Kristina Hnieusheva, ARZINGER: “We embody women’s initiatives today so that tomorrow they become the norm, not the exception”

The ARZINGER Women’s Club team. Photo: courtesy of ARZINGER 

At the ARZINGER law firm, women do not have to prove their competence because they already hold key positions and create a space where other women can grow, recover from challenges, and find support.

ARZINGER is one of Ukraine’s leading law firms. For over 20 years, it has not only protected clients’ interests and solved complex legal cases but also demonstrated how strategic support for women transforms a company from within.

In June 2021, ARZINGER became a signatory to the Women’s Empowerment Principles (WEPs). It was a natural step for a firm that was already systematically supporting equal opportunities and the professional growth of women. After the Russian full-scale invasion of Ukraine began, ARZINGER not only preserved its business operations but also adapted its internal policies to the new reality. The company began supporting mothers, displaced women, volunteers, and women returning to the profession after forced career breaks. This became part of a major transformation—one that ultimately strengthened the firm.

“Flexibility, empathy, and support are not just nice words. They’re a strategy that helps retain the team during times of crisis,” says Kristina Hnieusheva, PR and CSR Manager at ARZINGER. Photo: courtesy of ARZINGER 

One of the company’s most impactful initiatives is the ARZINGER Women’s Club — an internal women’s community that unites over 150 women from the business sphere. The Club was created for networking, mentorship, psychological support, and the development of women’s leadership. However, after the start of the full-scale invasion, the Club’s focus expanded to include charity work. For instance, during one of the meetings, members raised UAH 61,000 to fund a psychological rehabilitation program for women veterans. ARZINGER also donated over UAH 500,000 to the "Sylni" (Strong) Charitable Foundation, supporting women who survived conflict-related sexual violence (CRSV).

The company is systematically working to help women balance professional life with personal circumstances, including motherhood, volunteering, or temporary career breaks. ARZINGER has introduced flexible work schedules and remote work options from abroad. Those who relocated received help with employment in international firms and later support in returning to Ukraine.

Employees are provided with medical insurance, which covers breast cancer treatment which is one of the most common forms of cancer among women. According to WHO, 1 in 8 women will face this diagnosis in her lifetime. That’s why ARZINGER’s health insurance includes regular screening exams such as breast ultrasounds and preventive doctor consultations, even in the absence of symptoms. In complex situations, the company is always ready to provide additional support.

The firm also takes care of the team’s mental health. ARZINGER offers psychological support programs, involving outsourced professionals so each employee can choose the therapist that best suits them and work in a convenient format.

ARZINGER’s office was redesigned to meet wartime needs. It’s an autonomous space with heat, internet, and electricity for working during blackouts, ensuring both safety and comfort. Yoga sessions are also held in the office to support mental well-being.

“We have learned that even during crisis periods, it is crucial not to scale back inclusive practices. On the contrary — these practices help preserve a sense of support, trust, and mutual care within the community. Creating such spaces is part of building the future culture. And we’re doing it today,” adds Kristina Hnieusheva.

Thanks to its consistent support of women and implementation of the WEPs, ARZINGER has achieved:

• A gender-balanced team: 56.47% women across the company, 45.45% women among partners.
• Equal pay regardless of gender, personal circumstances, or location.
• A high level of engagement of women in corporate and social life, even during wartime.
• A stronger reputation as an employer who responsibly addresses the needs of women.

“Investing in women’s communities does not just create social and psychological support. It fosters healthier, more open, and more resilient professional environments. These initiatives promote new horizontal connections, strengthen women’s leadership, and reduce toxicity in business communication,” explains Kristina Hnieusheva on the motivation behind their empowerment programs.

What’s next for the company? The team is confident: only growth and more women-focused initiatives. ARZINGER plans to expand the Women’s Club, host a series of training on women’s leadership and mental health, and launch charitable joint initiatives with veteran communities.

“Women are a driving force for change. We embody these initiatives today so that tomorrow they become the norm, not the exception,” concludes Kristina Hnieusheva.

This article is prepared as part of the initiative "Empowering Women in Business" within the UN Women’s project “Transformative approaches to achieving gender equality in Ukraine,” with financial support from Sweden and in cooperation with the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister for European and Euro-Atlantic Integration.