Day 1,360 since February 24th, 2022 (1,360 день повномасштабної війни)
Day 4,286 since February 20th, 2014, Temporary Annexation of Crimea by the Russian Federation
Thank you to all who #StandWithUkraine
Greetings from Vienna, Austria!
As November deepens and we approach one of the most solemn dates in Ukrainian history, I want to express profound gratitude for your unwavering support and commitment to standing with Ukraine. This Saturday, November 15, marks a special observance as we gather online to honor the memory of millions of Ukrainians who perished in the Holodomor genocide of 1932-33.
In this update, we commemorate the Holodomor victims, announce the new Friends of Ukraine Award at Thompson Rivers University, highlight critical educational opportunities for Ukrainian students across Canada, showcase groundbreaking academic events examining Ukraine’s history and environment, and continue our call to action for permanent residency pathways for CUAET holders.
Please take a moment to read through the updates below and take action where you can. Your participation helps preserve Ukrainian memory, supports Ukrainian students, and provides vital support to those who need it most.
Thank you for your continued solidarity. Together, we make a difference.
HOLODOMOR MEMORIAL DAY PRESENTATION
This Saturday, November 15 • 1:00 PM PST
Join us online as we honor the memory of millions of Ukrainians who perished in the Holodomor genocide of 1932-33.
Featured Speaker: Valentina Kuryliw, Director of Education at the Holodomor Research and Education Consortium (Canadian Institute of Ukrainian Studies, University of Alberta)
This powerful presentation will share:
- Historical context of Stalin’s genocidal famine
- Survivor testimonies
- Educational resources about this tragic chapter in Ukrainian history
Event Details:
- Format: Online via Zoom
- FREE EVENT – Registration Required
- Register: https://forms.gle/SYF6gTeMW8H6s8gw7
- Zoom link will be sent to registered participants
Hosted by: Ukrainian Canadian Congress Thompson-Okanagan Branch and DROKAcademy
Thank you to Zonia Haydymowsky for creating the poster and inviting the speaker.
As we approach the fourth Saturday of November, we remember those who were deliberately starved and honor their memory by ensuring their stories are never forgotten.
Please share this event widely. Together, we ensure the truth of the Holodomor is known and remembered.
In memory of the millions of innocent lives lost. May their memory be eternal. Вічна пам’ять.
NEW: Friends of Ukraine Award at Thompson Rivers University
Application Deadline: December 31, 2025
Thompson Rivers University has established the Friends of Ukraine Award, a $1,000 annual scholarship for TRU students connected to Ukraine through heritage, culture, or community involvement.
Award Details:
- Value: $1,000.00
- Number: 1 award per year
- Field of Study: Open to all programs
- Level: Any level (undergraduate or graduate)
- Date Established: September 9, 2025
Eligibility: Awarded to a TRU student connected to Ukraine through heritage, culture, or community involvement.
Application Requirements:
- Submit a 250-word essay on your eligibility
- Deadline: December 31 each year
- Submit to: ronyango@tru.ca
Who Should Apply:
- Students of Ukrainian heritage
- Students involved in Ukrainian community activities
- Students learning Ukrainian language or culture
- Students supporting Ukraine through activism or volunteer work
- CUAET visa holders studying at TRU
Why This Matters: This award recognizes students who maintain connections to Ukrainian culture and heritage while pursuing their education in Canada. It honors those who stand with Ukraine during this critical time in history.
Award Contact: Dr. Oleksandr “Sasha” Kondrashov 📧 krasun@gmail.com
TRU Inquiries: Tatiana Gilbert, Director of Development 📞 250-214-0055 📧 tgilbert@tru.ca
Please share this opportunity widely and help identify eligible students so they can apply before December 31st.
URGENT: Support for Displaced Ukrainian Students Across Canada
Comprehensive Resources from SUSK (Ukrainian Canadian Students’ Union)
The Ukrainian Canadian Students’ Union (SUSK) maintains comprehensive, regularly updated resources to help displaced Ukrainian students access fair tuition, academic support, mental health services, and reduced bureaucracy at Canadian post-secondary institutions.
