Family-Friendly Weekend with Empower to Employ

A day of connection, relaxation, and community spirit

At Empower to Employ, we understand that building a career is never a solo journey. Behind every step forward stands a network of encouragement — family, friends, mentors, coaches, and peers. That’s why our project focuses not only on job skills and training, but also on creating space for human connection, mental well-being, and community belonging.

One of the most heartwarming and joyful moments of this spring was our family-friendly weekend — an event that brought together participants of the program, their children, partners, and friends for a day of sharing, presence, and rest. Held outdoors in the fresh air, this gathering reminded us how essential it is to slow down, reconnect, and feel seen — both as professionals and as people.

The day began with a gentle yoga session, guided by Stella Nahnybida, a participant of Empower to Employ. Stella, whose personal journey of growth and resilience has inspired many in our community, led the group through breathing, movement, and mindfulness. Her calm energy and inclusive approach created a peaceful moment for everyone — from job seekers and career changers to young parents balancing it all.

Afterwards, we moved into a shared community picnic, where everyone brought a dish from home. From Ukrainian pastries to local snacks and homemade sweets, the picnic became a vibrant exchange of cultures and flavors. The picnic tables were full of conversation, support, and informal mentoring — reminding us that professional growth doesn’t always happen in meeting rooms. Sometimes it happens over tea in the park.

Nearby, children laughed, ran barefoot, and played in a small creative corner with drawing paper and paints. These small but meaningful details — flying a kite, painting a rock, or simply lying in the grass — became symbols of lightness and belonging.

In a time when many feel disconnected, this day proved that community is a form of empowerment. By sharing space, food, stories, and silence, we help each other breathe deeper and move forward.

This event — like every part of the Empower to Employ project — was free and open to all, whether you came as a job seeker, a newcomer, an entrepreneur, or simply as a parent in need of connection. We welcome everyone who believes in dignity, learning, and building together.

Empower to Employ is an initiative of the Luxembourg-Ukraine Chamber of Commerce (LUCC), with the support of FSE+ and the Ministère du Travail Luxembourg.

It’s not just about employment.

It’s about people. It’s about purpose.

And it’s about the strength we build — together.