When the war in Ukraine began last year, Dariia Mykhailyshyna, a Ukrainian PhD student in Italy, felt a strong urge to contribute positively amidst the turmoil. She connected with fellow Ukrainians living abroad, focusing on disseminating crucial information and supporting various humanitarian aid initiatives. As she explored ways to channel her skills toward these efforts, Mykhailyshyna had the idea of organizing workshops on R programming to raise funds for Ukrainian organizations in need.
Initially, Mykhailyshyna envisioned hosting just a couple of workshops, reaching out to friends to participate as instructors. However, her initiative quickly gained traction, evolving into a comprehensive series of events that have significantly impacted both the educational and humanitarian landscapes. Over the past year, Workshops for Ukraine has successfully hosted 40 sessions, drawing more than a thousand participants and generating approximately $28,000 in funds for organizations dedicated to humanitarian and defense efforts in Ukraine.
The workshops have attracted around 20 volunteer experts from various fields, expanding beyond R to include topics such as Python, SQL, Stata, and the Quarto technical publishing platform. This diversity of subjects not only enhances the skills of attendees but also creates a vibrant learning community united in its commitment to supporting Ukraine during this challenging time. Each session offers a chance for participants to acquire valuable technical skills while contributing to a meaningful cause.
Upcoming this Thursday is a workshop titled “Working with ChatGPT in R,” scheduled for noon EST, 9 AM PST, and 6 PM CET. Interested individuals can register with a minimum donation of $20, €20, or 800 UAH, with the option to contribute more or sponsor a student. Mykhailyshyna ensures that registration fees do not directly benefit her; instead, attendees are encouraged to donate to approved Ukrainian support organizations and provide proof of their contributions. This innovative approach not only fosters learning but also empowers participants to make a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by the ongoing crisis in Ukraine.