Intensive Training Sessions for Peer Group Facilitators

From 13 to 17 May, we organized three educational events for the community of peer group facilitators.

Two intensive training sessions brought together 47 specialists, both experienced professionals and newcomers who had recently completed a basic online course on creating and facilitating peer groups. Beyond providing a platform for sharing experiences and practicing facilitation skills, these trainings foster new horizontal connections, introducing to colleagues from peer groups across the country.

Here’s what some of the participants had to say:

“Unforgettable emotions. An ocean of kindness. A sea of professionals. New connections. I wanted to absorb everything in just two days—every word, every movement, every emotion. It was all new to me. I was fascinated to learn how a group develops, how to enhance group dynamics, and why a facilitator is essential. I especially loved the icebreaker methods—they can be fun, pleasant, and creative,” shares Silviia Boiarova, head nurse at the Chernihiv District Primary Healthcare Center.

“For me, these three days of training flew by in an instant—the learning process, the immediate application of newly acquired tools, and the formation of a clear action plan were all seamlessly integrated. As the head of a healthcare institution, I apply the knowledge gained not only when facilitating peer groups but also in my daily work—communicating with colleagues and patients. This motivates me to keep moving forward, learning, reading, and discussing my experiences. To stand by those who need support—and not to be afraid to accept it from colleagues,” reflects Iryna Sert, director of Romanivska Hospital.

As part of the initiative, we also introduced a new format for the first time—a workshop for mentor facilitators of peer groups. Olga Korolenko, who coordinates the peer group initiative within the project, emphasized that as the peer group format evolves and the number of professionals eager to implement it in their institutions grows, it is crucial to expand training opportunities for future facilitators and maintain the quality of the model itself.

To address this, the project is now preparing mentors—experienced facilitators who can provide direct support, train colleagues during sessions, and ensure the proper development and quality of peer groups in Ukraine. This year, 12 peer group facilitators completed their mentorship training and are now ready to support and guide their less experienced colleagues in improving and growing their peer groups.

A huge thank you to Olga Bershadska, educational trainer, facilitator, and co-trainer of educational programs for peer group facilitators, and Anastasiia Drachuk, facilitator and expert in education and cultural development, for their invaluable contributions to these training sessions!