By Vlad Umnov
“On February 24, 2022, tanks entered my city and a war began in my country. After living in occupation for 6 months, I decided to leave the city.”
Katerina moved to Toronto from Melitopol, a city in southeastern Ukraine. Back home she helped children with mental health issues adapt to life.
Now her own life has completely changed.
“I chose Canada for rescue because my son studied here and the Canadian program CUAET helping Ukrainians seemed reliable. But when I arrived in the new land away from home and my usual way of life, I experienced confusion and fear of the future.”
Fortunately, a solution was found. Katerina found the Mennonite New Life Centre and the Centre’s supports for Ukrainian refugees.
“The Centre has become a beacon in the new stream of life.
The people who work for MNLCT are not only professionals, but also have a deep sense of empathy, which is very important when dealing with newcomers.
After receiving full support in filing documents, I registered in a short time to receive the necessary documents and financial assistance. I couldn’t do it myself as my language skills are not enough.
The next important step was English language courses. Convenient flexible schedule, a professional teacher and a friendly community gave me the opportunity to feel confident and free.
I constantly feel the support of the Centre. I receive invitations to the mental support seminar and others.
All my programs, courses and consultations have been absolutely free, but effective. I highly recommend MNLCT to Ukrainians who need urgent help and anyone who finds themselves in a difficult situation.”
Katerina is looking for an opportunity to get a Canadian certificate in her specialty. She discovered that Humber College and George Brown College have programs that are similar to her major.
She hopes to quickly improve her English for her new education and try to find ways to pay for her studies.
“Now I look forward with confidence.”
