Her work is supporting local communities and championing sustainable, responsible leadership in the face of immense challenges.
From mentoring hundreds of entrepreneurs to building a platform reaching tens of thousands, Lilia Kuzik is helping Ukrainian businesses survive and grow during wartime, strengthening the country’s economic resilience while championing values of innovation, collaboration, and responsible leadership.
Lilia completed her MSc in Sustainability Management and Innovation at the University of Westminster and returned to Ukraine in 2023. Since then, she has worked with several hundred trainees and mentees, supported early-stage businesses, and co-founded a sustainability-focused podcast equipping organisations with the tools to operate in highly challenging conditions.
Turning knowledge into action
‘It became clear to me that the knowledge, global perspective, and international network gained through Chevening should be transformed into meaningful impact for my country, helping Ukraine withstand current challenges and Build Back Better.’
Drawing on the global outlook and academic expertise developed in the UK, Lilia applied international best practice in sustainability to real-world challenges in Ukraine.
In December 2024, she co-founded a podcast dedicated to sustainable business practices in Ukraine. Since its launch, it has produced more than 20 episodes across two seasons, covering topics such as green finance, circular economy strategies, ESG reporting, and corporate social responsibility.
Inspiring resilience
The podcast has quickly established itself as a trusted platform, featuring voices from across the sustainability sector, including global organisations. One episode on venture building and sustainable finance reached over 60,000 views.
Beyond knowledge sharing, the platform has become a source of encouragement.
‘We often hear from listeners who reach out, saying, ‘I’ve been listening to your podcast, and now I have more strength to continue my business.
By sharing stories of businesses rebuilding recently de-occupied areas, the podcast highlights resilience in action, showing ‘Ukrainian resilience to Ukrainians themselves.’
Mentoring the next generation of entrepreneurs
Alongside the podcast, Lilia has mentored hundreds of entrepreneurs, including women-led and veteran-led businesses, through partnerships with organisations such as the Superhumans Centre.
She supports individuals at early stages of their journey, often working with limited resources.
‘Many of the people I work with come to me with just an idea and limited resources, sometimes only enough for a few critical steps.’
One notable success is Vin Nut, a company founded by veterans, which secured 1,000,000 UAH in funding following her mentorship, continuing to grow and participate to economic recovery and innovation.
Contributing to long-term recovery
Through her work, she is contributing to Ukraine’s long-term recovery by strengthening small businesses and encouraging sustainable and socially responsible practices.
‘Every business that survives and grows contributes to Ukraine’s living economy: paying taxes, creating jobs, building teams, and giving people a sense of purpose and direction.
‘As mentees grow, many begin to introduce sustainability and social policies into their businesses as part of their mission.’
A lasting connection to the UK
‘Chevening played an important role in shaping my professional path and outlook.’
Lilia maintains strong ties with the UK through her work including a return to the University of Westminster as a guest lecturer, sharing her experience with current students.
Through education, mentorship, and leadership, Lilia is demonstrating how Chevening fosters globally minded leaders, using knowledge, collaboration, and innovation to build a more resilient and sustainable future.
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