Storytime: Moving From Ukraine To Canada

A lot of people have been asking me about my nationality and how I came to Canada, so I thought I would do a video explaining how it all happened. I was born in Kiev, Ukraine right as the Soviet Union was breaking up and moved to Canada when I was 5 years old. It was a crazy whirlwind adventure and I wanted to share my story with you guys! Let me know what you think :)
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Alina
#immigrationstory #ukrainiangirl #canadiangirl

[@priscillaobeng-akrofi619]

Good for you to have such a kind step father who married your mum and included you in his family

[@karimaogden3875]

I think they are divorced now because in her most recent video, she goes to visit him in Saskatchewan after coming back to Canada from Eastern Europe.

[@larrysherk]

I am an old man, an American, and have never traveled very much, but I have watched a lot of history, and it breaks my heart to see what corruption and division are doing to Ukraine, the real birthplace of Russia in many ways. You have told a lovely story, full of heart and hope, and I hope people all over the world hear it. Maybe as the United States slides into really hard times we will have more compassion and understanding for what the Soviet Union, Russia, Belorus, and Ukraine have gone through. This video is a rather precious historical mini-document.

[@SoulOfRussia]

well said sir. You sound like a wise American "old man". I'm a Russian guy who was brought to US when I was 12. I am 32 now and I whole-heartendly pray that young men that think like you step forward soon.

[@gylliae]

I am an old American man, too. I totally agree with Larry here...

[@user-fs5sx2uh2h]

Larry. agreed. bonus video. kzbin.info/www/bejne/a32uY36dequYh8U

[@AlinaWorldJournal]

I am also from Ukraine. When I was 14 my family moved to Israel and in 2018 my husband and I moved to US... :) I am even not sure I will not move somewhere in the future :))) But I still remember and adore Ukraine. It's such a beautiful country. I visited in 2017. I wish there will be peace and prosperity in Ukraine someday...🙏🏻🤞🏻🕊

[@user-py7qw4vw1m]

Привіт з України

[@FLAME-U]

That is why u all must proud of being eastern European

[@Maplelust]

married at 14? .. maybe Ukraine is corrupt after all. 😖

[@AlinaWorldJournal]

@@Maplelust what?! Who was married at 14?! I moved to Israel with my parents and a dog. What are you talking about…🤷🏻‍♀️🤷🏻‍♀️🤷🏻‍♀️

[@Maplelust]

@@AlinaWorldJournal you married your dog?? good lord woman.

[@garymoffitt9043]

Alina,you would truly make an incredible best friend--so honest,transparent,wisdom beyond your years..

[@davidjohnston710]

Alina, I love your heart. Often, we get a picture of beautiful persons, like models and actresses, as being aloof and arrogant. It is so endearing to hear of your humble start with your amazement at modern conveniences (sliding store doors - what a hoot), and the beauty of having your own room (I nearly cried when I visualized the joy in that young girl, and yet the confusion, maybe even guilt). Having experienced a condition closer to poverty and inconvenience, I’m sure you’ll never take things for granted or develop an arrogance of entitlement. Nor dismiss people of humbler means. Makes you even more beautiful, beyond skin deep! Love to you.

[@imtiazaliimtiazali9441]

More than more than hear nice I love you

[@infoSeeker007]

Yes I totally agree this is what makes a beautiful person with a strong foundation and that is what a REAL MAN tries to find. WITH a strong foundation and family values the goodness of the people within that family will always come out strong and help the weak as it is embedded in their heart. Amen 😇👍⭐😃

[@WarrenPostma]

A great story. I am proud to be Canadian because no matter where you came from Canada is now a great home for us all. Thanks for sharing your heritage and your story. Canada is great because of its people, and your story, and your mom's, is part of that greatness.

[@fuadridha6088]

God bless you wherever you go.

[@jmj1852]

You are a very beautiful person inside and out... God bless you

[@han2926]

I also immigrated to Canada when I was 5 years old. Beautiful and interesting content! Thanks for sharing your story.

[@nataliiatitarenko4373]

I'm Ukrainian living in Canada since 2018. Ukraine has developed in recent years: education, medical system, restaurants & eateries, geographic location, entertainments and Weather! are much better than Canadian (compared to MB). The huge difference is when you moved in 90s (when it was a country influenced by Soviet Union), and nowadays.

[@roma7083]

So, why are you living in Canada?) And how did you moved? I want to do it as well...

