Community Profile: Vadym & Iryna

This week’s community profile is about Vadym & Iryna who have been taking English classes with us for several months at MOSAIC engage. They gave us their thoughts about their life here in Canada. Thanks for sharing with us!

Tell us about yourselves

We  are Vadym and Iryna, a family from Ukraine and we have been living in Vancouver for 4 months.

What are the challenges you faced when you just moved to Canada? 

Cultural Adjustment: Adapting to a new culture can be overwhelming. Differences in social norms, customs, traditions, and even communication styles can lead to feelings of isolation, confusion, and frustration.

Language Barrier:For those who are not fluent in English, the language barrier can be a significant obstacle in daily life

Weather and Environment: BC`s climate can be a shocked to those not accustomed to drizzling and rains. And it is not even a first out autumn here. 

Job and Career Challenges: We have seasonal work which concerns cruise ships. But, the cruise ships season will finish in October, so we have to navigate a new job market. For newcomers, finding suitable employment that matches their skills and qualifications can be a significant challenge.

How do you find life in Canada?

Embracing the idea of living in Canada, we envision ourselves adapting with optimism and an open heart.

Where are your secret spots that make you feel comforted when you are a bit down? 

Imagine a nostalgic place from your past, like a childhood home or a favorite family gathering spot. The familiar surroundings and cherished memories can provide a sense of safety and comfort during challenging times.

How are you enjoying MOSAIC engage English classes? 

We've had an incredible experience with MOSAIC ESL classes and their dedicated teachers. From day one, the warm and welcoming atmosphere made us feel comfortable and excited to learn. The teachers are not only highly knowledgeable but also incredibly patient and understanding.

Any advice you could give to people who might want to move to Canada? 

Absolutely, moving to Canada can be an exciting and rewarding experience. Before moving, research extensively about Canada's culture, lifestyle, job market, and regions.