Irena Shust-Dankowycz

BIO

Irena (Eerka) Shust-Dankowycz is a long-standing member of the Ukrainian Youth Association of Canada (UYA), where she has held many roles on local, national and international levels over the last 40 years. Eerka has organized, coordinated, lead and managed many programs and projects within the organization. Her focus has always been working directly with young people.

Eerka developed her passion for working in the Ukrainian community as a young girl by watching her immigrant parents build up the Ukrainian-Canadian community through their volunteerism. The Ukrainian church and cultural centre, were her and her brother’s second homes growing up in Toronto. Eerka was raised believing helping one’s community is an integral part of daily life.

Eerka holds a Bachelor of Education from the University of Toronto and has been working as mathematics teacher at the secondary level for almost three decades. Drawing on her experience as an educator, she creates and supports exciting and engaging youth initiatives which include summer camps, leadership seminars, counselor-in-training camps, student exchanges and other educational experiences for UYA members across Canada. She has been successful in helping youth gain a better understanding of their Ukrainian heritage and identity and realize their potential as contributing members of Canadian society. Her easy-going and fun-loving nature, make her an inspiration and mentor to many young people. Her peers appreciate and admire her steadfast commitment to youth and to the Ukrainian community.