaji Earthquake Memorial in Kobe, her gaze filled with contemplation. The museum documented the devastation caused by the 1995 earthquake and the subsequent rebuilding efforts, offering valuable lessons for her war-torn homeland.

"Although it did not result from war, learning from how Japan has overcome numerous natural disasters will be valuable when we grapple with rebuilding," she said, tears welling up in her eyes.

Moroz was part of a group of Ukrainian women who visited the museum as part of a training program facilitated by Japanese Supports for Ukrainian Students (JSUS). This coalition of over 40 language schools across Japan has been providing support to displaced Ukrainians since the start of the Russian invasion in February 2022.

The program includes free Japanese lessons, assistance with settling into their host communities, and specialized training for a select group of 10 Ukrainians, including Moroz. These individuals will acquire knowledge and skills that will be crucial in rebuilding their nation.

Moroz, who arrived in Japan last year, is currently taking a Japanese course at the Seifu Institute of Information Technology and Japanese Language in Osaka. She also works as a paid intern for Inte Co., a company specializing in power line maintenance in Nishinomiya.

Inte's President, Yoshitsugu Ienaga, is a strong supporter of the program. He believes that learning about Japan's infrastructure maintenance can be beneficial for Ukrainians. Ienaga, who was born in the year of Japan's surrender in World War II, is deeply angered by Russia's invasion and is committed to offering meaningful aid.

He plans to have Moroz gain experience in international market research, CAD (computer-aided design), and sales activities related to specialized vehicles handling electricity lines. He is impressed by her intelligence and quick learning ability, but believes she is "too good" for his company and should work for the sake of her country.

Moroz, while hoping to eventually return to Ukraine, acknowledges that it may not be possible for some time due to the ongoing conflict. She also shares her long-held dream of living in Japan, fueled by her love for Japanese anime since childhood.

Among the initial group of 104 Ukrainians accepted by JSUS, 25 have already started working in Japan, mostly in the service sector and IT companies. Mariia Bondarenko, a 22-year-old Ukrainian working with JSUS, assists her compatriots in adjusting to life abroad.

She understands their anxieties about safety and job opportunities upon returning home, but believes their experiences in Japan will ultimately contribute to rebuilding their nation. Bondarenko hopes to convey the sense of unity and hard work that fueled Japan's post-war recovery to her fellow Ukrainians, inspiring them to rebuild their own resilient country.