LocationsPath to a Profession| Julia: Finding Her Voice in Color and Light
September 11, 2026
When Yulia Kravtsova enrolled in college, she dreamed of turning her passion for drawing into a profession. Today, the student of the Mogilev State College of Economics and Industrial Technologies is a two-time gold medalist in prestigious skills competitions: she won gold at the International Abilympics Championship in Photography and at Belarus’ National ProfSkills competition in the Painting and Decorative Finishing category.
Behind these achievements are years of dedication, a passion for creativity, the support of mentors, and modern vocational education that helps young people unlock their potential through hands-on learning, develop in-demand skills, and confidently build their professional future. This approach is at the heart of the project “Development of Youth Innovation Potential for Accelerated Sustainable Development of Belarus”, implemented by UNDP and the Ministry of Education of the Republic of Belarus with financial support from the Russian Federation.
“I have always loved drawing”
Yulia’s passion for creativity began in school.
“I liked drawing. I wanted to become an artist,” she recalls.
Yulia found the college herself, and her work immediately caught the attention of teachers during the entrance examinations. They saw not only strong technical skills, but also a unique artistic perspective.
“Her way of shading was very lively and unusual. It was not just a drawing — even then, you could see her own artistic style emerging,” recalls Yulia’s teacher and mentor, Danuta Chekh-Astrashevskaya.
But talent was only the starting point. True mastery develops where there is a willingness to learn, continuous practice, and mentors who help every student discover and strengthen their abilities.
Yulia Kravtsova with her teachers, Mikhail Chekh and Danuta Chekh-Astrashevskaya.
A modern profession combines different skills
The beginning of her studies was not always easy.
“At first, everything felt unfamiliar. There were many new assignments — graphics, painting. I did not always understand what exactly was expected of me. But I decided to keep trying. Gradually, I became genuinely interested,” says Yulia.
Over time, her teachers noticed her ability to work with precision and follow a structured process.
“We developed a work algorithm together. Yulia carefully follows every stage and does not make mistakes,” says her mentor.
This combination of precision and creative thinking helped Yulia achieve outstanding results at the international championship in Moscow.
During the competition, experts were impressed by her performance.
“They came up to us and said: ‘Look, Belarus — without a single mistake.’ They could hardly believe that such work had been created by a student,” recalls Danuta Chekh-Astrashevskaya.
At first glance, photography and decorative finishing may seem like completely different fields. Yet this combination reflects the philosophy of modern vocational education.
Today, employers need professionals who can combine creative thinking, digital skills, attention to detail, communication with clients, and the ability to deliver projects. That is why the college prepares not only specialists in a narrow field, but versatile professionals with a broad set of competencies.
“Yulia can become an interior designer, a decorative artist, a photographer, or work on commercial projects. The broader the skill set, the more opportunities there are for professional growth,” says her teacher.
Learning through real projects
Practical training begins long before students receive their diplomas.
Students do not simply complete classroom assignments — they work on real projects whose results can be seen in the city, public institutions, and published works.
They create illustrations for books, design public spaces, paint murals in a regional children’s hospital, develop clothing collections, and create artistic projects.
Some of these projects become students’ first professional experiences — and even their first income.
“Our students illustrated a book that was later published. They received a real payment from the printing company for their work. For young people, it is very important to feel that their skills are valued and that their work is in demand,” says Danuta Chekh-Astrashevskaya.
This approach helps students understand the value of their skills while still studying and gives them greater confidence when entering the labour market.
A supportive learning environment where every student can thrive
Yulia studies in an inclusive group where young people with different educational needs learn together.
Yulia has lived with hearing impairment since childhood. Thanks to a cochlear implant, the support of her family and specialists, and years of hard work, she learned to hear, speak, and read lips. However, at college, this aspect of her life does not define her opportunities.
The focus is on each student’s abilities, interests, and professional development.
“We try to find an individual approach to everyone. It is important to identify a person’s strengths and help them develop,” says her teacher.
Such an educational environment allows young people to become full participants in their professional communities, unlock their potential, and build their own career paths.
The victory is only the beginning
Today, Yulia is preparing to enter university and hopes to continue working in her chosen field. Her mentors believe that one day she may return to the college as a vocational training instructor, continuing the tradition of successful graduates becoming mentors for the next generation.
But she is already inspiring others. Last summer, Yulia conducted a photography workshop for children with disabilities and their parents.
Asked what advice she would give to young people who doubt themselves, Yulia answers simply:
“You need to work hard and believe in yourself. And it is important to find people who will support you. I have a kind heart, so I am always ready to come over and help if I see that someone is struggling.”
Yulia’s two gold medals are a strong foundation for her future — a recognition that she has a real, in-demand profession in her hands and the skills to confidently build her career.
This is the formula for success demonstrated by Mogilev College: a student’s determination combined with systemic support, multidisciplinary practical training, and the encouragement of teachers. This approach helps prepare professionals who can succeed in a rapidly changing world, create new ideas, and contribute to Belarus’ sustainable development.