Twinning Initiative’s Virtual Internships Programme Wins International Impact Award

We are absolutely delighted that Cormack Consultancy Group and Virtual Internships won the Employability International Impact Award at The PIEoneer Awards 2026.

This award recognises the impact of the UK–Ukraine Virtual Internships initiative, developed under the UK–Ukraine Twinning Initiative to support Ukrainian students studying and planning their futures during a period of immense challenge and uncertainty.

In 2025, the pilot programme enabled Ukrainian students to gain international, project-based work experience with organisations across the UK, Europe, North America and beyond. Through placements spanning business, IT, marketing and the creative industries, students were able to develop practical skills and build global professional networks. More than an employability initiative, the programme created opportunities for students to engage directly with international workplaces, overcoming many of the mobility, visa and financial challenges they continue to face.

While we are incredibly proud to receive this recognition, this achievement belongs to a much wider community. Our sincere thanks go to our partners at Virtual Internships for their vision, expertise, and commitment throughout the project. The universities and institutional partners who championed opportunities for their students. The employers and mentors who generously gave their time, guidance and support. Our CCG colleagues who worked on helping bring the programme to life. And most importantly, the Ukrainian students whose resilience, ambition and determination continue to inspire us.