For many newcomers, Canada represents a fresh start—a chance to rebuild, to dream again, and to find peace after unimaginable hardships. For Olha and her son Oleksii, newcomers from Ukraine, Canada became not just a place of refuge but a true home where they could finally feel safe and hopeful about the future. Their journey to this new beginning, however, was long and filled with loss, resilience, and an unbreakable will to keep moving forward.

A Life Once Full of Promise

Before the war in Ukraine changed everything, Olha lived a fulfilling and accomplished life in Ukraine. She and her family had worked hard to build a comfortable home, achieve career success, and provide a bright future for their son. She loved her country, her culture, and the sense of community that came with it. Her son, a talented and determined young man, thrived in school and was deeply passionate about sports. Life was not without its challenges, but it was good—they had stability, dreams, and the satisfaction of knowing their efforts were paying off.

The First War: 2014

In 2014, everything changed when Russia launched itsattack on Ukraine’s East. Olha’s family was among the millions who were forced to make an impossible choice: stay and risk their lives, or leave behind everything they had built and start over in an unfamiliar place. The decision was heartbreaking, but survival took priority. Olha and her family relocated to another city within Ukraine, determined to rebuild once again. It was not easy. They had to find new jobs, a new home, and adjust to an entirely new life. But through resilience and hard work, they managed. Slowly, they regained stability, and although the scars of displacement remained, hope began to return.

The Second War: 2022

Just as Olha and her son were starting to feel secure again, February 24, 2022, shattered their world once more. This time, Russia’s full-scale invasion left no room for uncertainty—staying in Ukraine was no longer an option. By then, Olha had already endured another personal challenge: a difficult divorce. Facing both emotional and physical upheaval, she made the hardest decision of her life—to leave her homeland entirely and seek refuge abroad.

The journey was painful. Fleeing meant saying goodbye not only to the country she loved but also to the places and people that had shaped her life. Her native city was now occupied, and the second city she had called home was reduced to rubble. Her apartment was hit with a missle, and it’s completely destroyed. There was nothing left to return to. More importantly, she had to ensure the safety and future of her teenage son, who deserved the chance to grow up without the constant fear of war.

Olha’s apartment is completely ruined

A New Beginning

Canada welcomed Olha and her son with open arms. The transition was not easy, but it was made possible thanks to the kindness and generosity of the Canadian government and, most importantly, the people. From the moment they arrived, they were met with warmth, support, and understanding. Unlike the uncertainty and fear that had followed them for years, Canada provided a sense of security they had not felt in a long time.

Welcoming community helped them get on their feet. The kindness of everyday Canadians that truly made the difference. Strangers became friends, and the generosity of volunteers, neighbors, and local organizations gave Olha the strength to believe in the future again. She was deeply touched by the fairness and work ethic that defines Canadian society—values she shares and admires.

Finding Purpose and Giving Back

Determined to repay the kindness she had received, Olha threw herself into volunteer work. She found fulfillment in helping others, whether by supporting newcomers like herself, assisting in community projects, or working in a retirement center. Her time spent volunteering not only gave her a sense of purpose but also deepened her connection to her new home. She was no longer just a refugee—she was an active, contributing member of Canadian society.

Meanwhile, her son flourishes in his new environment. He continues his education, pursues his passion for sports, and dreams of becoming a policeman. He just started working part time in Fortınos. He adapted to life in Canada with remarkable resilience.

A Future in Canada

Now, Olha no longer sees her future anywhere else. Her past may always be a part of her, but Canada has given her and her son something they had lost long ago: stability and hope. She knows that returning to Ukraine is not an option— their home is destroyed. But in Canada, she has found a place where she can rebuild, where she can work hard, and where she can finally feel safe.

Her goal is simple: to ensure her son has the future he deserves. With Canada’s opportunities, fairness, and strong sense of community, she knows that goal is within reach. As she continues to build her life here, she remains grateful for the kindness she has received and is determined to keep giving back.

For Olha, Canada is more than just a new country—it is home. And for that, she will always be thankful.

This article was written by Iryna Paltseva. She is a Ukrainian copywriter and web developer who relocated to Canada under the CUAET program. You can contact her via email at: irynapaltseva@gmail.com