Building New Beginnings: Tetiana Movchaniuk’s Journey from Ukraine to Canada
Posted on March 20, 2025
Relocating to a new country comes with uncertainty, especially when the decision is sudden and unplanned. For Tetiana Movchaniuk, leaving Ukraine in May 2022 due to the war was a difficult transition. Determined to continue her career in the nonprofit sector and expand her project management skills in the IT industry, she embarked on a new journey in Canada. With support from Newcomer Women’s Services Toronto (NEW) and the Advanced Leadership Program (ALP), Tetiana overcame obstacles and successfully established her career. Today, she works as a Project Coordinator at Miratech, a leading IT company.
Finding Strength Through Community Support
Upon arriving in Canada, Tetiana faced numerous challenges: adjusting to a new culture, securing housing, enrolling her child in school, and navigating the job market. Language barriers and the absence of an established network further complicated her transition. It was through a recommendation from a fellow Ukrainian that she discovered NEW and its supportive programs for newcomers. Recognizing her goal of advancing her project management career, she enrolled in the Advanced Leadership Program.
The program not only provided Tetiana with valuable mentorship and skill development but also opened doors to practical opportunities. “ALP gave me the confidence and structured knowledge I needed to thrive in my career,” she shares. With career guidance from Ritu Tokas, Resource and Information Specialist at NEW, she navigated the Canadian job market with determination. Within three months of completing the program, she secured a grant and landed her current role at Miratech. Tetiana’s journey serves as a testament to the power of resilience and the transformative support of organizations like NEW.
Empowerment Through Skill Development
Tetiana attributes much of her success to the hands-on learning and mentorship she received at NEW. The program’s emphasis on leadership, project management skills, and self-confidence proved invaluable. “The mentorship I received helped me translate my practical experience into a Canadian context. Completing the program and earning my certificate significantly reduced my self-doubt,” she reflects.
The program’s impact extended beyond technical knowledge. In addition to her professional growth, Tetiana found a supportive network of peers and mentors who encouraged her throughout her journey. She now applies her expertise to manage projects directly with clients, building on the experience she gained through NEW’s training.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Newcomer Women
Looking ahead, Tetiana is passionate about paying it forward. She envisions herself as a mentor, offering guidance and support to other newcomer women facing similar challenges. “Never give up, no matter how difficult the path,” she advises. “Seek mentorship, stay resilient, and believe in yourself.”
In addition to her career at Miratech, Tetiana remains dedicated to her charitable foundation, School of the Future, in Ukraine. She hopes to continue her social impact by initiating community projects in Canada. Her journey serves as a testament to the power of resilience and the transformative support of organizations like NEW.
About "Building New Beginnings"
This series highlights the journeys of newcomer women as they overcome challenges and build their careers in Canada. Through their stories, we celebrate resilience, achievements, and the impact of Newcomer Women’s Services Toronto programs. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories!