Valeriia

Valeriia Akatova is a guide at Retraite Eveil whose journey embodies profound resilience, inner transformation, and the power of turning personal adversity into compassionate support for others. Born in January 1993 in Ukraine, she brings a unique depth of lived experience to the retreats, particularly for participants navigating trauma, PTSD, depression, loss, or feelings of disconnection.

In February 2022, Valeriia was living in Kyiv with her young daughter when the Russian invasion began. Awakened by explosions nearby, she quickly gathered essentials and fled with her daughter, sister, and a friend. After a harrowing journey through Poland and Germany, they found refuge in the south of France (Gers region). There, supported by the extraordinary generosity of the local community, and opportunities like factory work, Valeriia rebuilt her life while ensuring her daughter adapted remarkably well despite the language barrier.

This period of exile and reconstruction led to a pivotal encounter with Cédric Bonnecaze, co-founder of Retraite Eveil. Recognizing Valeriia’s strength, empathy, and inner clarity, Cédric invited her to join the team as a guide. Her own path through war, displacement, and renewal gives her a rare ability to hold space for others facing similar inner chaos. Valeriia accompanies participants with a calm, firm yet kind presence, helping them release control, process emotions, and rebuild with newfound clarity, qualities honed through her direct understanding of trauma and resilience.

At Retraite Eveil, Valeriia creates a safe, empathetic environment where participants feel seen and supported. She draws on lessons of adaptability, community, accepting uncertainty, and the courage to rebuild after loss. Her guidance helps transform suffering into strength and confusion into purpose, making the retreats spaces of genuine inner reconstruction.

We are proud to have Valeriia Akatova as part of our team. Her story and presence offer a powerful testament that even after the hardest trials, rebirth and meaningful contribution are possible.