Welcome to STEM In Conflict
This project connects high school students who want to learn with high school students who want to help. We offer free, peer-to-peer tutoring for core subjects, study support, and live Zoom sessions.
Built and run by a student, this platform aims to make learning more accessible for teens—especially those in Ukraine and other conflict-affected regions.
About the Founder
Welcome! My name is Lydia Volynets, and I’m a high school student in Washington, D.C. I’m passionate about STEM education, global equity, and supporting Ukrainian youth, as I am Ukrainian myself.
I volunteer at a local Ukrainian Saturday school, peer-tutor at my own school, and participate in activities such as Mock Trial and the school newspaper — all of which help me understand how students learn best.
This project comes from a personal place: I’ve been fortunate to receive a strong education, and I want to extend those same opportunities to students who may not have the same access or stability. At the heart of this initiative is simply a student who believes that small, student-led efforts can create meaningful change.
Why I Started This Project
I started this initiative after realizing how many students—both in my community and in areas affected by conflict—struggle to access consistent academic help. I wanted to create something simple, flexible, and student-led: a safe space where high school students can learn from peers who understand their challenges.
What began as a school project quickly became something I hope to continue long after, connecting motivated tutors with students who need support the most.
My Goals
Expand Academic Support
Add more STEM subjects, more levels, and more specialized support based on what Ukrainian students need most.
Grow Our Volunteer Network
Bring in motivated student tutors who want to help their peers and build long-term, consistent relationships.
Build a Sustainable Program
Develop a platform that lasts beyond my school project — one that continues supporting girls in Ukraine for years to come.
STEM is FEM
Our Ukrainian Partner
STEM in Conflict collaborates with STEM Is FEM, a community-based educational group in Ukraine.
Their team helps us connect with students who need support, align our tutoring with the Ukrainian curriculum, and ensure our program is culturally aware and responsive to local needs.
This partnership allows us to offer support that is grounded, informed, and genuinely helpful to students navigating extremely difficult circumstances.
