UNICEF and SOK Foundation ignite innovation: Ukrainian Youth Hackathon sparks digital solutions for a brighter tomorrow

Warsaw, October 18–19, 2025 – The UNICEF Refugee Response Office in Poland, Polish National Committee for UNICEF, and the SOK Foundation are jointly organizing a unique event – Hackathon for Change, aimed at supporting refugee youth from Ukraine in building their educational and professional futures.

The event is part of a broader programme led by UNICEF and its partners helping young people find development paths aligned with their potential – through education, digital skills, and career planning support.

During the two-day innovation-driven hackathon, youth from Ukraine will work in teams alongside professionals from the IT, education, and business sectors. Together, they will creatively tackle the challenge: Design an interactive tool or service to help Ukrainian youth find their educational or career path after high school.

The hackathon was preceded by exploratory workshops, where participants shared their experiences and needs – these insights served as the foundation for the hackathon theme.

“Displaced youth face immense hardship, yet they possess incredible potential, innovation, and determination. This hackathon is a chance to highlight their talents and equip them with the resources to build a better future. When diverse sectors unite, we can foster inclusive spaces where all young people – regardless of their origins – can thrive and develop their talents,” said Diana Vakarelska, Country Coordinator for the UNICEF Refugee Response Office in Poland.

“Refugee youth from Ukraine are not just individuals in need – they are future leaders, innovators, and solution designers. We believe they have enormous potential to contribute to both Ukraine’s recovery and to the communities where they now live. It is our responsibility as adults – institutions, organizations, and companies – to create spaces where they can explore, grow, and transform that potential into real action”, said Katia Roman, President of the SOK Foundation.

Thanks to the involvement of mentors, experts, and partners, participants will not only gain access to knowledge and tools but also real opportunities for development beyond the event – including mentoring and participation in Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives.

As the lead organization, UNICEF, together with the SOK Foundation, ensures that all activities align with international child protection standards and promote best practices in accessible-integrated education.

More information: https://hackathonforchange.com/en/english/.