Three questions for... Vira Dranhoi

Vira Dranhoi, Vidnova fellow, President of the NGO "Human Rights Roma Center"

Vira Dranhoi was a recipient of the Vidnova Fellowship we were funding. It supports civil society actors from Ukraine who have been forced to leave their local context – financially and with mentoring. As the president of the "Human Rights Roma Center" she leads efforts to support and empower Roma communities. She is from Odesa (Ukraine) and is currently studying at the Central European University in Vienna (Austria).

What inspired you to apply for the Vidnova Scholarship - UA? What did you focus on or work on during this period?
The Vidnova Scholarship – UA resonated with my dedication to advancing human rights and social justice, particularly in supporting the Roma community. This program provided an opportunity to amplify the voices of Roma individuals, address systemic challenges they face, and integrate my expertise into impactful projects. During this period, I concentrated on initiatives specifically aimed at empowering Roma youth, improving their access to justice, and addressing systemic inequalities. This included organizing workshops, providing legal consultations, and participating in research projects that highlighted the challenges faced by Roma communities in Ukraine.

Additionally, I took part in a media initiative focused on creating video content for Roma youth. These videos were designed to expand opportunities for their personal and professional growth by exploring topics such as studying abroad and building careers in the digital sector, etc. These initiatives were a vital part of my work to empower Roma youth, providing them with the knowledge and tools needed to overcome barriers and unlock their potential. 

Why do you believe this project is important right now? 
This project is critically important at this moment because the Roma community in Ukraine continues to face significant socio-economic challenges, exacerbated by the ongoing war and its consequences. These challenges include systemic discrimination, limited access to education, legal aid, and social services, as well as heightened vulnerability during times of crisis. Addressing these issues now is essential for preventing further marginalization and fostering long-term resilience within the community.

Through this project, I aim to achieve several meaningful changes. First, I seek to empower Roma youth by providing them with the tools, knowledge, and confidence to advocate for their rights and pursue opportunities for personal and professional growth. By organizing educational workshops and creating accessible resources, the project will help bridge gaps in education and awareness.

Moreover I hope to enhance the community's access to justice through legal support initiatives that tackle discrimination and promote equal treatment. This will include providing legal consultations and working on policy advocacy to ensure that the rights of Roma individuals are respected and protected.

Finally, the project aspires to foster positive societal change by combating stereotypes and promoting inclusion. By amplifying Roma voices and showcasing their potential, the initiative aims to break down barriers and build pathways for a more equitable and just society. These efforts are not only vital for the Roma community but also contribute to the broader mission of creating a society that values diversity and equal opportunity for all.

What are your aspirations for the future, both in your professional and personal life?
My aspirations for the future are deeply rooted in my commitment to advancing human rights and creating systemic change for the Roma community. Professionally, I aim to establish myself as an expert in international law on the protection of human rights and minority rights advocacy. I envision working with global organizations, such as the United Nations or other international human rights bodies, to implement policies and programs that empower underrepresented groups and address structural inequalities.

On a personal level, I aspire to continuously grow as a leader and advocate, expanding my impact through education, collaboration, and grassroots initiatives. I plan to develop projects that combine legal aid, educational programs, and community building to create sustainable change and opportunity for Roma communities.

I fully intend to stay actively involved in the Vidnova network and participate in future EVZ projects. These platforms provide invaluable resources, partnerships, and opportunities to amplify the work I am passionate about. By maintaining these connections, I hope to collaborate with like-minded individuals and organizations, contribute to innovative initiatives, and further the mission of inclusion and equality in Ukraine and beyond. My long-term goal is to create a legacy of impactful work that inspires others to join the fight for human rights and justice.