Not only is Orysia Boychuk a visionary leader who started mobilizing Alberta’s Ukrainian community; she quickly formed networks with many organizations and settlement agencies that would help those fleeing the war in Ukraine.

Many evacuees fled without resources, contacts in Edmonton, or the ability to converse in English. In her role as president of an umbrella organization, she utilized networks throughout the province relying on her vast knowledge of the Ukrainian community. Orysia exemplifies servant leadership by aiding wherever it is needed, whether in Edmonton, Calgary, or other places in Alberta.

To date, approximately 3,100 evacuees have arrived in Edmonton. The following are some of the initiatives Orysia led or played a key role in:

• Coordinated the first plane from Poland with 67 evacuees from Ukraine.

• Worked in partnership with Firefighter Aid Ukraine to send the first plane load of emergency medical equipment to Ukraine.

• Assisted with promoting host family opportunities for newcomers and the donation of medical supplies, clothing, diapers, and many other necessities for the plane’s return trip.

• Raised funds for several initiatives including providing emergency shelter for families in crisis, and humanitarian aid directly back to Ukraine through the Canada Ukraine Foundation.

• Partnered with hotels and negotiated affordable emergency accommodations to allow time for the settlement agencies to find interim solutions.

• Established links with the Canadian Red Cross to secure help for evacuees.

• Played a critical role in intergovernmental relations and advocating pathways for Ukrainian newcomers on a federal, provincial and municipal level.

• Established several programs to assist newcomers including a food gift card program, online and in-person job fairs, bicycle donation program, and regular welcome events with information sessions to help them integrate into daily living with employment opportunities, guest speakers, agency speakers, and housing opportunities.

• Created several English language classes to provide basic conversation skills and support job readiness across the province.

• Implemented several communications networks through websites and social media to keep newcomers informed on housing, employment, and other opportunities.

Orysia has been a community builder throughout her life as evidenced in current and past activities and her pattern of lifelong service and leadership. She believes in the power of example to join forces towards common goals to accomplish more than expected. She has been able to do this by listening to various viewpoints and driving for consensus. Whether the groups are large or small she regards their goals as important and strives to bring people together.