Oleh Melynk volunteers as a Translator in our Language Services department. He comes to the Centre several times a week and spends hours verifying documents translated from Ukrainian into English. This is a particularly high-need service area, as Manitoba and the Immigrant Centre (IC) continue to welcome newcomers from Ukraine, who are seeking a safe haven from the conflict.

For newcomers, translating important documents such as birth certificates, academic transcripts, medical and legal documents into English is essential for a variety of reasons. Volunteers like Oleh, who himself is new to Canada, make it possible for our Centre to provide this service to our clients. 

What do you enjoy about volunteering?

The most important part of volunteering is of course helping people and meeting their needs. I’m really excited to see our happy customers, because our staff and volunteers were able to resolve their problems and provide them with all the information they needed.

What new skills have you gained as an IC volunteer?

The biggest skills I have learned are communication skills and relationship building skills. I communicate with customers a lot, especially when they need an interpreter. Also, I developed my office skills with Microsoft Word, filing, and attention to details. 

Why would you recommend volunteering at the IC?

I would recommend being a volunteer to anyone who wants to improve themselves, their skills, and improve their English.

What advice would you give to someone who is thinking about being a volunteer?

Don’t be afraid of something new and changes in your life, even though it feels like something you would never do. You will get a huge amount of knowledge and experience, especially now in 2024.