[@harry12]

depends on where in ukraine, also depends on where in canada. certainly mb is ehhhh...

[@oua4397]

True but the difference is - in Ukraine you must be well off to have access to nice things , in Canada enough be Canadian to have normal life where most live nice . That is what differs Ukraine from richer counties . But yes - Ukraine has been doing much better , it’s good country , but now we have the war 💔

[@lanceroberthough1275]

Your depth of thought and emotion really comes across in your voice and your general expressiveness. You are appreciated.

[@AlinaMcleod]

Thank you so much

[@jessiesingh5618]

She is simply brilliant. I have seen thousands of KZbinr's but never seen anyone with so clear dialect. I would certainly like to use her vast geographical knowledge when I travel to Russia, its former federations and Central Asia etc. She is very forthcoming about her transition from her life in Ukraine to Canada. She is an inspiration and hope I will benefit from her knowledge while traveling to her birth place region.

[@SuperReznative]

Yes, her dialect is unbelievable and remarkable but English is an international language I have noticed even migrants from Aphganistan etc.speaking remarkable Canadian dialect. ..even to the point of being a bit suspect.

[@pgk1940]

Alina, I can relate to so many of the things you mention here. My family emigrated to Canada from Germany in 1952, when I was 12 years old. Because of globalization, the differences between the two countries aren't nearly what they were at the time, with many things now being commont to both countries, especially when it comes to consumer products, and even cultural events having crossed the ocean in both directions (Halloween, Valentines Day, Oktoberfest) but at the time, it was quite a culture shock, luckily, a very positive one. I guess I had inherited my dad's love for adventure, and when I heard that we might move to Canada, I couldn't have been happier. Of course I already knew a lot about this part of the world, having seen a lot of western movies, and even though most of them were in the U.S., being so close, Canada had to be very similar. I did manage to find a couple of books about Canada, and they were quite interesting to my 12 year old mind as well. I could hardly wait to go. In the end, it took almost 5 years from the time my father first announced, right after returning from being a P.O.W. that he did not intend to stay. Ok, so it wasn't quite like the western movies protrayed it, but it didn't take me long, to realize that wasn't a bad thing. After all, who wants to get shot or scalped? In those days, it was very common for the man of the house to go first, and, hopefully, get somewhat established, and that is what happened in our case. My father had managed to establish a cabinet shop in a town in northern Alberta, and my mother, older sister and I followed later that year, just before a very severe winter. I always thought that I was at a very good age for such a move. I was old enough to have very good recollections of the place where I had spent all my previous life, but also young enough to easily integrate. It also didn't hurt that I tended to be an outgoing person, as well as being anxious to experience for myself what I had read and seen. That also included the trip itself, at the time almost invariably by ship. We left on the 1st. of October, and arrived at our new home on the 18th., a trip that would take mere hours today. But even that was part of the adventure, as I had never seen a ship that size (tiny, by today's standards), let alone be on one. Even the 5 day trip by train was an eye opener as to the huge size of our new country. My language skills were pretty much nil, but my desire to learn was great. I was lucky enough to wind up with a terriffic teacher, and I think that she might have had a talk with the class, something I would not have been able to understand, because I had virtually no problem from the very beginning. Let's not forget that it was only 7 years since a devastating war, and some of my class mates had fathers who had fought in that war opposite the side my father was fighting on. In fact, on my first day in school I made a friend with whom I was best friends for the next 15 years, including best man at each other's wedding, until he got killed by a drunk driver. This teacher was also very instrumental in helping me learn English, and I wish I would've had the opportunity years later to thank her for all she had done for me. I can also relate to how you felt when you became a citizen. My parents became citizens very shortly after they qualified, and it was something that I could've done with them as a minor, but it was something that I wanted to do on my own, even if it meant having to wait a few years. Even though it was something that was important to me, I felt totally that I was already a Canadian, even without the papers, so I didn't attach any great emotions to it. That is, until it actually happened! When the moment came that I was sworn in, it suddenly became a very emotional moment, something completely unexpected. I guess I suddenly realized what it meant, to now truly be a citizen of the greatest country on earth. Even today, after so many years, I still feel a lot of gratitude that this country accepted me, something that to this day I don't believe they had any obligation to do. It's nice to hear from someone who has a lot of the same feelings that I had, and still does. It was also nice to see that you still honour your heritage, but are aware that this is your home. The way I see your story, with your attitude, you're an asset to this country, and I wish you all the very best for the future.

