Tetyana Kostorna, a 44-year-old woman, decided to make her dreams come true by creating an art space for adults: the Chemodan ("Suitcase") Art Club. According to her, people over 30 are systematically overlooked in many cultural spaces outside working hours. Most events, especially in smaller cities, are targeted at a youth or children’s audience. “Apparently, organizers visualize a woman who only cooks borsch and cleans a flat after work every day, or a man who lies on the couch till morning. At the same time, adults have their own dreams, desires and hobbies that have simply no place to be fulfilled”, says Tetyana.

Hence, Tetyana’s idea was to create a space for arts and leisure, providing opportunities for the emergence of new ideas and inspiration, with no restrictions or separation between women, men, single or not, having children or not, being a person with special needs, etc. In her own words, "we strive to unite through creativity, not to tag people or divide them by any features". The club has a systems program where the participants can learn painting and study the legacy of artists of different epochs. The program considers each person’s individual workload and needs. It aims to expand horizons and has an ongoing focus on recreation.

Tetyana believes that the training she received from the ILO helped her coordinate her work according to a financial plan, while reinforcing essential practical skills and psychological attitudes. Thanks to the training support, she was able to see not only financial results, but also to clearly plan her next steps.