Hello friends, neighbours, and kind supporters,

My name is Emma Abbott, and I’m a high school teacher in the Ottawa region. I’m establishing this GoFundMe account on behalf of a graduating student, Liza, an exceptional young woman from the Kyiv region of Ukraine, who needs our help to pursue her post-secondary education here in Canada.

Liza came to Canada almost three years ago on a study permit, seeking safety and a future full of promise. At the age of 15, Liza left behind her parents and three siblings. The war in Ukraine continues today. Missile and drone attacks target critical infrastructure and civilian areas, particularly in regions like Kyiv. Many communities experience regular air raid sirens, power outages, and damage to homes, hospitals, and schools.

Millions of Ukrainians remain displaced, and those who have stayed often live under constant stress, uncertainty, and fear for their safety and that of their loved ones. This is the case for Liza’s family. The resilience of ordinary citizens is remarkable, but life remains difficult—marked by loss, interrupted education, limited resources, and the daily emotional toll of a war that shows no clear end in sight.

Liza has shown unwavering determination and resilience—navigating life in a new country while living with unimaginable stress and fear for her family and friends. Liza has attended South Carleton High School, taking rigorous university-preparation courses while maintaining high marks across a demanding schedule and also working to save for her education and make ends meet.

Liza has been living with a supportive host family in Stittsville, but they are no longer able to continue housing her as she moves on to college. Liza has accepted a Bachelor of Commerce program at Algonquin College, and paid a $2,000 deposit with her own earnings. However, there is a significant barrier ahead: as an international student, Liza is required to pay $23,000 per year in tuition alone. She does not qualify for OSAP and cannot access a student loan because she does not have permanent residency or a co-signer in Canada.

Despite these obstacles, Liza is determined to stay, study, and eventually build a life in the country that has welcomed her with safety and hope. Her dream is to build a stable, peaceful life in Canada, and eventually give back to the community as a future business professional and active citizen. Liza is not just surviving - she is pushing forward with courage, grace, and gratitude.

How You Can Help:

We are raising funds to help Liza cover the cost of her first year of tuition so she can remain in Canada and begin her studies this fall.

Your donation will help pay for:

Tuition and fees at Algonquin College

Books and supplies for school

Liza will continue to work part-time while attending school, but she cannot reach this goal alone.

Please consider donating or sharing this campaign. Every contribution—no matter how small—will bring her closer to a secure and stable future in Canada.

On behalf of Liza and all of us who believe in her—thank you for your generosity and support.

With gratitude,

Emma