When I joined CEPOL, I expected communication in a law enforcement environment to be rigid and formal. Instead, I found a team that encouraged creativity, embraced new ideas, and invited me to take an active role in projects. From the start, I never felt like just a trainee. I felt that my perspective truly mattered.
How was your traineeship at the European Union Agency for Law Enforcement Training (CEPOL)?
From my very first day, my team made me feel welcomed and trusted me with meaningful responsibilities. Their support created an environment where I felt comfortable learning, asking questions, and taking on new challenges. Every member of the Communications team brought unique expertise, allowing me to learn from each colleague, whether in strategic communication, social media, editorial work, merchandise management, or corporate messaging.
What I appreciated most was that my ideas were not only welcomed but actively encouraged. I was given the freedom to take initiative and contribute, which boosted my confidence and opened my mind to new opportunities.
Beyond my team, learning at CEPOL was a daily experience. I had the chance to participate in courses, explore the Law Enforcement Education platform (LEEd), and develop skills through hands-on tasks—such as promoting webinars, supporting onsite activities, and preparing reports. One of my favourite experiences was interviewing colleagues from different departments for our campaigns. This gave me firsthand insight into CEPOL’s diverse work, deepened my understanding of security and law enforcement topics, and allowed me to learn directly from their expertise.
As a Ukrainian trainee, what makes CEPOL’s mission and work environment uniquely meaningful to you?
As a Ukrainian youth activist, I have spent years working with young people to promote European and democratic values. Through this work, I’ve seen how strong institutions, cooperation, and trust are essential for building a resilient society. That’s why CEPOL’s mission resonated with me immediately. It embodies the very principles I advocate for.
Being part of CEPOL gave me an inside perspective on European cooperation within an EU agency. As a Ukrainian, I understand that security cannot be achieved by any country acting alone. CEPOL’s approach, which is rooted in shared responsibility, knowledge-sharing, and partnerships, deeply aligns with my beliefs, especially now, as Ukraine faces Russia’s military aggression and relies on international solidarity.
What made my experience at CEPOL truly special was the opportunity to contribute to a mission larger than my daily tasks. I felt that my skills and perspective, shaped by my background, could support CEPOL’s efforts to strengthen security across Europe and beyond. My traineeship also showed me how CEPOL fosters an inclusive environment, where diverse backgrounds and perspectives are not just tolerated but valued. This culture of openness, learning, and exchange made me feel both empowered and inspired.
How did your experience at CEPOL challenge your expectations and help you grow professionally?
When I joined CEPOL, I expected communication in a law enforcement environment to be rigid and formal. Instead, I found a team that encouraged creativity, embraced new ideas, and invited me to take an active role in projects. From the start, I never felt like just a trainee. I felt that my perspective truly mattered.
One project that had a profound impact on my professional growth was contributing to the development of CEPOL’s new intranet. I joined the team from the early stages, collaborating with colleagues to gather feedback, discuss improvements, and share my own ideas. This experience allowed me to understand how communication projects can support an organisation’s daily operations. Most importantly, it showed me that CEPOL creates an environment where trainees are empowered to grow, contribute, and bring their own vision to life.
What’s one of your proudest moments from your traineeship at CEPOL?
One of the highlights of my traineeship was organising a networking event for trainees from European institutions based in Budapest. I developed the concept myself, and from the moment I shared the idea with my colleagues, they rallied behind me, offering advice, trusting me to lead, and actively contributing to the programme. Colleagues volunteered to deliver presentations, welcomed trainees to CEPOL’s headquarters, shared their expertise, and helped with the practical organisation. Their unwavering support not only brought my idea to life but also showcased CEPOL’s collaborative and welcoming culture. It was a remarkable example of how the agency invests in its people, and it left me with a lasting sense of pride and gratitude.