More Than Varenyky: Turning Loss into New Beginnings

The war involving the heroine of this story began ten years ago. In 2014, Russia occupied our Ukrainian Crimea. Alla—that’s her name—witnessed that nightmare with her own eyes. She saw tanks roll in. She saw Ukrainian national flags being torn down. She saw fear and horror in people’s eyes. She saw loss and hopelessness. Her own personal losses in that brutal, senseless war began at that time.

Her family owned a house in Crimea, where they spent every summer together, resting and recharging. In winter, they returned to their hometown of Zaporizhzhia. Then, in a single moment, their lives changed dramatically. Staying in territory occupied by the enemy was unacceptable for many. People were giving up, uncertain how to live under those conditions. There was also the looming threat that the occupation had only just begun and that Russia would continue its invasion deeper into Ukraine.

But this was not the path Alla—affectionately called Alochka by her loved ones—chose. Despite the fear and uncertainty, she continued running her international travel agency and remained active in European forums and seminars. She also founded a women’s business club that offered support and training in various areas, including psychological assistance, financial literacy, fundraising, and arranging transportation for seriously ill children to medical facilities.

For nearly eight years, she poured her energy into growing this business, always moving forward, launching new projects, and achieving success. Not a minute was wasted. But then came February 24, 2022. It all began again. Once again, the Russian enemy stormed her homeland, laying claim to more Ukrainian land. They occupied parts of Zaporizhzhia and the surrounding region. The losses this time were even greater—not just of peace, business, and a normal way of life, but the looming threat of losing one’s life itself.

Alla understood she could no longer wait. She had to think of saving herself and her three children, then 9, 7, and 5 years old. She needed to find a safe place to live and work. Within five days, she made the decision to leave Ukraine. She posted a question on Facebook: Where can we go?

Grassroots volunteers shared some wonderful news: there was an opportunity to temporarily live with a Canadian host family. It was a deeply meaningful cultural exchange and a chance to understand Canadian life firsthand. Living with a host family helped them adapt more quickly, improve their English, and feel supported. Opportunities like this are rare—and incredibly important for those starting a new life from scratch. The gratitude we feel toward Grassroots volunteers for their care and attentiveness to the needs of newcomers cannot be overstated.

When Alla and her husband bought their plane tickets, they knew they were one-way. They understood life would never be the same. They might never see their home again.

For the first three months in Canada, they lived with a warm and generous host family. They were surrounded by love—not just from their hosts, but from neighbours as well. The community helped them settle, watched the children, and provided emotional support.

Alla knew she would have to start all over again. And so, with her trademark energy and determination, she did just that. She studied English for five hours a day, volunteered, and spent Sundays helping serve free breakfasts at a local charity.

Of course, to raise a family, you need income. Her husband found work at a factory. Alla started a new business from scratch. She rented two shelves in a store and began selling homemade Ukrainian food. Eventually, she opened a small café with just two tables. She signed a five-year lease—but soon realized she needed more space. Word spread quickly about the delicious food. The café became too small.

So she took a risk. Despite her lease, she rented a new, larger space and transformed it into a full restaurant with 12 tables. She hired four cooks—two Ukrainians and two Canadians—and installed an automated varenyky-making line to speed up production. Her products are now sold in stores across five neighbouring cities.

Alla’s story is a testament to her resilience, her willingness to take risks, and her tireless commitment to turning dreams into reality.

The restaurant offers both Ukrainian and Canadian cuisine. Guests include Ukrainians and Canadians alike. But it’s not just the food that draws them in—it’s the atmosphere. Many people come seeking not just a meal, but a kind word and a moment of comfort. Alla understands this. Even after 12-hour shifts, she always finds time and energy to speak kindly to her visitors. Her children sometimes help out—cleaning the dining hall after school.

On top of managing the restaurant, Alla continues to study English, attends a business school in London, has her business supported by the Canadian Ministry of Finance, is developing bilingual packaging for her products, and regularly speaks at public events to educate others about the war and the Ukrainian people’s resilience.

It may seem like everything is running smoothly now—but behind the scenes, there are daily challenges. Competition. Logistics. Delivery delays. Technical problems. With summer runnings, a refrigerated delivery vehicle is urgently needed.

Viktoriia Zaplava, the author of the article, says: “I am both amazed and inspired. Where does she find the strength—physical, emotional, and mental—to juggle so much? Alla balances her business, family, education, and activism—all while remaining a fierce advocate for her homeland. I am filled with pride for our people. All I can say is: Glory to Ukraine! Glory to the Heroes!”

If you’re curious to experience Alla’s passion firsthand, visit her restaurant and try the delicious handmade varenyky, borscht, holubtsi, and more. Every dish tells a story of resilience, heritage, and love. You can explore the menu at www.ukrainianpierogies.ca — and support a woman who turned tragedy into triumph, one meal at a time.

86 Frank St, Strathroy

Order at: 519-701-6861

Email: info@ukrainianperogies.ca