Tetyana Oleynikova of uBoost: 5 Things You Need To Know To Successfully Lead A Nonprofit Organization
Collaboration is key: Partnering with other organizations amplifies your impact and reduces duplication of efforts, helping you achieve your goals more effectively.
As part of my series about “individuals and organizations making an important social impact,” I had the pleasure of interviewing Tetyana Oleynikova.
Tetyana Oleynikova is the co-founder of the NGO uBoost, which brings together successful young adults who share their knowledge with teenagers from small communities, preparing them for careers or entrepreneurial endeavors in Ukraine. With over seven years of experience in the IT sector, she has worked with a U.S.-based startup and previously served as the Head of Customer Success at Allset, a company acquired by SoundHound AI.
Thank you so much for doing this with us. Before we begin, our readers would love to learn more about you. Can you share a bit about your backstory?
I’m from Kostiantynivka, a small town in Donetsk Oblast, Ukraine. Growing up, opportunities were limited, but a leadership program I joined in eighth grade changed everything. It taught me essential skills like project management and introduced me to a supportive community, which gave me the confidence to dream big. After school, I earned a degree from Donetsk National University, which later had to relocate due to the 2014 war. My path then took me to the U.S., where I worked my way up from odd jobs to becoming Head of Restaurant Success at Allset, a U.S. startup with Ukrainian roots. I grew the team from 1 to 20+ members, enhancing processes and technology to serve over 10,000 customers. Five years ago, I moved back to Ukraine. When the company I was working for was sold earlier this year, I decided to use my skills to create new opportunities for the next generation — especially youth in frontline and rural communities.
Can you tell us the story behind why you decided to start or join your nonprofit?
The idea for uBoost came from my own experience growing up in a small town with limited opportunities. I realized how much of an impact one educational program had on my life, and I wanted to replicate that for others. When Allset was acquired in early 2024, I saw my chance to make a difference. I turned down a lucrative job offer to invest my experience in uBoost, a nonprofit that empowers teenagers from underserved communities with entrepreneurial skills and digital tools. My goal is to bridge the gap between ambition and access, giving young people the tools they need to create their own futures.
Can you describe how you or your organization aims to make a significant social impact?
uBoost addresses educational inequality in Ukraine, where the gap in opportunities between children from small villages and larger cities has grown to five years, compared to three years before the full-scale war. We work with teenagers aged 13–18 from frontline and rural areas, helping them discover career opportunities and prepare for their first steps into a job or entrepreneurship. We connect them with young adults who’ve already found success, so they can learn directly from real-life examples. Through video lessons, practical tasks, and live mentorship, we teach them the skills and confidence to explore their options and even start earning their first income. It’s all about giving these teens the chance to build a future they can be proud of. By fostering ambition and providing opportunities, uBoost makes a tangible social impact by shaping a generation of future leaders and change-makers.
Without saying any names, can you share a story about an individual who was helped by your idea so far?
One of our participants, a 16-year-old girl, started a small manicure business during our program. With the guidance she received, she developed a business plan, marketed her services online, and earned enough to buy a new phone. Another group of teenagers created a course called Teens in Politics to promote political literacy among their peers. These stories show that even small steps can lead to significant change when young people are empowered.
Are there three things the community/society/politicians can do to help you address the root of the problem you are trying to solve?
Create internships and entry-level opportunities: Local businesses can play a key role by offering practical experiences that give young people a path to sustainable careers.
Invest in local education initiatives: Governments and businesses should prioritize funding programs that provide practical skills and mentorship for teenagers in underserved areas.
Support digital infrastructure: Reliable internet access and affordable technology are essential for rural and frontline youth to access modern educational tools.
How do you define “Leadership”? Can you explain what you mean or give an example?
Leadership is the ability to inspire and empower others to act toward a shared goal. To me, it’s about listening, understanding needs, and creating opportunities for growth. When we founded uBoost, I didn’t have all the answers, but I knew I had to bring people together — youth, mentors, businesses — to build something greater than myself. Leadership was stepping out of my comfort zone and committing to the vision, even when the path was uncertain.
Based on your experience, what are the “5 Things A Person Should Know Before They Decide To Start A Nonprofit”?
Think of your nonprofit as a startup: Viewing your nonprofit as a startup encourages creativity in problem-solving and helps you pivot quickly when strategies don’t work.
Plan for funding and sustainability: Nonprofits rely on funding to operate, and financial instability is a major challenge. It’s essential to have a plan for long-term financial sustainability.
Your partners and investors are also stakeholders: Building strong relationships with funders and collaborators is just as crucial as serving your primary audience, as they are integral to your nonprofit’s success.
Collaboration is key: Partnering with other organizations amplifies your impact and reduces duplication of efforts, helping you achieve your goals more effectively.
Marketing matters: Even the best initiatives need visibility. Effective marketing helps attract support and inspires others to join your mission.
We are very blessed that very prominent leaders read this column. Is there a person in the world who you would like to talk to, to share the idea behind your nonprofit?
I would love to speak with Malala Yousafzai. Her work in advocating for education aligns closely with uBoost’s mission, and I believe her perspective could bring incredible insights to our efforts in Ukraine.
Can you share your favorite “Life Lesson” Quote? How is that relevant to you in your life?
“Do what you can, with what you have, where you are.” — Theodore Roosevelt. This quote resonates with me because it reflects the heart of uBoost. We’re helping teenagers from small towns and frontline areas realize their potential by leveraging their unique circumstances and strengths.
How can our readers follow you online?
You can follow me on:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanya-oleynikova-607165144/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100008424151002
This was very meaningful, thank you so much. We wish you only continued success in your great work!
Tetyana Oleynikova of uBoost: 5 Things You Need To Know To Successfully Lead A Nonprofit… was originally published in Authority Magazine on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.