BUDDY PROGRAMME · FOR UKRAINIANS
Find a friend. Feel at home.
Moving to a new country is about more than logistics. It is about connection. The Buddy Programme pairs Ukrainians with a volunteer buddy who helps them feel welcome and less alone.
Two ways to connect.
The programme has two ways to connect: online from anywhere, or in person in Norwegian cities.
Online · Global
Online buddies, wherever you live.
Matches for regular video calls, conversation, and emotional support, no matter where you live.
- A friendly face to talk to during uncertain times.
- Share interests, daily life, and stories.
In person · Norway
In-person buddies in Norwegian cities.
Matches with locals for coffee, walks, and exploring the neighbourhood in Norwegian cities.
- Coffee, walks, and understanding the culture.
- Group events and community gatherings in your city.
Oslo · Bergen · Stavanger · Trondheim · Kristiansand · Drammen
Not a caseworker.
Not a teacher.
Not a service.
A friend.
The Buddy Programme is about mutual connection. Your buddy is a volunteer who wants to welcome you, not a professional caseworker or teacher.
What a buddy is
- A friendly face to talk to
- Someone to share experiences with
- A guide to local culture and life
- A supportive listener
What a buddy is not
- A professional therapist or counselor
- A formal language teacher
- A financial or legal advisor
- A 24/7 on-call assistant
Friendship works in both directions. Share your story, your culture, and your interests too.
HOW IT WORKS
Simple steps to connect.
Here is how a match is made.
Sign up
Match
Introduction
Connection
You sign up
Tell us about yourself, your interests, and what you need.
We match you
We look for a volunteer who fits your preferences and location.
Introduction
We introduce you by email so you can say hello.
Connection
Meet for coffee, video call, or join an event. It is up to you.
Group events.
Beyond one-on-one connections, the programme brings people together in groups.
Nature & outdoors
Hiking, forest walks, and seasonal activities like berry picking or skiing.
Culture & traditions
Norwegian and Ukrainian holidays, cooking classes, and local festivals.
Social gatherings
Casual coffee meetups, community dinners, and family-friendly activities.
Online community
Virtual meetups and webinars open to everyone, regardless of location.
REAL CONNECTIONS
When I arrived in Bergen, everything was new. My buddy helped me find the best grocery stores and we walk in the mountains every Sunday. It feels like I have a friend here.
I live in a small town where there are not many Ukrainians. My online buddy calls me every week. We talk about books and life. It helps me feel less lonely.
Where you go from here.
Programme status
Paused.
The programme is currently paused and is not accepting new participants or volunteers.
Practise a language
TEEI Language.
Weekly conversation practice with a volunteer, on our own platform.
About the programme →Grow your career
TEEI Mentorship.
Career mentoring with an experienced professional in your field.
About the programme →BUDDY PROGRAMME
You do not have to do this alone.
The Buddy Programme is currently paused.