Access Complete Resources: https://www.susk.ca/for-students/support-for-displaced-ukrainian-students/
Canada’s Top 10 Institutions for Ukrainian Student Support
SUSK has identified Canada’s leading post-secondary institutions offering the most comprehensive support for Ukrainian students, ranking them based on:
- Cost relief (tuition waivers/domestic rates), especially for CUAET students
- Additional funding (bursaries/emergency aid)
- Wrap-around services (counselling, housing, immigration advising, peer mentorship)
Top 10 Institutions:
- St. Thomas University (New Brunswick) – Best overall conditions
- Tuition & fees waived for up to 2 academic years in BA program
- Residence fees waived (up to 2 years)
- Capped at 10 students/year
- Full suite of student services
- Okanagan College (British Columbia)
- All domestic tuition covered for CUAET students who applied before Sept 1, 2025 (continues to program completion)
- Broad wellness supports
- Saskatchewan Polytechnic (Saskatchewan)
- Domestic tuition eligibility for CUAET
- SIOS Living Cost Bursary
- Clear residency/education pathways
- Counselling (1:1 & group)
- Assiniboine College (Manitoba)
- Domestic tuition (2025/26 & beyond)
- Entrance scholarships, need-based bursaries, emergency loans/bursaries
- Free mental-health counselling & accessibility supports
- University of Manitoba (Manitoba)
- Domestic tuition for CUAET students
- Extensive campus supports
- Douglas College (British Columbia)
- Domestic tuition rates for CUAET arrivals
- Access to general supports
- Camosun College (British Columbia)
- Domestic tuition for CUAET
- ESL & Academic Upgrading tuition waivers
- Counselling and academic accommodations
- NSCC – Nova Scotia Community College (Nova Scotia)
- Domestic tuition (2025–26) for CUAET
- $3M+ in awards annually
- Tutoring (PAL), wellness and study-skills support
- University of New Brunswick (New Brunswick)
- Domestic tuition for CUAET
- Counselling, medical services, housing support
- Immigration advising, help with bursaries/transportation
- University of Northern British Columbia (British Columbia)
- Domestic-rate eligibility for CUAET
- Early entrance awards
- Mental-health services and peer-to-peer mentorship
Other Strong Institutions: Mount Allison, SAIT, UFV, Dalhousie, Niagara College
BREAKTHROUGH: Saskatchewan Domestic Tuition for Ukrainian Students
The Government of Saskatchewan continues to provide tuition relief for CUAET students, allowing them to pay domestic tuition rates rather than international rates at all Saskatchewan post-secondary institutions.
Eligibility Requirements:
To pay domestic tuition rates, applicants must:
- Have entered Saskatchewan under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program
- Plan to pursue part-time or full-time studies at a Saskatchewan post-secondary institution
AND be connected to Saskatchewan in one of the following ways:
- Graduated from a Saskatchewan secondary school; OR
- Resided in Saskatchewan for one year prior to the start of their post-secondary program; OR
- Arrived in Canada in 2022 or later and have only lived in Saskatchewan
Important Notes:
- Students must provide proof of landing and residency
- All eligible applicants are still considered international students by the Government of Canada and require a valid study permit
- Ukrainian tuition relief is only applicable to Saskatchewan institutions
- Institutions charge the domestic rate; the Ministry of Advanced Education pays the difference
Additional Saskatchewan Supports:
- Graduate Retention Program: Up to $24,000 in tax credits for graduates who live and work in Saskatchewan
- Canada-Saskatchewan Integrated Student Assistance: Available once students become permanent residents
- Institutional scholarships may be available
Learn More: https://www.saskatchewan.ca/residents/saskatchewan-supports-ukraine/ukrainian-student-tuition
NEW: University of Toronto International Fee Exemption for CUAET
University of Toronto has added CUAET visa holders to its International Fee Exemption policy, providing another major institution offering domestic tuition rates.
