A woman who fled war-torn Ukraine with her mother and daughter to embrace a new life in the North East has celebrated graduating with distinction from a university.
Victoria 'Vikki' Ishcheriakova, who left her home in Poltava in April 2022 following the outbreak of conflict, has since built a new life in Sunderland, gaining a master’s degree while rebuilding her career in a new language and country.
She said: "Coming to the University of Sunderland became a turning point for me.
"I went back into education, challenged myself academically in a different language, and took the opportunity to work at the University to gain valuable experience while improving my academic English.
"Step by step I began to rebuild my confidence and professional identity."
After arriving in the UK under the Homes for Ukraine scheme, Mrs Ishcheriakova and her family settled in Ryhope with a host family.
With 20 years of legal experience in Ukraine, she was unable to practise law in the UK and had to restart her training from scratch.
She began working as an assistant in the university’s apprenticeship team in September 2022, before moving to a role in the CPD (Continuing Professional Development) team.
She enrolled onto the University of Sunderland’s Master of Laws (LLM) programme in April 2024, choosing the online, part-time option so she could continue working while studying.
Her mother and daughter watched proudly as she crossed the stage during the university’s summer graduation ceremonies at The Fire Station in Sunderland city centre.
She said: "What makes Sunderland so special is the people.
"The University has been incredibly inclusive, I have never felt like a stranger here.
"From the very beginning I was welcomed with kindness and genuine support.
"I am especially grateful to my colleagues and friends for their encouragement, mentorship, and for making me feel part of a community.
"Their support has played a huge role in helping me grow both personally and professionally.
"Sunderland has truly become my home.
"It’s where my family and I feel safe, supported and able to build a future with confidence.
"That sense of security and social protection means a lot to us, especially after everything we have been through."
Dr Vicki Jowett, head of school for social sciences and law at the University of Sunderland, said: "Vikki's journey provides a powerful example of resilience, determination and ambition.
"Despite challenging personal circumstances, Vikki managed to achieve her LLM Master of Laws whilst adapting to a new country, studying in a second language, and supporting her family.
"She is a clear example of what the University of Sunderland aims to achieve: providing an inclusive, student-centred approach to prepare our graduates with the skills and knowledge to thrive in their chosen career."
Mrs Ishcheriakova now works full-time in the university’s CPD team and, since January, has been gaining legal experience through voluntary work at Richard Reed Solicitors in Sunderland.
She plans to remain in the city and continue her professional development in the legal field.
Her daughter, Yasya, is 13 and attends St Anthony’s Girls’ Catholic Academy in Sunderland, where she was named Student of the Year upon leaving primary school.
Her mother, Svitlana, is active in the local Ukrainian community, raising funds and donations for those in need back home.
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Reflecting on her journey, Mrs Ishcheriakova said: "Looking back now, I can honestly say that my time here has been life changing.
"I am a completely different person today – more focused, more resilient, and with a much stronger sense of purpose and ambition.
"While my journey started under very difficult circumstances it has led me to growth and opportunities I might never have experienced."
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