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Zhanna’s Story: I’m so inspired and motivated to work and to be useful

Credit: Zhanna Kolesnyk

Coming to Canada – this idea from the very beginning was like a step into the unknown. But sometimes it is the only way move forward. It was an absolutely new country for me. Fortunately, I knew a little English, since I worked as a sales manager for an outsourcing company in Ukraine. 

I filled in a form on the Help Ukrainian Vancouver Island website. And I got help when I needed it. 

Because of my disability I often depend on other people’s help. I’m very thankful to all of the people who help me in my life in different situations; I never take it for granted. I am so impressed with the readiness of Canadian people to open their hearts and houses for those who are in need. 

The person who hosts me is very nice, kind, open-minded, and intelligent. She tells me a lot about Canada: Canadian rules, traditions and culture.

HUVI volunteers have done a lot of work to settle those who came to Vancouver Island from Ukraine during the last months, and I really can’t find the right words to say how amazing they are.

The checklist HUVI provides to every newcomer was very helpful for me. And when all of the forms were filled in and all of the registrations were made: I got a job offer. 

I just finished second week of my new job, and now I’m so inspired and motivated to work and to be useful.

Zhanna volunteering at the Victoria Pride Festival, June 2022
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