Learn More: https://www.registrar.utoronto.ca/fees-payments/international-fee-exemption/
Essential Document Guide for Ukrainian Students
SUSK provides critical communication tools to engage with Canadian institutions, including:
- Example emails for university departments (admissions, faculty, finance)
- Supporting documents:
- SUSK Statement
- Motivation Letter Sample
- Description of CUAET visa and its conditions for universities
- Recommendations to include transcripts and work/study visa copies
Access Complete Resources: https://www.susk.ca/for-students/support-for-displaced-ukrainian-students/
For Additional Support: Email info@susk.ca with subject line “Support for UKR INT Students – additional resources”
CRITICAL: Pathway to Permanent Residence for CUAET Visa Holders
UCC Policy Recommendations to Minister Metlege Diab
(This section remains urgent and relevant from our October update)
The Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) has submitted crucial policy recommendations to the Honourable Lena Metlege Diab, PC, MP, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, calling for a Temporary Public Policy (TPP) to provide a pathway to permanent residence for eligible CUAET visa holders and their families.
The Situation:
Since February 24, 2022, approximately 300,000 Ukrainians arrived in Canada under the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program. Best estimates suggest that fewer than half remain in Canada today. These individuals face:
- Uncertainty about their future as work permits expire and renewal timelines vary
- Employment challenges as Canadian employers are reluctant to offer long-term opportunities to those with temporary status
- Psychological stress from not knowing if or when the war will end, or if they can remain in Canada
- Limited access to existing PR pathways due to age, language requirements, lack of Canadian credentials, or program closures
Many CUAET holders have been working legally in Canada for over three years, contributing to the economy, paying taxes, filling labour shortages, and integrating into Canadian communities—yet face obstacles in securing permanent residence.
Key UCC Recommendations:
1. Temporary Public Policy (TPP) Pathway for Permanent Residence
The UCC recommends that the Minister approve a TPP similar to the Hong Kong PR pathway, with qualifying applicants who:
- Hold a valid CUAET visa providing temporary resident status in Canada
- Are physically present in Canada when applying for and receiving permanent residence
- Demonstrate an intention to live in Canada
- Achieve a Level 4 score in all 4 skills (reading, writing, listening, speaking) in English or French—reflecting the level required for citizenship
- Have been working legally in Canada for at least 12 months full-time (30 hours per week) or equivalent part-time hours (1,560 hours total), or can provide equivalent proof of income for the 3 years before PR application
The UCC also recommends:
- Permitting applicants to apply for an open work permit while waiting for permanent residence processing
- Reinstating IRCC-funded Language Instruction for Newcomers to Canada (LINC) settlement services for CUAET visa holders for a three-year period
2. Increased Provincial Nominee Allocations
The UCC recommends increasing provincial nominee allocations across Canada, allowing provincial governments to develop streams designed to meet specific economic labour requirements—following successful models like the Manitoba Provincial Nominee Program (MPNP) Ukraine Special Measures.
Why This Matters:
- 69% of Canadians support more permanent residency pathways for Ukrainians displaced by Russia’s genocidal war (October 2025 Abacus Data survey commissioned by UCC)
- 81% of Canadians prefer that Ukrainians be able to stay long-term
- 80% agree that fuller integration benefits both newcomers and Canadian communities
- Canada has precedent for compassionate action—the Hong Kong PR pathway provided similar support for those fleeing political repression
For more details: https://www.ucc.ca/2025/10/16/ucc-policy-recommendations-to-minister-metlege-diab-ircc-october-16-2025/
ACTION REQUIRED: Sign E-Petition e-6866
Support Permanent Residency Pathways for CUAET and Emergency Immigration Program Holders
Petition Status: Open for signature until February 12, 2026, at 1:14 p.m. (EDT)
Initiated by John Stadnyk from Calgary, Alberta, this petition to the House of Commons calls on the Government of Canada to establish a dedicated, one-time permanent residency pathway for those currently in Canada under CUAET and other temporary emergency immigration measures.
Sign the Petition: https://www.ourcommons.ca/petitions/en/Petition/Details?Petition=e-6866
Deadline: February 12, 2026
Your signature demonstrates that Canadians support providing stability and recognition for those who have contributed to our communities during this humanitarian crisis.
