By Lyudmyla
When the war started in Ukraine, we had to leave our home in Kharkiv very fast. It was a difficult time. My husband, Volodymyr, and I came to Toronto with our two children and only two suitcases. The city here is so big and quiet compared to our life before. We were very worried and did not know what to expect.
We were happy to be safe in Canada, but everything felt hard. Simple things, like finding the right school for my children or knowing how the doctor’s office works, were confusing. The biggest problem for me was English. I studied it a long time ago, but here, when people speak fast, I did not understand. I felt shy and had to ask my husband or someone else to help me with everything. I felt like I lost my voice.
I knew I needed to learn better. I wanted to be strong for my children. So, I found the LINC (Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada) class.
LINC was really good. It was not just English; it was about Canadian life. In the class, I met people from many countries, like India, Syria, and China. We learned to speak, and we helped each other. We learned how to find a job and how to talk to new people. It was important to feel like I was not alone.
Volodymyr says that good English is the most important thing here. It’s true. When my English got better, I could talk to my daughter’s teacher. I could go to the store and understand everything. I started to feel like a real person here, not just a visitor. I felt independent again.
Now, we have been here for two years. Toronto is starting to feel like our new home. We still miss Ukraine very much, but we are making a good life here.
If you are a new person in Canada, I want to share some advice:
- Go to English classes right away. The free LINC classes are very important. They help you speak and make friends quickly.
- Do not be afraid to ask people. Canadians are usually nice and want to help you. If you don’t understand, ask people to speak slowly or ask for directions. It helps you learn.
- Find new friends. It is good to talk to people who understand your experience. Look for groups at the library or community center.
Canada is a new chance for our family. The beginning is hard, but every small success. Like talking to a new friend or having a good day at the market. It is a big step forward. We are building our life here, and that is a wonderful feeling.
