Hello,

 

My name is Olya, I’m 16 and I’m a refugee from Ukraine. I had to flee my country. I am so grateful that I was able to find refuge in Switzerland, where I now live with my mother and my grandmother. Unfortunately, my father and my brother are still in Ukraine to help defend my country.

 

When I was a child I tried a lot of hobbies, but I didn’t like anything very much. When I was 7 years old, my friend offered me a chance to try ballroom dancing with her, and I fell in love with it.  In Ukraine, I was just a school student, who needed to pass exams, but when I came to Switzerland, I had a chance to try dancing here again. Now, I’m really happy to dance here, with really good trainers, a dance partner, Leith, and a great dancing club.  It brings me joy at a time when everything else is changing in my life. 

 

Leith, my dance partner is from California and he is traveling there this summer to visit family and train with his dance coaches.  My dream has always been to visit California and now, thanks to Leith and his family, my dream is coming true! And, it is going to be even better than I ever thought possible because I will be able to visit San Francisco and do what I love most,  dance!  Leith and I will be entering the International Grand Ball  and we will be competing with our 5 Latin dances: cha-cha, rumba, samba, paso doble, and jive.  

This is a double dream come true for me!

 

Leith's family has offered to cover most of my costs while in San Francisco, but I still need help to cover the cost of my flight, a couple of dance lessons to prepare for the competition, and competition fees.

Help of any amount is most welcome.

Thank you! 

I Love you!

Olya