In anticipation of Ukrainian New Year and Jasper’s first Mountain Malanka (New Year’s Eve) festival on January 21 at the Jasper Activity Centre, The Jasper Local presents another instalment of our Ukrainians Living in Jasper series. 

Thanks to the Canada-Ukraine authorization for emergency travel (CUAET), Ukrainians and their family members are granted free, extended temporary status which allows them to work, study and stay in Canada until it is safe for them to return home.

Some of those Ukrainians have made their temporary homes here in Jasper. In collaboration with freelance journalist Oksana Polivchak, The Jasper Local is debuting a series of profiles with members of the Ukrainian diaspora in our community. 

Alina Timofeeva hails from Kyiv, Ukraine. She arrived in Jasper on April 30. 

Oksana Polivchak: What were your first impressions of being in Canada and Jasper and how have they changed, seven months later?

Alina Timofeeva: At first it was very difficult for me, my first days in Canada were definitely very emotional. But I met an incredible lady, Nancy Addison, and her wonderful family. They’ve opened not only their home but their hearts for me. I could never have imagined that people could be so kind, generous and loving to total strangers. Let’s be honest, it’s very rare.

OP: What have you enjoyed about getting to know Jasper?

AT: Jasper is a magical place, not only because of nature, but because of the people. It has a great community; this is what has impressed me the most. Despite all of the elk and bears, I feel safe. I believe Jasper is a fairyland; here everyone can find a place to work and a place to stay. 

OP: Is there something that is significantly different between what you’ve seen in Canada and how life was before the war in Ukraine?

AT: After six months I’m absolutely sure that one Facebook post can change your life and open a new world for you. Canada is a multicultural country, and when you ask me about the difference between Ukraine and Canada I can say that the main difference is the people and their attitude to life. Here in Canada, people enjoy a simple life. We, Ukrainians, are used to difficulties and challenges in ours. Canada is the country of opportunities. 

OP: What is your advice or message for other Ukrainians who are planning to come to Canada?

AT: If you want to start a new life, choose a small town. And of course learn English. Everything else, Canada will provide you with. 

Oksana Polivchak // info@thejasperlocal.com