[@WillyAndRobby]

Wow. What a really interesting well written piece of writing. Thank you for sharing that.

[@vendela678]

Did you keep your German language alive?

[@pgk1940]

@@vendela678 My German is better now than it was 25 years ago. My last visit to Germany was in 1988, and since then, I'd had very little opportunity to speak German. After an unfortunate experience, when I wanted to show off my multilingualism and wound up like a stuttering fool, I decided to do something about that. Couldn't have picked a better time, as we'd hooked up to the Internet a couple of years or so before then. I got a couple of e-mail penpals, spent time on news groups and read a lot of German articles and news. The few times I met people with a German accent, I would practice speaking it, even though it seems that it was not always welcomed. I still find it easier to write than to speak it. I rarely have the opportunity to speak it, other than occasioually speaking to a couple of friends or relatives on Skype. My fluency is not what I would like it to be, but my vocabulary has expanded a lot. I was 12 when I left, so my vocabulary was limited to what that of the average 12 year old would be. I correspond by e-mail with several people, as well as belong to a couple of chat rooms. I ideally I should take an extended trip there, something I never had the time to do for so many years while I was still working.

[@lenaandreeva5030]

Thank you for your life story, it was unforgettable.

[@mohanramasamy-so4lv]

Oh....my god....you not only inherited "adventure"from your dad but seems like "patience"too .....to pen up such a thoughtful....mind stirring reply....well done sir👍

[@erinmarie4127]

I don't have a story, but I loved listening to yours! Your wreath looks so pretty on you! I was born in the US and I've grown to appreciate my privilege, especially after studying world history. I'm insanely lucky to have this life!

[@AlinaMcleod]

haha thanks, Erin! It's a good reminder for all of us. It's so easy with the media to feel like if we're not living this hollywood type of lifestyle that we're somehow missing out on life (which is ridiculous), but in reality they just want to sell us a bunch of stuff we don't need lol. Things might not be perfect, but we've got it pretty great.

[@marioformosa4259]

Most Europeans count themselves lucky not to have been born in the U.S.

[@SuperReznative]

​@@marioformosa4259 U.S.A. brainwashed through public schools and pop - culture... away from Bible and Godly values.

[@xxxnamkhaxxx]

Beautifully narrated! Thank you for sharing your story with us. I think my favourite part of the story was about the shopping carts or Покупательские тележки.

[@jackculp9776]

Great story, very moving. I agree that you are blessed to have such wonderful parents.

[@richter0139]

I really enjoyed your story I think its unique when you talked about your memories when your first came to Canada thank you for sharing.

[@amit-investinyourself-idea6010]

Your story is very touching my family moved to the USA when I was 12 I totally understand what you had to go thru because I went thru almost the same thing.

[@Zlata1Z]

God bless Gordon for making you and your Mom feel at home, loved and cared for.

[@jameskoralewski296]

You are the most interesting storyteller of your life. I love to hear you tell about the experiences of your life and movement from Ukraine to Canada. I am in awe of you and of your intelligence.

[@stephanteuscher6583]

Wow! Very impressive story. I have experienced the sixties in Germany as a child and I have been to some poor countries (like Kenia, Tibet, Nepal, some carribean states and so on) since then, so I can roughly imagine what you and your family were going through. It's always good to never forget this.

[@shenglin3904]

wow, great story. its crazy how many similarities i see with your story going from ukraine to canada and mine going from taiwan to the u.s even though the situations and cultures are so different.

[@michaellittler2617]

You tell your story very well without pretentiousness or pretend-humility. Your travel vlogs are informative and fun to watch. Thank you for being so entertaining.

[@differentwave3693]

God Bless you - I just watched this video - came across by chance while searching a topic on Y-Tube. You nailed it - " We take things for granted, we do not realize how hard it is to survive day - day for some people around this planet". Those who are born into this society don't have a clue what a naturalized citizen feels when he/she finally obtains citizenship. But @ the same time, this world has changed so much since the late 80's and early 90's. Today, all what we thought was better than were we came from has been partially destroyed and it will take a while to rebuild it - , mainly respect and being humble. Anyways, Best wishes to you and your family and Thank you for sharing your thoughts.

[@yurilemming4130]

I too learned English in 1952 at state school age of 6, we only spoke Russian at home although my father spoke English well as he had 12 years education at his school in Estonia, mum was Belarusian, we left europe to Australia 1949 & then Australia was a poor country. I too feel Russian roots & still understand & speak Russian although rarely practice it, am 73yo.

[@olkodolko]

the thing is - you are 74y.o. and comment youtube videos. Guess how many people your age can (want and have access to and able to) use internet in Russia)

[@yurilemming4130]

olko dolko I've been to Belarus, I understand that communism set back the countries for a century. politics plays a big part in this regress, west hates Russia & Russia responds by closing itself off, today the attack with sanctions continues so its not entirely Russias fault, Ukraine is also proving western integration is a myth & very destructive. Australia was also a poor country in the 50s today its wealth is from selling to Chinese market, we are a lucky country.

[@sonjak8265]

@@olkodolko Many Russians use internet.

[@olkodolko]

@@sonjak8265 are you serious?

[@olkodolko]

Keyrings Locks how is it opposite from what I’ve said? Guess what average life expectancy in Russia? It’s between 72-73. Wi-fi in the grave or what? Not to mention male life expectancy a far from 70. Leave alone the whole technology ignorance.

[@plymouthranch7143]

The red lipstick works.

[@aldrickbanks3455]

grandma wrapping up kid with many layers, so touching.

[@curiousfellow9341]

I was introduced to your channel through a video YT recommended to me about The Ukraine people don’t normally see. That was interesting, but it is the videos about your family that I enjoy the most. You are a wonderful, positive person and your appreciation for your family is beautiful. Thank you for sharing your story.

[@AlinaMcleod]

Thank you so much!

[@paulantoniuk3503]

I think it’s amazing that people move from their home country, and go to another one. I always talk to my coworkers about why they chose Canada. I work with many Filipinos, and some are nurses, they are just happy to be in Canada. And we are just working at Costco.

[@bonsummers2657]

Make the Phillipines great!

[@dakotadownham3801]

I’m born and raised in Edmonton, Alberta but my older relatives are all from Kiev and I’m going there next month for the first time. Really excited to visit Kiev and see where my family came from, I watched some of your videos and it looks like a beautiful place :)

[@AlinaMcleod]

Aw that's lovely! I hope you have an amazing time. Make sure you try all the food! So delicious and nowhere in Canada can I find anything quite like it.

[@bonnyguillen1424]

Loved your story and the way you told how difficult times your family passed through and you are still fighting to be a better person. Something I see in you is that you are grateful because of the opportunity the live and your dad gave to you. I know what you are talking about cause I am an immigrant like you. Keep going on and I say Hello from Puerto Rico 🇵🇷

[@khalidalharbi1465]

what an inspirational story Alina .. Blesses for you and your lovely parents

[@hiroueda2227]

such a wonderful story! thank you for sharing it with us...our story, father being a professional wrestler not finding frequent work in japan, moved over here to the states to find more steady work. moving from place to place, finally settled in florida. i, too, was about 4-5 when we migrated here.

[@AlinaMcleod]

That's super interesting! Did you find a pretty intense culture shock or it wasn't too bad?

[@hiroueda2227]

Alina Mcleod: its was a shock...o didn't speak a word of English... let alone even know the alphabet... lol

[@SM-vu7mg]

your immigration story reminded me mine, I came from Ukraine too but to USA and you are so right about many things, I wish you all the best and subscribed for your channel

[@AlinaMcleod]

Thank you!

[@1964themartins]

Thank you for sharing your story time! That's awesome Alina. All the best.

[@vladrazym9955]

Thats one of the most moving and honest videos which I saw on youtube so far. Thank you

[@shaunkirby273]

People like you make Canada proud, glad you like it here Alina 🇨🇦

[@devashish01]

This video cleared my all doubts n questions . Came to know all about you. Very interesting video. I loved it. You are my favorite KZbinr 💖😊 so down to earth n perfect.

[@AlinaMcleod]

Thank you so much :)

[@P.Whitestrake]

It's very amazing to have such variety of cultures & heritage in you. Love & cherish them all. Thanks for sharing your story, Alina!

[@AlinaMcleod]

Thank you :)

[@P.Whitestrake]

Alina Mcleod You're welcome!

[@genechicago4806]

I enjoy hearing your story, in particular hearing about the automatic doors, because I had a similar reaction when I arrived here in Chicago back when I was 10 years old. I come from a small Mexican town so there were a lot of new experiences that most native Chicagoans don't even notice. I am also very grateful for the sacrifices that my parents went through in order to provide my siblings and me with better opportunities to succeed. I hope your channel continues to grow.

