Solutions from Ukraine: 12-year-old boy with cerebral palsy uses AI to build website for candle workshop to support UAF and family home dream
Children with disabilities and mobility challenges in Ukraine face compounding barriers to social integration and independence, worsened by ongoing infrastructure disruptions such as power outages and non-functional elevators in high-rise buildings.
Oleksii initially proposed starting the candle workshop to earn his own money and buy a dog. With the guidance of his mother, Iryna Shykarenko, the duo developed the project from scratch. Oleksii created the workshop's name, set up social media accounts, and used AI tools to design and launch their online website.
Iryna supported her son's initiative by purchasing wax and molds, while mastering candle-making techniques through online video tutorials.
"I wanted a dog, so we decided that we needed to earn money. We started making candles—aromatic, decorative, standard, and gift candles," Oleksii said.
The family produces various candle designs, including floral, animal, geometric, and container-based styles. They established a clear division of duties to ensure safety and efficiency:
"I melt the wax because hot water and gas are involved, making it unsafe for a child to handle directly. I also wax the wicks because that is physically difficult for him to do alone," Iryna explained.
The candle-making endeavor offers Oleksii an avenue for self-realization amid significant physical challenges. Due to a broken elevator in their nine-story apartment building, Oleksii has been unable to go outside for over two weeks.
Oleksii allocates his earnings toward a fund for a private house, which would allow him to step outside independently, while continuing to dream of adopting a large-breed dog. Despite his personal challenges, he actively supports Ukrainian service members by donating a portion of his income and assisting other children. Previously, he donated the funds he received for his birthday to pay for another child's surgery.
The Shykarenko family has been operating "Svitliachok" for approximately six months, producing dozens of handcrafted products for customers nationwide.
Background
The Zaporuka Charitable Foundation has launched the "HOSTYNNI" (HOSPITABLE) initiative, bringing together Ukrainian establishments to support families of children undergoing complex medical treatment through charitable menu items, special desserts, dinners, and regular donations.
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22 of October 2026
