For the second year in a row, the independent European Commission selects 10 Ukrainian women innovators who lead innovative businesses, contribute to the reconstruction of the country and stimulate the local economy. They are awarded the Red Kalyna Award, symbolizing their strength and resilience.
The EIT Red Kalyna Awards have been awarded to ten Ukrainian role models — innovators, leaders and entrepreneurs — who have demonstrated that building an innovation ecosystem is possible even in the most difficult conditions. Among the 10 women innovators is Dr. Oksana Sedashova, International Creativity Ambassador in Ukraine; Associate Professor at KROK Business School. Oksana trains innovative teams of Ukrainian and international businesses to effectively solve problems and create innovations using creative thinking technologies, inspiring the next generation of creative and entrepreneurial minds, contributing to the formation of a more dynamic and innovative workforce.
The ceremony, which took place in Budapest during the "Next Innovations for the Future of Europe" on November 28, 2024, was a testament to the resilience and resourcefulness of Ukrainian innovators, bringing together leaders from different sectors to honor individuals and organizations that are pushing the boundaries and causing change.
As Oksana Sedashova noted, "For me, this award is a symbol of Ukraine being perceived as a country with high innovation potential, allocating a special place for women. And this inspires me to continue to popularize the culture of creativity and innovation, which I do, fulfilling my social mission as an international ambassador for creativity in Ukraine."
The Red Kalyna Award highlights people and organizations that are redefining what it means to be an innovation leader. These awardees represent not only the best in Ukraine, but also a new generation of thinkers and activists whose work will leave a lasting mark on the world. The 2024 Red Kalyna Awards received significantly more responses than in 2023: twice as many applications were submitted as in the first competition, reflecting the growing popularity and value of the initiative, as well as the expansion of the community. The selection process was intense, with many inspiring stories and achievements heard. Choosing from such an impressive number of talents was an exciting and challenging task. KROK Business School is proud of Oksana Sedashova, her achievements and accomplishments, and sincerely wishes her continued success in her professional activities.

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