Since February, Natalia Etten has taken on the leadership role in the organization and will continue our mission — to develop the next generation of leaders through education for the restoration and sustainable development of Ukraine. We must ensure quality education for children regardless of the challenges the country faces.
“For me, as the head of Teach For Ukraine NGO, who had the honor of relaunching the organization in October 2020, it was extremely important that the person replacing me in this role be a highly professional individual. Natalia Etten is exactly that person. Her professionalism, leadership skills, and deep understanding of our mission make her the ideal candidate to lead Teach For Ukraine NGO,” shares Oksana Matiyash, Chairperson of the Board.
Natalia is convinced that quality education is the foundation of Ukraine’s sustainable development. She decided to return to Ukraine from the United States to contribute to educational change at a crucial moment for the country.
“In this pivotal time for Ukraine, education is our powerful strength,” says Natalia Etten. “My task is to amplify the impact of Teach For Ukraine NGO so that quality education becomes not only the foundation for the country’s recovery but also a guarantee of future victory. At the same time, we must help overcome learning losses, support teachers, and provide children with equal access to opportunities that open doors to a successful future. I strive to build leadership among Ukrainian youth, shaping a generation of professionals who will become a driving force for the country’s development both in the near future and in the long term.”
Natalia Etten was born in Kerch, eastern Crimea. She spent over 12 years living in the United States, where she earned her education and built a career in international education and leadership. Before joining Teach For Ukraine NGO, Natalia worked at the Atlantic Council in Washington, D.C. — one of the world’s most influential think tanks — where she developed international leadership programs for government and organizational leaders from around the globe.
