Success Story: Ukrainian Family Thrives in Norway’s Narvik
In the heart of Narvik, Northern Norway, lives a family who, like many others, has fled the atrocities of the war in Ukraine. Vladyslav Yakovliev, a highly educated atomkraft-teknikk engineer from Enerhodar, now calls Norway home, along with his wife Anna and their young son.
"We had everything. Suddenly, our lives were turned upside down," Vladyslav recalls, describing the day Russia invaded their hometown. With banks closed, no mobile network, electricity, or cash, securing basic necessities like food and medicine became a daily challenge.
The family managed to escape, traversing 9,000 kilometers across Europe before finding refuge in Stavanger, later moving to Narvik. Vladyslav’s dream was to start working as soon as possible in his new homeland. That dream became a reality, thanks to an innovative program called "Gullbillett."
Gullbillett: A Golden Ticket to Employment
Gullbillett is a collaborative effort between Narvik kommune and Nav (Norway’s public employment service). The program covers 60% of an employee’s salary for six months, with a dedicated mentor supporting them on the job. After two years, 69% of Gullbillett recipients have secured permanent jobs.
In Vladyslav’s case, his first position was as a kontormedarbeider (administrative assistant) at Ofoten brann og redning IKS. However, his superiors quickly recognized his potential and advanced knowledge, leading to a apprenticeship in the fire prevention division, with a clear pathway to earning his qualification.
"I Feel Like Life Has mocked Me"
Though Vladyslav now thrives in his new role, he often looks back on the life he left behind. "I feel like life has mocked me," he says, seated at his office desk. "I had a home, a job, a family, friends. But that’s all gone. It’s like everything around me is spinning out of control."
Despite his struggles, Vladyslav remains hopeful about his future in Narvik. Since their arrival, they’ve welcomed a newborn, made friends, and secured jobs. "We’ve got a place to live, friends, work, and a baby. I want to stay here," he assures.
Success in Narvik, a Bright Spot in National Statistics
Vladyslav’s experience contrasts sharply with national statistics. Only 27% of Ukrainian refugees of working age in Norway are employed, with 3 out of 4 Ukrainian refugees languishing unemployed.
Even so, Narvik’s success has not gone unnoticed. In 2025, IMDi (the Norwegian Integration and Diversity Directive) aims to settle 18,900 more Ukrainian refugees in Norway, with a particular focus on accommodating more unaccompanied minors than in previous years.
Halwan Ibrahim, an IMDi assistant director, praises communites like Narvik, acknowledging the substantial efforts they’ve made to provide sanctuary to Ukrainian refugees. "It’s positive to see people like Vladyslav Yakovliev have learned the language, secured permanent apprenticeships, and integrated well into the local community," Ibrahim says.
As the war in Ukraine grinds on, stories of resilience and adaptation like Vladyslav’s serve as beacons of hope, proving that, even in the darkest of times, a new beginning is possible.
Last Updated: December 25, 2024
