By Youdon Tenzin
Adjusting to a new country is difficult. Anyone who has ever had to leave everything they’ve ever known behind and move to a new country knows the feelings of uncertainty, fear and hope that this process accompanies. However, when you do not know the language that is spoken in your new country, there is an added layer of anxiety. Oleksandra Kuzma has been on this journey for almost two years.
In 2022, when Oleksandra’s home country Ukraine was invaded by Russia, she had no choice but to flee her home and seek refuge in Canada. As much as she wanted to stay in Ukraine and fight for her peace and freedom, she knew that it was dangerous to live in a war-torn country. This sudden shift in her life was terrifying and she tried her best to prepare for it. However, the reality of it all hit her when she realized that she hardly understood English, an obstacle that would prove to be a barrier when it came to adjusting to her new life.
Once a respected information technology teacher in a secondary school, Olekdandra’s world flipped upside down as she herself had to take on the role of a student. She knew that learning English would reduce many of the challenges she faced as a newcomer.
Oleksandra’s daughter, who was fluent in English, was in search of resources to support her mother in learning the language when she came upon the Mennonite New Life Centre of Toronto (MNLCT). Intrigued, she inquired about the services MNLCT provided. When she learned about the Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) Program, she requested her mother to sign up for classes.
For Oleksandra, the LINC program attracted her because of its welcoming environment to adult migrants.
The programs of MNLCT are already adopted to adult migrants who want to learn the language. They understand the life of migrants and the difficult problems of migrants,” she said.
Moreover, she found that LINC taught more than just language, it was a resource for her to learn more about the culture and history of Canada. Under the guidance of her instructors, Oleksandra has noticed a significant progress in her reading and writing skills. She cites listening as an area she would still like to improve in.
Apart from the LINC program, Oleksandra regularly uses the MNLCT mobile application. She enjoys using the app to get answers to questions about her new life in Canada. From language to health, the steps involved in settling down in a new country brings about many questions.
“The app helps me to find solutions for my problems,” says Oleksandra.
Although her life took a sudden turn in 2022, Oleksandra remains hopeful of her future. As her language skills progress, she looks forward to searching for employment and being able to converse freely and easily as she did in her home country. Her journey has just begun.
I am grateful to the Canadian government and the Mennonite New Life Centre for the support system it has created for immigrants and for the opportunity to learn English for free. It is very important to me.”
