Creating an accessible environment for all guests – including people with disabilities and those with limited mobility – is a key component of Bukovel’s Green Destinations certification. This commitment extends beyond barrier-free infrastructure to include inclusive programs, staff training, and thoughtful practices that ensure every guest feels welcome.
To strengthen these efforts, the Bukovel Sustainable Development Office has expanded its team. We are delighted to welcome Mykhailo Nalyvaiko, a veteran of the Russian-Ukrainian war, who joins as Coordinator for Inclusivity and Veterans Policy.
"Mykhailo’s personal experience, his deep understanding of the challenges faced by veterans and people with disabilities, and his genuine motivation to make a difference are invaluable to our team. His work represents more than a staffing decision – it is a commitment to creating an open, welcoming, and fully accessible resort for everyone," says Bohdan Krasavtsev, Head of the Bukovel Sustainable Development Office.
Since joining, Mykhailo has already conducted a hands-on accessibility audit across the resort, personally navigating routes in a wheelchair to assess convenience for people with limited mobility. He examined the fairgrounds, market, central square, parking areas, promenade, and numerous restaurants and hotels.
At Bukovel, sustainable development goes hand in hand with people-centric values: social equity, equal opportunity, veteran support, and inclusive access for every visitor.
"There is still much work ahead: facility audits, implementing new solutions, staff training, and further development of veterans’ policies. I am proud to contribute to the team of Eastern Europe’s largest all-season resort," shares Mykhailo Nalyvaiko.
Bukovel takes pride in collaborating with dedicated professionals like Mykhailo to shape a modern, responsible resort with exceptional service.
Earlier, we introduced the first steps of the "Inclusive Bukovel" program, including:
- Inclusive access to the Lake of Youth beach;
- First barrier-free pedestrian crossings and parking spaces for guests with disabilities;
- Free adaptive bike rentals.
Through these initiatives, Bukovel continues to set a high standard for accessibility and inclusivity in tourism.
Mykhailo Nalyvaiko: "A tremendous number of people in Ukraine rely on wheelchairs"
— Mykhailo, welcome! Tell us, how were your first days in the role of Coordinator for Inclusivity and Veteran Policy?
— Thank you! I’m enjoying it. There’s a lot of work ahead. And honestly, after my injury, I quickly understood how essential inclusivity and veteran policy truly are.
— Are there many people in Ukraine who face accessibility challenges – lack of access to cafes, shops, attractions?
— Far more than most people imagine. Even without considering the war, we have many individuals who, after injuries, develop spinal issues and use wheelchairs. And the war multiplies those numbers dramatically – tenfold, at least. In almost every city you see the same picture: very few ramps, and those that do exist are usually too steep to climb independently. And the higher the level of injury, the more limited a person’s strength.
— After three days of inspection, how would you rate Bukovel’s accessibility today – on a scale of 1 to 10?
— Honestly.. I would give it a "five". There are many areas that need improvement. Even with my physical conditioning, visiting Bukovel alone would still be extremely difficult. And when I say 5, I’m not taking mountainous terrain into account – the landscape is something we can’t change. What I am evaluating are things like surface transitions, access to venues, shops, hotel rooms, and restrooms.
— What about car park #2?
— If I parked there, I wouldn’t be able to enter or exit on my own. I would need assistance 100%.
— I know you’re planning to conduct training for resort staff on how to assist wheelchair users?
— Yes. And such training is essential, because proper assistance has its nuances. There are many factors staff should understand to help safely and effectively, without unintentionally causing harm.
— Do you think these inspections we’re conducting in Bukovel can help us improve to "seven" or "eight" in accessibility by summer 2026?
— I believe so. Our work doesn’t end with the inspection. Afterward, the entire process will remain under constant supervision – from planning and installation to maintenance of ramps and accessibility systems. And then there’s the human factor: ensuring staff follow procedures correctly. We also need oversight of the contractor and the general contractor’s management. When you break it down, there’s a lot of work. But we’ll get it done.
— Is it true you want to join the national rowing team?
— I’ve always been interested – I just never had the chance to start. After my injury, I met a rowing coach. I’m still learning, but it’s exciting and rewarding. There’s a possibility of joining the national team. I hope it works out and that I can balance sport with work. Right now it’s hard to predict, but I have pretty ambitious goals.
— One last thing: would you like to row on the Lake of Youth next summer?
— If everything goes according to plan – absolutely. As one doctor told me, "If you want to get back on your feet, you must stay active." Rehabilitation is not only about exercises – it’s about life, movement, and staying engaged.
Having suggestions to improve inclusivity at the resort?
Send them to: bohdan.krasavtsev@bukovel.com