Academic Events: Understanding Ukraine’s Past, Present, and Future
Seminar: Waste, Epidemics, and Human Health in Environmental Studies
Part of the international series “Rethinking Ukraine’s Environment: War, Ecocide, and Beyond”
Date: Thursday, December 4, 2025 Time: 10:00 AM MST (Edmonton) / 12:00 PM EST (Toronto) / 18:00 CET (Warsaw) / 19:00 EET (Kyiv) Format: Online only Registration: https://www.ualberta.ca/en/canadian-institute-of-ukrainian-studies/news-and-events/events/2025/seminar-waste-epidemics-and-human-health-in-environmental-studies.html
This seminar will explore how societies have understood and managed threats to health and the environment across different historical contexts. From early Soviet policies that turned waste into a strategic economic resource, to the late socialist era’s “waste anxieties” over invisible toxins like radiation and nitrates, and ultimately to nineteenth-century literary and cultural responses to epidemics, the presentations will trace shifting perceptions in Ukraine of pollution, contagion, and cleanliness.
Speakers: Natalia Laas, Tetiana Perga, and Dmytro Yesypenko Welcome remarks: Natalia Khanenko-Friesen Moderator: Oleksii Chebotariov
Presentations in English; Q&A in English or Ukrainian.
This seminar is part of an international series that aims to foster a deeper understanding of historical human–environment relationships—a vital factor in addressing Ukraine’s current environmental challenges and envisioning a secure and sustainable future.
Hosted by: Canadian Institute of Ukrainian Studies (CIUS), in partnership with EnvHistUA Research Group, Centre for Baltic and East European Studies (Södertörn University), Center for Governance and Culture in Europe (University of St. Gallen), and the European Society for Environmental History (ESEH).
Russia’s Invasion of Ukraine and the Breakup of the Liberal World Order
2025 Dylynsky Memorial Lecture
Date: Wednesday, November 27, 2025 Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM EST Format: Hybrid – In-person at Campbell Conference Facility, Munk School, 1 Devonshire Place, Toronto AND online via Zoom
Featured Speaker: Lucan Ahmad Way – Distinguished Professor of Democracy, Department of Political Science, University of Toronto and Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada
Lecture Overview:
In this year’s Dylynsky Memorial Lecture, Professor Way will explain how Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 challenged long-held assumptions about the nature of the liberal world order. Many consistently believed that the West could transform illiberal states through economic integration—increased trade and closer political ties with the West were expected to result in the diffusion of democracy and global peace.
Such ideas partly motivated an active effort to open up the European economy to Russia in the 1990s. But in fact, this policy made Western states vulnerable to authoritarianism: Instead of the diffusion of democracy from West to East, the result was the spread of authoritarianism from East to West. Integration and the ease with which Vladimir Putin corrupted the European elite facilitated both the rise of populism and Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
About Professor Way:
Professor Way’s research focuses on global patterns of democracy and dictatorship. His most recent book (with Steven Levitsky), Revolution and Dictatorship: The Violent Origins of Durable Authoritarianism (Princeton University Press, 2022), was named one of TIME magazine’s 33 Most Anticipated Books of Fall 2022 and received the Juan Linz Best Book Prize. His work on competitive authoritarianism has been cited more than ten thousand times.
Chair and moderator: Tania Plawuszczak-Stech, Managing Editor of Scholarly Publications at CIUS and Coordinator of the CIUS Dylynsky Lecture Series
Sponsors: Canadian Institute of Ukrainian Studies (CIUS), Petro Jacyk Program for the Study of Ukraine, and Centre for European and Eurasian Studies (CEES)
Revolutionary Social Work Education: Dr. Kondrashov’s BSW & MSW Frameworks
Seeking University Partners for Accessible, Community-Grounded Programs
(This section remains available for interested institutions)
Dr. Oleksandr Kondrashov has developed complete BSW and MSW program frameworks that transform social work education from exclusive residential programs into accessible, community-grounded cohort models—breaking barriers for students who cannot relocate while maintaining educational excellence.
