Manor College’s 17th Ukraine Dialogue took place on October 10, 2024.

Manor College’s Ukraine Dialogue returned for its 17th edition on October 10, 2024. Members of the six-person panel explored the topic, “Business and Industry Innovations Helping Ukraine’s Community.” 

“This was a very special program given its focus on economic development opportunities in Ukraine at this time,” Roman Petyk, of Ukrainian Selfreliance Federal Credit Union who sponsors the semi-annual event. “We focus so heavily on the war and the geopolitical issues that we sometimes forget the long-term importance of actually building a thriving and successful economy in Ukraine. 

The panelists, some of whom attended via Zoom from Ukraine, believe that business goes beyond helping the economy. 

“We want our members to go to Ukraine more than to do business, but to work for the community, Dr. Irina Paliashvili, CEO of the U.S.-Ukraine Business Council, said. “Some say rebuilding will happen years from now, but Ukraine is open for business.”

Misha Rudominski, Co-Founder of Promin Aerospace, operates a company building communication technology for Ukraine. He added, “It is good to know we are on the right side of history as we support Ukrainian business.” 

Bob Schena, CEO of Rajant, personally visited Ukraine and praised the work ethic and up-front attitude of Ukrainian engineers. 

“Ukrainian engineers operate by telling the truth,” Schena said. “You appreciate that kind of honesty in our line of work.” 

The panel spoke about the potential involvement of more companies and the stances leaders can or should take when working in Ukraine. Schena told a story about posting his Ukraine trip to Facebook. Soon after, his company received cyber attacks and threats. 

“It’s important to realize you are at risk,” Schena said. “I understand the complexities, but it does create a risk and you must assess the potential risks.”

The 17th Ukraine Dialogue took place both via Zoom and on Manor College’s campus. The panelists included: 

• Anatoli Murha, CEO of Ukrainian Selfreliance Federal Credit Union
• Bob Schena, CEO of Rajant
• Dr. Irina Paliashvili, CEO of the U.S.-Ukraine Business Council
• Alexander Gordin, Chair and Co-Founder of Rebuilding Ukraine Agency
• Misha Rudominski, Entrepreneur and Co-Founder of Himera. 

The event was moderated by Ambassador Roman Popaduiuk, an American diplomat and the first United States Ambassador to Ukraine under President George H.W. Bush. 

The Ukraine Dialogue was sponsored by Ukrainian Selfreliance Federal Credit Union. 

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