Dana Kapoostinsky volunteers as a One-on-One English Tutor.  She began an initial three-month commitment in February 2021, but almost a year later, Dana continues to be a dedicated volunteer, who is passionate about helping the newcomers with whom she is paired.

After completing extra courses to get her certification to teach EAL (English as an Additional Language) for her Bachelor of Education Degree, Dana was looking for opportunities to get more experience in this area.  When she came across a position listing for English Conversation Group Facilitators at the Immigrant Centre while browsing the Volunteer Manitoba website, she decided to apply, and although she was interested in teaching a group class, she agreed to volunteer as a One-on-One Tutor. 

Working with newcomers is not a new experience for Dana, as she volunteered previously with the Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization of Manitoba. Her own family immigrated to Canada many years ago, and she had to learn English and adapt to a different culture, so she knows firsthand the challenges of learning a new language. “I feel inspired by my students. My student is 62 years old, and was an engineer back home. He is always busy, but he still makes time and is still dedicated to learning. I love to see that drive.”

Dana is currently completing her teaching practicum to become a senior years teacher, and getting one-on-one practice alongside her classroom practicum, has been a really helpful experience.  “There are definitely a lot of benefits to volunteering: getting experience, making connections. There is so much that I learn from my students, and they are keen to learn about Canada, so there’s always more to talk about.”