BSW On/Off-the-Ground Cohort Model:
- 18 complete course frameworks | 60 credit hours | 7 semesters
- 156 weekly module topics with Social GRACES integration
- Complete CASWE-ACFTS 2021 EPAS alignment
- Five delivery models: on-ground, blended, high-tech cohort, 100% online, hybrid-flexible
- Investment: $19,999 CAD
MSW On/Off-the-Ground Cohort Model:
- 12 complete course frameworks | 36 credit hours | 3-6 semesters
- 96+ weekly module topics with integrated learning objectives
- Dual pathway design: therapy-focused OR elective-focused routes
- Optional professional registration alignment (BCCSW, BCACC RCC)
- Investment: $19,999 CAD
For framework purchase, university partnerships, and customization inquiries:
Dr. Oleksandr (Sasha) Kondrashov 📧 krasun@gmail.com | 🌐 www.krasun.ca
Learn more:
- BSW Framework: https://krasun.ca/product/bsw-on-off-the-ground-cohort-model/
- MSW Framework: https://krasun.ca/product/msw-on-off-the-ground-cohort-model/
- Complete Overview: https://krasun.ca/2025/10/13/dr-oleksandr-kondrashovs-bsw-msw-on-off-the-ground-cohort-models-complete-overview/
Ukrainian Roots Challenge 2026: Cultural Resistance Meets Direct Action
Registration Opens January 2026 | Challenge Begins February 2026
(This initiative continues from our October announcement)
A 12-week video storytelling initiative starting February 2026 that combines cultural resistance with direct support for Ukraine’s Armed Forces.
How It Works:
Participants create 12 weekly videos exploring their Ukrainian roots while committing to support Ukraine’s Armed Forces throughout their journey.
Three Levels:
- 🌱 SPROUT (15-60 seconds): Perfect for beginners
- 🌿 BRANCH (60-120 seconds): Comfortable middle ground
- 🌳 ROOT (120-360 seconds): Deep storytelling
Timeline for 2026:
- January 2026: Registration opens
- February 2026: Challenge begins (marking 4 years since the invasion)
- February-April 2026: 12-week journey
- May 2026: Celebration and digital archive launch
Get Involved:
- Email: drokacademy@gmail.com
- Hashtag: #UkrainianRootsChallenge2026
- Learn more: https://krasun.ca/2025/10/04/ukrainian-roots-challenge-2026-cultural-resistance-meets-direct-action/
Weekly Stand with Ukraine Gatherings
Join us every Saturday at 3:00 PM at Kamloops City Hall for our weekly Stand with Ukraine gatherings. Participants can send postcards to Ukraine and show continued support for Ukrainian defenders and civilians.
Thank you to Michele for leading this vital community initiative. Her dedication ensures that our voices of support reach those who need to know they are not forgotten.
Looking Forward
As we continue our journey together, I encourage you to:
- REGISTER for the Holodomor Memorial Day Presentation (Today, November 15, 1:00 PM PST)
- SHARE information about the Friends of Ukraine Award with TRU students (deadline December 31)
- EXPLORE SUSK resources for displaced Ukrainian students and share widely
- INFORM Ukrainian students about Saskatchewan domestic tuition and U of T fee exemptions
- SIGN E-Petition e-6866 supporting PR pathways for CUAET holders (deadline February 12, 2026)
- ATTEND upcoming academic events exploring Ukrainian history, culture, and environment
- SHARE information about Dr. Kondrashov’s BSW/MSW frameworks with university contacts
- REGISTER for the Ukrainian Roots Challenge 2026 when registration opens in January
- JOIN our weekly Saturday gatherings at City Hall
- SUPPORT Ukrainian cultural events and initiatives
Your continued participation and support make a meaningful difference in preserving Ukrainian heritage, supporting displaced students, and standing with those affected by the war.
Eternal Memory
Please, when possible, take a moment of silence to remember the victims of war in Ukraine and the millions who perished in the Holodomor genocide.
Вічная Пам’ять героям / Eternal memory to heroes
Вічна Пам’ять жертвам Голодомору / Eternal memory to the victims of the Holodomor
With respect,
Sasha
Stand with Ukraine. Remember the Holodomor. Preserve culture. Support defenders. Build community.
🇺🇦 Слава Україні! Героям слава! 💙💛
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