[@liliiatarakanova4084]

Hi, Alina! My name is Lilya and i'm Ukrainian but i'm living in Belgium. just watched yr story, yes that's the truth, I remembered all these things from 1991, was so difficult!

[@jean-claudegravel3145]

enchanté Lilya de Belgique ! Canada est similiaire à la Russie en températures en été et en hiver , on a en moyenne 3m de neige au Québec

[@bennythepooh4905]

@@jean-claudegravel3145 c’est bien pire en Saskatchewan, les températures peuvent atteindre -30 C pendant des semaines.

[@christianmagno984]

Your Russian.

[@sherryedwards695]

Hi Alina. Great story. My great grandparents immigrated from Ukraine to Canada in early 1900's and settled on the prairies of Western Canada. My cousin still owns the farm in Gronlid which belonged to my grandparents. It is also where I grew up before moving to Toronto. I have cousins in Kinistino. Dianne Sereda. I'm not sure if her daughter Leeanne still lives there. You could ask your dad but when I lived in Gronlid there were commercials for a pancake breakfast. "Let's all go to Kinistino - Let's all take in the show. Pancakes from early in the morn to late in the day.". One year John Deifenbaker was there. My Baba's side was from a city called Zbahbas. Guido's family was from Biltze Zholti near Ternopil. When they were there it was called Ukraine (Western Ukraine). Before then it was Galacia and before then it was Ruthenia. So actually my family doesn't really have a homeland except Canada. Ask your dad if he has a real old $1.00 Bill. On the back is a grain elevator. It's been said that this is Gronlid. During the summer when it is beautiful outtake a drive from Melfort to the North Saskatchewan river on the #6 highway. You will go through Gronlid and be able to see my old school. Driving north for 4 miles on the right hand side before you get to a cemetery was my grandparents land. My cousin and aunt and uncle still live there. The river is beautiful and make sure to pack a picnic basket.

[@SuperReznative]

Thanks for the background . about Gronlid .I know where that is and few farmers around that area.. You would know of Mezzepa road.. towards Verrigan Russian Dukabor ( spirit wrestlers ) heritage village .

[@TheSlickidiot]

My family started moving to Canada from the Galicia(Western Ukraine) 1910. My great Grandfather Moved to Canada from Ternopil, Ukraine in 1939. The last family member to move here was in 1974. We still have have extended family there

[@ScottJWaldron]

Great video! I can really see the emotion in your face as you describe things.

[@AlinaMcleod]

Glad it came across :)

[@zhenruichen]

what a beautiful Ukraine girl!

[@bonsummers2657]

Make beautiful Chinese girls with Chinese women!

[@lieutenantbigz938]

Ukrainian girls are always beautiful😍😍😍

[@mustafaakkoclar1272]

@@rockroll2787 they are same nation bro :D its like "she is not english girl he is walles girl"

[@mustafaakkoclar1272]

@@rockroll2787 geneticly yes, we barelly same u, so hard seperate us, but culturally we totally different

[@mustafaakkoclar1272]

@@rockroll2787 no, they believes same religion and sect, also they understant each other, because their langague is so similar

[@adelebeid2736]

Just loved it (: Keep it up, Alina. I'm an expat myself in Spain; 30 years now; Egyptian -born.

[@AlinaMcleod]

Thanks, Adel!

[@SuperReznative]

​@@AlinaMcleodthese from 6 years ago.. where ) how are you now

[@surething1656]

I love your videos. This video was very special, your positive thankful attitude it’s very refreshing !!!! Thank you for sharing your story!

[@dl662]

Thanks for sharing such a great story! As an immigrant myself, I found it incredible for you to be such grateful even to this day. Most ppl I know who came at a younger age have fully embraced their canadian identity and completely thrown away their past. Your video reminded me of one of my best friends in college who's living in trt too nowadays with the same russian/ukrainian/canadian background, who's always told me how grateful he was being able to live and study in canada. Was great to came across ur channel and thanks for reminding me how lucky I am right when I'm about to move back from the states lol, now feeling blessed n grateful :)

[@AlinaMcleod]

Aw that's so kind of you to say! Thank you! No matter whether we immigrated here or have been here all our lives I think it's so important to always appreciate what we have. All the best with the move!

[@ranjltono5293]

Your interview with your Mom was interesting. What she said was true.I like it.

