When the Russian invasion began, her native village, where her parents resided, swiftly fell under Russian occupation. During that period, Tania was in Kyiv and witnessed the commencement of the invasion.
Each Ukrainian had their own story. When it all began, I felt hollow and weary. I recall the commencement of the bombings in Kyiv. I was actually at the airport when my flight got cancelled, and an announcement was made, urging everyone to evacuate the area promptly and locate a secure haven. I can still vividly remember the onset of panic – helicopters swirling overhead, the cacophony of explosions, the ongoing battles. My anxiety surged, especially for my family caught within the occupied zone and for my sister who, despite all odds, managed to survive alongside a sick child and an injured husband. Her resilience fills me with immense pride.
Tetiana’s choice to move to Canada was a tough one, motivated by security concerns. She departed her home country in March 2022, recognizing the necessity for change. By May 29, 2022, she had landed in Canada. From her early days in the country, Tetiana has been working as an employment consultant for an organization, assisting fellow newcomers in adapting to Canada and navigating the job market: writing a CV, composing cover letters, and researching employment opportunities. Over this period, she has aided numerous newly arrived Ukrainians who encounter challenges in securing work, finding housing, and adapting to their new surroundings.
“Many people abroad fail to grasp the reality unfolding in Canada. This disparity primarily stems from differences in mentality. Additionally, securing employment in Canada isn’t straightforward, given the intense competition, work demand, and job scarcity – all of which elevate employer expectations. Furthermore, urban infrastructure often necessitates owning a car, an important part of life here.”
Among the recently arrived Ukrainian community in Canada, Tetiana identifies three predominant issues. “Firstly, there’s the language barrier. Individuals aged 45 to 50, despite their education and aspirations, face unmet expectations due to language limitations. Secondly, there’s the challenge of securing employment. A lack of language proficiency confines individuals to survival jobs, which are equally challenging to find. Lastly, there’s the issue of housing. This is particularly pronounced in Ontario, a favoured province for migrants. Without language proficiency, finding work becomes arduous, and without work, securing housing remains elusive. It’s a cycle that’s incredibly difficult to break.”
According to Tetiana, it remains crucial to extend assistance to Ukrainians despite the prevailing weariness caused by the ongoing war. She actively engaged alongside fellow women in Ottawa, participating in numerous political actions and protests to aid Ukraine. She observes a concerning decline in Canadians’ attention towards Ukrainians, even though the Canadian government’s support remains steadfast. Tetiana stresses the importance of directing attention toward local charitable and political gatherings.
“I found it meaningful to take part in rallies outside the Russian embassy in Ottawa in June 2023 when the Russians demolished the Kakhovska dam. We also organized a demonstration near the Parliament of Canada on June 12, 2023, to spotlight the ongoing genocide and ecocide in Ukraine – a place where lives are lost, and children are abducted on a daily basis.
A noticeable shift is occurring in the pattern of support for Ukraine. Canadians perceive the government’s backing as sufficient. However, I believe we should stage more cultural events from the Ukrainian community itself. Initiating flash mobs, screening Ukrainian films, and hosting photo exhibitions accompanied by a festival of Ukrainian cuisine can significantly propagate awareness about Ukraine.
I would propose that the local journalists’ union and media establish a short-term internship program for Ukrainians. This initiative would enable them to create media-oriented projects centred around daily narratives about Ukrainian culture. This way, we can demonstrate that our focus isn’t solely on seeking international aid; rather, Ukrainians are nurturing and advancing their own culture within Canada, fostering unity among activists.
Tetiana stands as one of the Ukrainian women navigating a challenging adaptation phase in a foreign land. Her day commences with updates about Ukraine, underscoring the imperative to contribute earnestly. She regards her role as garnering resources to bolster Ukraine and disseminate Ukrainian culture in Ottawa. Tetiana underscores the bravery, resilience, and diligence of Ukrainian women.
“When Ukrainian women embark on journeys across the globe with children, without spouses, language skills, employment, friends, or family in Canada, it exemplifies a courageous feat that not everyone can undertake. Despite these challenges, they persevere, flourish, and extend aid to others. Ukrainians are renowned for their unwavering work ethic, and Ukrainian women serve as inspiration. Their roles encompass myriad responsibilities: nurturing children, mastering a new language, driving, nurturing personal growth, and more. I hold great pride in these women and wish them enhanced self-belief. To those who arrive in Canada, seize every opportunity, embrace the unfamiliar, and stand united in support.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Canadians. As the CUAET program draws to a close, I extend my appreciation to the Canadian government and its citizens for their support during these trying times. I am heartened by the curiosity most Canadians exhibit about Ukraine and our history, as well as their welcoming disposition towards us.
Presently, Tetiana remains dedicated to assisting others, actively engaging in the coordination of both political and cultural events within Ottawa. The overarching aim is to rally the local community behind Ukraine amidst the sweeping Russian invasion.
“My impetus stems from the dream of our win. Each morning, I arise and tune into the latest updates regarding Ukraine. The realization that Ukrainians are steadfastly safeguarding every inch of our homeland underscores my purpose here in Canada – to contribute in any conceivable way and garner substantial resources for bolstering Ukraine’s cause while sharing our cultural heritage. It’s imperative that we grasp the gravity of the situation; inaction today could imperil tomorrow.”
How Canada is helping Ukrainians
In the wake of the comprehensive Russian invasion of Ukraine that commenced on February 24, 2022, countless Ukrainians have been compelled to flee their homes. Responding swiftly, on March 3, 2022, the Canadian government unveiled the CUAET program, which facilitated the urgent entry of Ukrainians into the country. The program encompassed temporary financial aid and access to an array of settlement and adaptation services.
As of today, a staggering 175,729 Ukrainians have arrived in Canada through the CUAET.
However, on July 15, 2023, the Canadian government ceased accepting new applications under the CUAET program. Nonetheless, they extended support measures for newly arrived Ukrainians until April 2024.
According to information released by the Canadian government, commencing October 23, 2023, Canada will initiate a fresh pathway to permanent residency for Ukrainians who fled the unlawful Russian invasion and wish to establish themselves in Canada. To qualify, Ukrainian nationals must be in Canada with temporary resident status and have one or more family members already residing in the country. Eligible family members encompass spouses, domestic partners, parents, grandparents, siblings, children, or grandchildren of Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
For Ukrainians possessing a CUAET visa, the opportunity to travel to Canada under special temporary provisions will persist until March 31, 2024. After the conclusion of overseas applications under the CUAET on July 15, 2023, Ukrainian individuals and their family members can continue to apply for temporary resident visas to Canada under the existing immigration measures.
Upon arrival in Canada, temporary residents will be entitled to request extended stays of up to three years through study permits and open work permits, with a strong emphasis on expediting these processes. Furthermore, they will gain access to settlement services, including language courses and employment assistance.
