My name is Iryna Borbol, and I'm Ukrainian. Two years ago, I arrived in the U.S., not out of a great desire or dream, but because I needed a safe environment for myself and my children due to the ongoing war in Ukraine. When we first arrived, I thought our stay in America would be temporary, just a couple of months until we could return home. However, reality set in, and we had to start a new life here. It was emotionally, mentally and physically stressful. For the first year, I rented our apartment month by month, hoping we could go back soon. Now, two years later, we have adapted and found our place in the community and strive to be useful members of American society.
The transition wasn't easy. Everything was a challenge—from renting a house to enrolling my children in school and finding work. These tasks, which seem elementary now, were overwhelming at the time. The children viewed it as an adventure, but for adults, it was a constant source of stress. Over time, we found strength within ourselves, learned to navigate our new environment, asked for help and gradually adapted to our new life.
As a former English teacher in Ukraine, I faced the challenge of communicating effectively in American English. My British English wasn’t always understood, and I had to adjust. It was difficult to accept my new identity as a refugee. I struggled with the reality of being in a new country, without my usual support systems, and with the constant need to adapt to unfamiliar situations.
My children are my greatest motivation. They inspire me to overcome challenges and strive for success. Success, for me, is about making a difference and helping others. In Ukraine, I was always active and had multiple jobs. Here, I started from scratch, learning how to evaluate my qualifications, improve my English and find better opportunities for my family.
One of my proudest achievements is becoming a family coach at the Ukrainian American Community Center in Minneapolis. I help other refugees adapt, enroll their children in school, find housing and provide mental support. My experience allows me to guide others and help them avoid the challenges I faced.
Currently, I am working on organizing an English-speaking club for Ukrainians and improving services at the Ukrainian American Community Center. My long-term goals include supporting my children’s education and success, helping them become well-integrated members of society and continuing to assist other refugees.
To other refugees navigating their way in a new country, I offer this advice: Don’t be afraid, and believe in God. When things are tough, trust that there is a way forward. Don’t hesitate to open new doors and seek new opportunities. You have the strength to overcome everything.