[@user-qg6fn4bo4z]

I'm Ukrainian living in Ukraine and i agree with you, it's absolutely true. Life in here is different, more difficult i guess. It was really hard and dengerous time after the collapse of the USSR...

[@IftikharAhmed-nm3vc]

Good

[@Tracey-Nichole]

Thanks for sharing. This is a lovely romantic story that also depicts a mother’s strength!

[@PROPHET0214]

Hi Alina! That;s very amazing story and frankly, really enjoyed it. The experienced I had regarding family migration during my childhood at very young age of 5 was far more backward than the place of your step-dad. But, the memories I had experienced was full of excitement and adventures. Just couldn't imagine seeing all sorts of wild animals and marine creatures for the first time.

[@YOUSSEF942]

Haha Awesome story Alina! :) Keep'm coming :D

[@AlinaMcleod]

Thanks so much, Youssef! :)

[@josephkiknadze3121]

very beauty girl

[@BlueFire573]

Very similar story to mine - my mother and I moved from Russia to rural Scotland when I was 5 years old in 2000, to live with my adoptive father, you're spot on with all those feelings about going to preschool etc just brought it all back to me! Lovely to hear such a similar story to my own Thank you!

[@steve94044]

God Bless you Alina and your wonderful family. Please be safe and healthy.

[@lachlaninglis9568]

Alina 😊 i am from Melbourne Australia. I have been to Kyiv recently. Thanks for your story, i want to say that you are truly a beautiful person, i love your attitude and your honesty 🖤😁

[@RIDGELAKE101]

Very proud of our multi heritage country 🙏🇨🇦

[@dancingprincessmj]

Beautiful crown!! Alina I just started following your channel and I love it!! You're my new favorite KZbinr. Thank you so much for this video, a friend of mine (he's our age 1991) and my grandpa are from Ukraine so I've often wondered what they may have experienced. Like yourself I'm very into travel and culture so I'm excited to see your future videos :-) :-)

[@AlinaMcleod]

Thank you so much, Marissa! I also saw your email and will try and reply in the next couple of days. All the best xx

[@dancingprincessmj]

Alina Mcleod thank you so much!!❤️ I truly appreciate that. No rush of course as you must be busy like me too lol. I'm so glad we can correspond.

[@dancingprincessmj]

Alina Mcleod btw I forgot to ask what brand is the red lipstick you're wearing in this video?

[@AlinaMcleod]

Absolutely. It's actually an old shade that I love from Rimmel; Lasting Longwear by Kate Moss (Shade 01)

[@dancingprincessmj]

Alina Mcleod Cool I have that shade! Yay! Thanks!

[@jan22150]

I know what you are talking about , when you explained that it was hard for you to get acquainted with a new country and a new language. I would like to tell you my story if you don't mind. I am an old man now, but I was born in Indonesia just before WW2. Went thru the war years in a Japanese prison because we were Dutch. Then after the war we went to the Netherlands. A country I have never been before. Stayed there for 7 years and then emigrated to the US. I have been here 60 years now and never regret it. I am so blessed with what I have . Thank you for listening to my story.

[@sarwarmehedi]

@Alina, this video is a gem. I started to follow all your travel videos for a few months and they are great. But your personal stories make you more Humane and relatable. I can relate some of the stuffs that you experienced as I also immigrated to USA from Bangladesh which has even more different culture. "Things are more difficult get by in other places which we taken for granted in US/Canada" -- thats a huge wisdom right there and I can totally relate. Btw, your story telling is pretty good too.

[@bobjackson4720]

I was born in England a few years after WW2 when food was still rationed, bomb craters were common and everyone was still wartime slim. As a young man I travelled overland to Australia and worked in the mines. Then in the mines in Papua New Guinea. Finally settling in Australia a couple of years before you were born. I've had a good life in Australia, it's like a South Pacific Canada. I have travelled lots and though oldish am still keen on adventures. Going to China soon. You have a great attitude I hope you never loose it.

[@AlinaMcleod]

Wow, that is some intense and eye opening life experience! Australia is an amazing country and I hope you get to do lots of travelling around!

[@bobjackson4720]

In the last couple of years I have been to Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, France, Serbia and Croatia, all good places. (I have a lady who also likes travel).

