Talents for Ukraine by KSE Foundation builds a community of professionals who shape the development of science, culture, and medicine in Ukraine. The grant program supports talented Ukrainians whose work delivers practical outcomes and long-term value for the country. The new Talents for Ukraine cohort includes a scientist, a filmmaker, and a neurosurgeon.
Sviatoslav Polovkovych is a Doctor of Chemical Sciences and Professor at Lviv Polytechnic National University. He leads interdisciplinary research in the development of pharmaceuticals, biofuels, and environmental technologies. In his work, he integrates medical and organic chemistry, biotechnology, and chemical engineering with applied scientific challenges. Under his scientific mentorship and the guidance of their school teacher, schoolgirls from Skole developed thermal insulation polyurethanes for the International Space Station and won a national competition, earning the right to send a microlaboratory to the ISS.
“The best investments in my life are time and trust invested in people,” says Sviatoslav.
Vladlen Odudenko is a Ukrainian film director, screenwriter, and production designer. He has contributed to the creation of 24 feature films and more than 50 film projects, including The Tribe, Atlantis, Zakhar Berkut, The Guide, and Homeward. In 2021, Vladlen received the Taras Shevchenko National Prize of Ukraine for the film Atlantis. In his own directing and screenwriting work, he explores themes of war, family trauma, PTSD, and national identity.
“I am inspired by everything around me: simple and familiar things, people close to me, and places that are dear to my heart,” Vladlen emphasizes.
Vladyslav Kaliuzhka is a neurosurgeon and PhD in Medical Sciences. In his clinical practice, he treats complex pathologies of the central nervous system, works with neurotrauma, tumors, and vascular lesions of the brain and spinal cord, and performs more than 100 surgical procedures each year. Vladyslav founded Extra Vision, an augmented reality system for neurosurgeons that increases the accuracy and safety of surgical interventions.
“Comfort for me means clear goals, control over my time, a strong team nearby, and a sense of daily progress. And also—coziness and a reliable support system at home,” comments Vladyslav.
The third stage of the Talents For Ukraine grant program continues in 2026. You can submit your application via the link https://150.foundation.kse.ua/en
More about the Talents For Ukraine winners
