Nataliia Zviagintseva, Programme Manager, INKuLtur

What projects are you currently working on within the organization?
Barrier-Free Safety for People with Disabilities.
What motivates you to work in the social/public sector and in Austausch? Why is this work important to you personally?
I am motivated to work in the social and public sector because it allows me to contribute meaningfully to the well-being of others and address systemic challenges that impact communities. I am passionate about creating equitable opportunities and driving positive change, whether through improving access to resources, empowering underserved communities, or shaping policies that foster social justice. The ability to see the tangible impact of my efforts in our projects in Austausch e.V. and collaborate with like-minded individuals inspires me to continue working for the greater good.
What has been your most rewarding experience working with the Austaisch so far?
While working for Austausch e.V., I was part of a project aimed at improving access to culture for people with disabilities.
My responsibility was to design and implement an inclusive exhibition based on stories of people with disabilities from Ukraine and Germany.
I collaborated with disabled communities and stakeholders and researched with them along the themes of disability history, activism, solidarity and accessibility.
As a result, the exhibition was successfully presented five times in Ukraine and already six times in Germany. Getting positive feedback from the involved protagonists and public was incredibly rewarding.
What are the most significant projects you have been involved in throughout your career?
All projects among the INKuLtur Programme were significant for me. But the most significant project I have been involved in was “Barrier-Free Safety for People with Disabilities”. During this project we produced among other things video portraits with people with disabilities and parents of children with disabilities from Ukraine. These stories provide unprecedented insight into the unique barriers and difficulties faced by persons with disabilities during wartime and displacement.
What is your favorite book and why?
The Future Is Disabled: Prophecies, Love Notes and Mourning Songs by Leah Lakshmi Piepzna-Samarasinha. This book asks some provocative questions: What if, in the near future, the majority of people will be disabled—and what if that’s not a bad thing? I think it is important that everyone asks this question themself.
What’s your favorite place in Berlin|Germany? Is there a spot in the city/country that inspires or relaxes you?
I like the Berlin’s Museum Island for its wonderful architecture, statues, gardens and trees.
What type of music or song is your go-to when you need motivation or to relax?
Jazz.