Creating a barrier-free space: Mastercard launches an inclusive cabin on the Ferris wheel at Kontraktova Square in Kyiv

Kyiv, 2 January 2024 – Mastercard has equipped the Ferris wheel at Kontraktova Square in Kyiv with a special inclusive passenger cabin, ensuring barrier-free access for people with disabilities. This will allow people who use wheelchairs, as well as people with visual and hearing impairments, to rise above their opportunities and experience the city from a new perspective.

"Promoting equal opportunities is at the core of the barrier-free movement and represents one of our values at Mastercard. As a global technology company, we understand the importance of breaking down barriers, not only in the realm of payments but also beyond. This is why we implement social initiatives to ensure equal rights and opportunities for everyone. We firmly believe that our new project can offer people with disabilities priceless memories and new experiences," says Natalia Baidala, Director, Integrated Marketing and Communications, Mastercard Ukraine and Moldova.

The company has enhanced the Ferris wheel by installing two lifts and a ramp for guests using wheelchairs. Unlike the standard cabins, the inclusive cabin is equipped with doors of a different configuration: they are wider and consist of three parts, making it easier for guests using wheelchairs to get inside. The cabin platform has been designed to be wider so that guests using wheelchairs can navigate freely in any direction without requiring additional assistance. Inside the cabin, there is a specially modified handrail and bench that can be lowered as needed. Furthermore, there will be an operator available at the location to assist guests and provide guidance on using the inclusive cabin if required.

Visitors in the inclusive cabin of the Ferris wheel will have the opportunity to experience an audio and video tour showcasing the historical landmarks of Kontraktova Square. This tour has also been adapted for people with visual and hearing impairments and will be shown on two media screens installed on both sides of the cabin where a sign language interpreter will describe the historical sights of Podil district and show photos of these places. The tour was developed by the Interesting Kyiv tour bureau in collaboration with NGO Accessible Cinema.

Until 31 January 2024, the inclusive cabin will be available free of charge for the first 50 guests every day. This offer is exclusively for people with disabilities and their accompanying persons. For more information about the terms of the promotion, please visit https://www.mastercard.ua/uk-ua/personal/offers-and-promotions/ohliadove-koleso-2024-promo.html. 

This initiative is one of Mastercard’s broader inclusion efforts. As part of the strategic partnership between Mastercard and Superhumans Centre, a modern clinic for prosthetics, reconstructive surgery and rehabilitation, two Ukrainian defenders who lost their arms in mine explosions have been fitted with state-of-the-art bionic upper limb prostheses for the first time in Ukraine. Moreover, a nationwide fundraising campaign was also held to support the prosthetics needs of Ukrainians who suffered war-related injuries. Additionally, Mastercard, together with Uklon and MacPaw, launched an ‘Inclusive’ car class for people with disabilities who use wheelchairs. Mastercard is a member of the ‘Business without Barriers’ community, founded by the First Lady of Ukraine Olena Zelenska.