The family of immigrants from Donetsk successfully develops a business in the capital
This is mentioned in the latest issue of the special project "Kashtan.Business".
Even in the most adverse conditions – war, financial and economic crises, unemployment, emotional turmoil – many Ukrainians have not given up, lost hope, or sought better lives across the seas and oceans. They found the strength within themselves for a new start in an unfamiliar job, driven by immense desire, energy, and an entrepreneurial spirit. The heroes of this story are Margarita Lomako and her husband Mechislav Kudas, displaced persons from Donetsk.
1 This family exemplifies that success can still be achieved today. They established a cleaning company "Qlean" in Kyiv and are thriving in this field.
Cleaning is, as is known, a service for tidying up premises. Some may perceive this work as simple, as it seems that one only needs to use household appliances to dust, wash floors, and take out the trash. However, this is a very superficial understanding of the business. It's much more complex. To work professionally in this sector and start a business, one must first write a business plan, secure financing, and register the company. Then, one needs to hire qualified staff, rent an office, and find ways to promote themselves to potential clients and engage their interest. While it may not seem overly complicated, the most crucial step is to have the courage to take the first leap. Only the brave and determined, as it is known, conquer heights.
How did Margarita and Mechislav reach their pinnacle?
2 Margarita holds a university degree in teaching, translation, and English philology. She worked for a long time in schools and universities, but that was before 2014 in Donetsk. There, in Donbas, she also ventured into entrepreneurship by trading light fixtures. When clouds of Russian aggression began to gather over Donetsk, Margarita participated in rallies alongside progressive-minded Ukrainians to defend the interests of her homeland.
When the war began in 2014, she moved to Kyiv with her son. Later, she met Mechislav here. She tried to continue her business in light fixtures but was advised by friends to explore a new avenue – a cleaning company, suggesting that this service needed development in the capital and there was significant potential for growth. It was also advantageous that training was announced at that time for those interested in this field, after which one could obtain a grant.
3 Indeed, this was an opportunity. And Margarita, with her strong desire to create a successful business, seized it fully.
You won't believe it, but her business started with just a thousand euros. Margarita openly shares this in conversations with journalists, recalling how she and her husband rejoiced when they purchased their first basic work tools: a vacuum cleaner, a steam generator, and some other essentials.
"From the very beginning, we made it a point to use exclusively eco-friendly cleaning and washing products," says Margarita Lomako. "I’m pleased that our clients have not been disappointed in us, trust us, and are satisfied with our work. Our range of services is extensive – from daily cleaning of homes, offices, cafes, and restaurants to deep chemical cleaning and specialized cleaning after repairs."
4 In general, we offer regular cleaning of any premises. Special attention is paid to eco-friendliness and safety. One could say that we are a versatile team."
Mechislav Kudas, co-owner of the cleaning company "Qlean," adds to his wife's remarks. However, we asked him to share a bit about himself. Before the war, he worked in various companies in Donetsk. Initially, his son-in-law went to defend Ukraine – he participated in the ATO, and later Mechislav also joined the military. He states that he couldn't stay home while a loved one was fighting. Mechislav also became one of the defenders of the country. After a year and a half, due to health issues, he had to leave the service. Since then, he has fully immersed himself in entrepreneurship, working alongside his wife towards a common goal.
The family duo is successfully forging their own path. The couple shares their plans and prospects; they are completely focused on growth and integrating advanced technologies.
5 Today, they are considering expanding their chemical cleaning services not only in residential spaces but also in vehicles, such as trucks. They dream of having a large-scale cleaning service for such machines. This is promising.
There are, of course, many plans. But the most crucial aspect is that the company aims to implement cleanliness and order standards, utilizing innovative technologies and cleaning methods to achieve the highest results. This is why their clients are satisfied; they often write positive reviews about Qlean's work, thanking them for the impeccable cleanliness, care, and integrity. Ultimately, this is how it should be. Hence, the founders of the enterprise say: "Qlean" is more than just a cleaning company. It is a team of like-minded individuals striving to make your life cleaner, more comfortable, and healthier."
For more details, see the latest issue of the special project "Kashtan.Business" at this link.