A War Veteran Launches Lviv’s First Fully Accessible Coworking Space for People with Disabilities.

Inclusive Hub 'Bereh' Opens Its Doors

According to UATV: Ukrainian war veteran Volodymyr Saveliev has opened an inclusive coworking space called 'Bereh' in Lviv, designed to support veterans and provide a workspace where they can connect and collaborate. This initiative is especially significant because most coworking spaces in Lviv remain inaccessible to people with disabilities, limiting their opportunities for professional growth.

Before the full-scale war began, Saveliev worked as a designer. In 2023, he signed a contract with the Armed Forces of Ukraine, demonstrating his commitment to defending his country. However, on October 15, 2024, he sustained a severe injury after stepping on a landmine, leading to a lengthy recovery. He has undergone 13 surgeries and now uses prosthetics, yet this has not stopped him from pursuing his vision.

The Mission Behind 'Bereh'

Spanning roughly 100 square meters, the 'Bereh' coworking space aims to be a place where veterans can not only work but also interact with others. Saveliev emphasizes the importance of designing an environment where wheelchair users can move around freely.

“It’s essential that a person in a wheelchair can navigate the space without obstacles,” says Volodymyr Saveliev.

Beyond day-to-day work, the space plans to host lectures and workshops, including sessions on tactical medicine. These programs will give veterans additional opportunities to build new skills and knowledge. Saveliev also notes that

“rehabilitation is a process that never truly ends, because new challenges always emerge,” he explains.

In this way, the opening of 'Bereh' marks a major step forward in supporting veterans and fostering an inclusive community in Lviv.

The launch of 'Bereh' highlights the critical need for inclusivity in society, especially for people with disabilities who require support in their professional development. By offering a space where veterans can both work and learn, this initiative aids their rehabilitation and reintegration into the community. Such efforts could serve as a model for other cities aiming to create equal opportunities for all residents.