Launch of the ‘New Start’ project in Berlin: a camp for medics who work in war-torn areas
From December 13th to 20th, Mission Ukraine launched the first camp of the “New Start” project—a psychological rehabilitation programme for health professionals working on the frontlines of the war in Ukraine. The Berlin camp welcomed a group of courageous women—doctors, paramedics, and other first responders—who face immense physical and emotional challenges in their daily roles. The programme, adapted to meet the unique needs of Ukrainian participants, aimed to reduce burnout, foster resilience, and equip participants with tools for self-care and emotional recovery.
The camp was organised by Mission Ukraine in partnership with Camp Aftermath(Canada), Be an Angel Charity Foundation (Germany). The support of Flix SE / FlixBus(Germany) to bring the participants safely to Berlin and back to Kyiv, as well as the support of the Centrovital Spa & Sports Hotel in creating a great environment to relax—including a spa and gym—was invaluable. The project is generously supported by the Else Kröner-Fresenius-Stiftung (EKFS), whose funding made this important initiative possible.
The Berlin camp was the first step in a wider programme to provide Ukrainian healthcare workers with tools for burnout prevention, emotional regulation, and self-care. Based on Camp Aftermath’s proven three-phase model, the camp provided a safe space for participants to reconnect with themselves, connect with others in similar roles, and recharge for the challenges ahead.
The camp’s agenda included a variety of activities designed to foster healing, resilience, and personal renewal:
- Mindfulness and somatic restoration exercises
- Boundary-setting and stress-management workshops
- Grounding techniques, breathing practices, and yoga
- Group reflections to build trust and connection
- Opportunities for individual psychological consultations
By the final day, participants reported feeling recharged and recommitted to their work, equipped with tools to sustain their well-being.
Farid Yaghini, founder of Camp Aftermath, emphasized the significance of providing healthcare workers with a supportive space:
“This retreat underscored the universal nature of trauma—and the shared pathways to recovery. Participants left feeling recharged and recommitted to their critical roles, equipped with tools to sustain their well-being.”
Dr. John Whelan, Camp Aftermath’s Chief Mental Health Expert and the project’s psychological supervisor, highlighted the transformative power of vulnerability:
“Through tailored therapeutic activities, these women began to recharge emotionally and physically. By the final day, the sense of connection within the group was palpable. Vulnerability became their strength, and they returned to Ukraine better equipped to navigate the challenges ahead with compassion and resilience.”
Read their full reflections:
- Camp Aftermath Supports Ukraine’s Frontline Heroes by Farid Yaghini
- Reflections from Berlin: The Power of Vulnerability and Connection by Dr. Whelan
Olena Sergienko, who conceptualized the “New Start” project and collaborated closely with the Canadian team, reflected on the camp’s impact:
“Designing this project was both a professional challenge and a deeply personal mission. Working with Farid Yaghini, Dr. John Whelan, and the entire Camp Aftermath team was an enriching experience. Together, we tailored their methodologies to meet the unique needs of our participants, ensuring the camp would truly support their emotional well-being. Witnessing the transformation in our participants, as they departed with renewed strength, resilience, and hope, was an indescribable honor and the most profound reward of this journey.”
Nataliya Lukyanova and Oksana Schocher, the co-founders of Mission Ukraine, shared their reflections on the launch of the “New Start” project:
“As the co-founders of Mission Ukraine, witnessing the launch of the “New Start” project has been deeply moving and profoundly rewarding. The resilience and dedication of our healthcare professionals, who work tirelessly on the frontlines, inspire us to create meaningful opportunities for their recovery and renewal.
This camp in Berlin was not just a program—it was a reminder of the strength we find in connection and the importance of taking care of those who care for others. We are incredibly grateful to our partners and funders who made this initiative possible and look forward to continuing this journey with our upcoming camps in the Carpathian mountains. Together, we are making a difference—one step at a time.”
The Berlin camp marks the beginning of the New Start project. Two more camps are already scheduled to take place in the Carpathian mountains in 2025, continuing this vital work of supporting health professionals serving in war-torn zones.
The New Start project demonstrates the power of collaboration and the commitment of Mission Ukraine and its partners to address the mental health challenges faced by frontline responders. Together, we are paving the way for stronger, more resilient caregivers.