Maryna Humeniuk

Job Title:
Computer Science, Teacher
Company - Organization:
Vashkivtsi General Secondary School
Experience:
17 Years
Education:
Master's degree
Universty - College:
Yuriy Fedkovych Chernivtsi National University
Nationality:
Ukrainian

Your organization field and mission:

Our organization is a general secondary school providing education for students in Grades 1–11. Our mission is to deliver high-quality, inclusive education, develop students’ digital and critical thinking skills, promote innovation and lifelong learning, and prepare young people to become responsible, active citizens.

Please tell us briefly about your role in the company / at your organization:

I work as a teacher of mathematics and computer science at a secondary school. Beyond my teaching duties, I strive to support the holistic development of my students by engaging them in various activities, competitions, and school events. I founded a school film club where we watch and discuss documentary films on human rights topics. I also serve as an EU Code Week Ambassador in Ukraine and as a regional coordinator of an international competition. In addition, I continue my own professional development by studying media literacy and emotional intelligence.

Your interest in STEM

My interest in STEM began in my school years. Since childhood, I dreamed of becoming a teacher, inspired by my mother, who is also a teacher and has always been a strong role model for me. I chose computer science as my field thanks to my own informatics teacher — a woman of great experience who stayed up to date with the latest computer technologies and digital innovations. Her example showed me how inspiring and forward-thinking this profession can be.

My first role model was my mother, who is also a teacher. Her dedication, kindness, and belief in the power of education deeply influenced me. Another important role model was my school computer science teacher, whose enthusiasm for technology and continuous learning inspired me to follow this path. Today, I am motivated by educators and women innovators who make education more inclusive and creative — and, most of all, by my students, whose curiosity and energy constantly inspire me to keep learning and growing. 

Your studies

My first role model was my mother, who is also a teacher. Her dedication, kindness, and belief in the power of education deeply influenced me. Another important role model was my school computer science teacher, whose enthusiasm for technology and continuous learning inspired me to follow this path. Today, I am motivated by educators and women innovators who make education more inclusive and creative — and, most of all, by my students, whose curiosity and energy constantly inspire me to keep learning and growing.

My advice is to stay curious, persistent, and confident in your abilities. Don’t be afraid to explore new technologies, take on challenges, and learn continuously — the field is constantly evolving, and staying engaged is key. Seek out mentors and supportive communities, participate in competitions and projects, and remember that your unique perspective is valuable. Most importantly, believe in yourself and let your passion guide you.

You at work

Our school is committed to promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability in education. We create an inclusive learning environment where every student, regardless of background, feels valued and supported. Through various projects and activities, students learn about social responsibility, human rights, and environmental awareness. We encourage participation in international competitions, community initiatives, and extracurricular programs that foster collaboration, empathy, and respect for different perspectives. Sustainability is integrated into our school practices, from energy-saving measures to raising awareness about responsible digital and environmental habits.

I am most proud of seeing my students succeed and grow beyond the classroom. It is incredibly rewarding to meet former students at various educational and public events where they are invited as speakers or leaders, showcasing their achievements. I also strive to create engaging learning experiences through projects, competitions, and initiatives like the school film club, helping students develop confidence, curiosity, and a love of learning. 

Your point of view

Technology can empower women by providing access to knowledge, skills, and opportunities that were previously limited. It enables women to learn, create, and innovate independently, connect with supportive communities, and participate fully in education, the workforce, and entrepreneurship. Technology also allows women to amplify their voices, share their perspectives, and take leadership roles in traditionally underrepresented fields. Ultimately, it helps women build confidence, agency, and the tools to shape their own futures.

As a teacher of mathematics and computer science, my advice to girls and women who want to enter this field is to believe in their abilities and not be discouraged by stereotypes or a lack of representation. STEM requires curiosity, persistence, and continuous learning — not “perfection” from the very beginning.
Start with small practical projects, stay curious, and don’t be afraid to make mistakes — they are an essential part of growth. It is also important to find mentors and supportive communities that can encourage you along the way.
Most importantly, remember that your perspective is valuable, and you absolutely belong in this field.

By 2030, I would like to see education fully embrace diversity, equity, inclusion, and sustainability. Every student, regardless of background, should have equal access to high-quality learning opportunities and feel valued and supported. I hope technology and innovative teaching methods are used to make learning more inclusive, interactive, and sustainable. Additionally, I would love to see a strong culture of mentorship and collaboration, where educators and students alike can thrive, share knowledge, and drive positive change in their communities.

To finish with

I value integrity, empathy, and lifelong learning. I believe in fostering curiosity, creativity, and resilience in myself and others. Inclusivity, respect for diversity, and a commitment to making a positive impact through education are also at the core of my values. 

One of my future challenges is to continuously adapt to the fast-evolving field of digital education and technology while maintaining engaging and meaningful learning experiences for my students. I aim to further develop my leadership and project management skills to create more impactful initiatives and collaborations. At the same time, it is very important for me to maintain enough time for my family and loved ones, balancing personal growth, professional responsibilities, and contributing to my community while staying resilient and innovative. 

By 2030, I hope my career will have evolved to include leadership roles in education and technology initiatives, allowing me to influence teaching practices and learning experiences on a broader scale. I aim to continue creating innovative projects that inspire students, foster creativity, and promote digital literacy. Additionally, I hope to mentor and support other educators, contribute to international collaborations, and maintain a healthy balance between my professional growth and family life. 

The current activity has been implemented in the framework of the Project: Code4Europe,
GA Number: 101158834. Official project website : 
https://codeweek.eu/