Integrated expert operations

Yuliya Bavolyak supports the partnership between Potsdam and Ivano-Frankivsk in developing a modern, integrated urban development concept that brings together the themes of architectural and remembrance culture and, where appropriate, mobility. The work focuses on building an inclusive expert network, developing strategic foundations, and initiating initial urban development projects. Her tasks include analysing relevant stakeholders, organising dialogue formats, and mobilising local and international expertise, including from Potsdam and Opole (Poland). She also supports the city administration in drafting the concept and identifying priority measures.

Through close cooperation with existing city partnerships and the D4UC network – an international peer-learning format that promotes exchange between cities to strengthen integrated, community-oriented urban development – the assignment contributes to advancing urban development in Ivano-Frankivsk and strengthening trilateral cooperation between German, Ukrainian, and Polish partner cities in the fields of architectural and remembrance culture.

The project in which Anja Nelle works as a development advisor focuses on improving living conditions and social cohesion in Zanzibar City through climate-adapted urban planning and effective services. Key tasks include establishing map-based analyses for urban development challenges, integrating landscape planning into decision-making processes for climate adaptation, and fostering collaboration with civil society and government institutions. Anja Nelle strengthens the cooperation between ZUMC and Potsdam, particularly in the areas of open space planning, landscape architecture, and urban greening. The project places special emphasis on sustainability, transparency, and the inclusion of disadvantaged groups. Regular evaluations and an annual reflection meeting with all partners ensure the achievement of goals and the adaptation of measures.

Kateryna Rudchenko is a project and event manager and has been supporting the municipal partnership between Teltow and Khotyn since January 2025. Her role is to expand existing partnership initiatives and to acquire and implement new projects that contribute to the sustainable development of Khotyn and the European integration of Ukraine. Key focus areas include the integration of internally displaced persons, a secure energy supply, and strengthening the local economy. To ensure that knowledge of successful project management remains within the municipality, Kateryna Rudchenko also promotes the training of municipal employees. She studied International Economic Relations and has extensive experience in project management and economic development. In addition, her language skills in English, Italian, and Spanish are valuable assets in bringing Khotyn one step closer to the European Union.