1. Where did you grow up and if you moved to Halifax, what brought you here?

My native country is Ukraine. I moved to Canada, and specifically to Halifax, in 2022 while fleeing the war that happened in my country. Why Canada? Why Halifax? Well, Canada is one of the safest countries in the world and it’s a perfect place to start everything from scratch. I watched many videos about different provinces and cities, and I fell in love with Halifax - it is an amazing developing city with the ocean and stunning nature. Also, the local climate is very similar to the Ukrainian one, so it reminds me of home.

2. Can you highlight your education background and professional experience?

I have a master’s degree in Philology (the history of language), and I can speak three foreign languages (English, Greek and Italian) with Ukrainian and Russian as my native languages. I always love learning something new and teaching others at the same time. I used to work as a teacher in Ukraine many years ago and I will never forget this experience.

3. What drew you to banking?

Gaining new skills and trying a new industry has helped to broaden my horizons. Banking was like a foreign language for me, and it was worth it to try and challenge myself. A wonderful family who hosted us when we first came to Canada recommended me as an addition to the CUA team, and it has been a perfect fit.

4. Since joining CUA, what other positions have you held?

I have been working as a Financial Services Representative (FSR) for nearly two years, and I’m currently waiting for my permanent residency status from the Canadian government. I definitely see the potential opportunities for professional growth within CUA, and am looking forward to that as I continue to develop my skillset.

5. What does a “regular” workday look like for you? 

It’s always something new – new customers, new solutions, new experiences. The branch can be very busy at times and the FSRs are always involved in the morning opening routine, doing daily reports, packing money orders and preparing the branch for operations.

6. What is the best part of your job?

Serving customers, finding the best solutions for them, matching, and exceeding their expectations, and then receiving their feedback is the best part of my job that motivates me and inspires me to further develop my skills.

7. Since being in your role with CUA, what is the most valuable thing you’ve learned?

Everything is fixable. Sometimes you will make mistakes, and there are always people around you who can help and support you. At the same time, you may be someone else’s support in times of need.

8. What is one piece of financial advice that you believe everyone should follow?

Start saving today and educate yourself about finances, you will thank yourself tomorrow.

9. Outside of your professional life, what is your favourite activity or hobby?

Traveling is my passion. I love exploring new cultures, trying local foods, and discovering something new. Traveling fuels my curiosity and teaches me valuable lessons in adaptability and appreciation for diversity. It’s an enriching experience that I cherish deeply.

10. Do you perform volunteer or community work (boards, committees, sports, etc.) and if so, what?

One of my friends and coworkers has engaged me to help out with a number of events in the Spryfield community, and that has helped me to integrate into Canadian society.

11. What is your favourite meal to cook at home or order at a restaurant?

I love spending my free time cooking my favourite Ukrainian dishes such as varenyky (they are called perogies in Canada), borsch, deruny, or stuffed crepes. I think Ukrainian cuisine is the richest and most delicious, of course! And it’s a wonderful way to connect with my heritage and share delicious meals with friends and family. However, I also love Italian and Japanese cuisine.