Metinvest opened the doors of its facilities in Verona and Genoa to a group of students from MBA Kids International, a prestigious Ukrainian educational institution dedicated to developing the next generation of entrepreneurs and leaders. The initiative provided a valuable opportunity for young talents from Ukraine to engage directly with the industrial world, reflecting a country that looks to the future by investing in education as a driving force for economic and social reconstruction.
MBA Kids International promotes an educational pathway designed to develop entrepreneurial skills, leadership capabilities, and an innovative mindset among young people. In a context shaped by the challenges of recent years, the school aims to prepare young women and men to contribute actively to the revival of the Ukrainian economy. For this reason, 15 students were carefully selected to participate in this international experience, which was designed to provide direct exposure to leading European industrial companies.
The visit began in Verona, at the Ferriera Valsider plant, where the students were welcomed for an introductory session and an opportunity to get acquainted with the organization. The meeting allowed the students to learn about the history, role, and operations of the plant, introducing them to one of the Group’s key industrial sites.
Before entering the production areas, participants received comprehensive safety training, an essential element of any industrial environment. The plant tour was then led by Massimo Fonda, Plant Director of Ferriera Valsider SpA, together with Alessandro Sacco and Oleksii Malytsia, Production Process Specialists at Ferriera Valsider SpA. During the visit, the students had the opportunity to observe the production processes firsthand and gain insight into the complex work involved in steel manufacturing.
Particularly engaging was the opportunity to see the production lines, the furnace, and the various activities carried out daily by plant operators. This hands-on experience enabled the students to gain direct exposure to the manufacturing sector and appreciate the importance of technical expertise, organization, and teamwork.
In the afternoon, following a shared lunch, the program continued with a series of interactive activities and work games led by Agnese Sommariva, HR Transformation Manager, People & Culture, designed to foster collaboration, problem-solving skills and entrepreneurial thinking. Through practical exercises and group dynamics, the students had the opportunity to test and develop their interpersonal and leadership skills within an international and multicultural environment.
The following day, the delegation travelled to Genoa, where the students were welcomed at the Metinvest Trametal offices by Roberto Re, Chief Executive Officer of Metinvest Trametal SpA and Ferriera Valsider SpA. who extended a warm welcome to the students and emphasized the importance of nurturing their curiosity, combined with the courage to challenge themselves and learn from mistakes, to build a successful path of professional and personal growth.
The visit continued with presentations by the following Ukrainian managers of the Metinvest Group:
▪️ Stanislav Tyron, Member of the Board of Directors, Metinvest Group
▪️ Yuriy Utenkov, Chief Executive Officer of Metinvest International Italia Srl
▪️ Tetiana Grynchak, Chief Financial Officer of Metinvest Trametal SpA and Ferriera Valsider SpA
▪️ Lev Solovyov, Head of Marketing
▪️ Viktoriya Vasylenko, Head of Strategic Raw Materials Purchasing
▪️ Dana Krivenko, Strategic planning and controlling manager
Our colleagues shared their personal and professional experiences with the students. Through authentic stories of growth, challenges, and achievements, the participants gained valuable insights into international career paths and engaged with professionals who embody determination, expertise, and resilience.
Commenting on the experience and its significance for the younger generation, Iryna KONSTANTYNIVSKA, HR Director of Metinvest Trametal SpA and Ferriera Valsider SpA, stated:
“Meeting these young talents was a powerful reminder of the strength and potential of Ukraine’s future generation. At Metinvest, we are proud to contribute to initiatives that connect education with the business world and help young people broaden their horizons through international experiences. We believe that knowledge, resilience, and global perspectives will play a vital role in shaping the leaders who will drive Ukraine’s reconstruction and future development.”
The meeting between Metinvest and MBA Kids International proved to be much more than a simple company visit. It became a meaningful occasion for cultural and professional exchange, offering participants a concrete understanding of the world of work and industry.
More broadly, this initiative is part of Metinvest’s ongoing commitment to supporting and empowering Ukrainian youth through educational, cultural, and professional development opportunities.
Alongside this project, the Group continues to invest in the future generation through programs such as Steel Force, the international internship initiative designed for Ukrainian students and recent graduates studying at universities in Italy, the United Kingdom, Poland, Bulgaria, and Romania.