[@anonlilly1699]

Fuck. China

[@VedantMishra55]

@@anonlilly1699 chill that comment was made 2 years ago

[@anonlilly1699]

Vedant Mishra still. fuck china

[@ivettemckenzie1646]

Fantastic story. I can totally relate. I was born in the US but I moved to Mexico the day I was born. About age 5, we moved to the US. It was a hard adjustment because even though they're neighbors, they are very different countries. Totally different worlds. I remember crying all day the first time I went to school. I didn't understand anything and there was no one to talk to. I remember that day perfectly. During the summers, we would live in Mexico but during the school year, we stayed in the US. I'm 26 now and I plan to move to Germany. I know it's a totally different world but I'm stoked to live something new. Plus, the scenic views are remarkable. I learned the language at age 16. I know it would be a big adjustment but it won't be impossible. I've done it before and I know I can do it again!

[@AlinaMcleod]

Oh wow, that's incredible!!! Definitely two different worlds to live in growing up and now moving to Germany? I love it. Even though it can have its challenges when we are young, I think it's so great to have that contrast experience of culture and will definitely continue to serve you in the future. I hope you have an amazing time in Germany!

[@ivettemckenzie1646]

Alina Mcleod Thank you!

[@mikedem755]

I liked this video and it gave me insight at to what my grandparents and great grandparents went through in coming to America. Thanks and keep up the good work.

[@alwaysabob8962]

Really enjoyed hearing your story!

[@legoworld7830]

Ой боже як це круто ( ти супер гарна ) виликий привіт з України !!!! 😄😄👍👍👍💜

[@shinnith]

My whole family is Ukrainian but I didn't grow up with it as a second (or first) language in my home as my mom and Gran did. So when I speak the little ukrainian I know, they laugh so hard at my accent. I really loved your video- I mostly research early century immigration from the Ukraine, so it is interesting to hear from someone my age who has come from there!

[@Scriptank]

One of the best videos I've seen. Very interesting. Thank you so much for sharing. ❤

[@markkilyk4430]

Love your background story. Great job, Alina!! Дуже прекрасне відео! :)

[@AlinaMcleod]

Dyakuyu!

[@christo7105]

Not easy to move from 1000 years old Kiev to rural Canada area.

[@Roman-737]

Hi Alina, you are such a gorgeous young woman and I really enjoyed listening your story since it's so similar to mine =). I was born 1989 in Saratov, Russia, then moved to Western Germany (very close to France) in 1995 at the age of 5. Unfortunately, I too have never met my biological father and moved to Germany with my mother alone. For her it was a struggle in the first years. Working, growing up kids and earning money for living at the same time. I too had these language barriers in playschool. Now, 25 years later I speak better German than Russian ;-) I have a sister, already born here in Germany. She speaks Russian, but with a strong German accent.

[@ctafrance]

What an amazing journey, and one which gives you a highly enriched perspective on contemporary life. The fact that you are extraordinarily beautiful is an added plus!

[@kryptophiliac4994]

I love your videos, very informative and easy to watch, you speak well and your a doll.

[@tonysklai]

God bless Canada! My cousin moved to Canada from British Hong Kong for many years ago. He had been being a Governor-General of British Columbia a few years later.

[@DTall-oz7hs]

That is why BC is so corrupt on a provincial government scale !

[@bargainbassist]

@@DTall-oz7hs It’s not the HK immigrants. The corrupt ones you allude to are the ultra-wealthy Chinese who have made their ill-gotten fortunes from criminal enterprise while living in Mainland China, then emigrate to Canada, settling in BC. The Cantonese from HK have been in BC for, like, forever; my mother grew up in Vancouver in the 1930’s and they were there at that time, and there was no major political corruption problem. The corruption you speak of is more recent, with the arrivals of these ultra-wealthy from Mainland.

[@HeringCheng]

Thanks for the genuine and warm storytelling. I emigrated to Canada from Bolivia, and the most memorable part of the culture shock was my first time seeing toilet seat covers in the bathroom stalls in Toronto's Lester Pearson airport.

[@AlinaMcleod]

hahaha that's amazing. I had a similar experience when first going to Tokyo and the toilet started talking to me.

[@ludakapkina9308]

Good luck with your life. I like that you do not forget the country where you were born.

[@georgejames819]

Thanks for your own story and video Alina! From a fellow Canadian!! :) Very nice to hear about Ukraine in your videos.

[@AlinaMcleod]

Glad you liked them!

[@arturaspaulauskas7654]

☺❤💞Labas Alina.Atrodai super labai grazi.Seima brangiausias turtas.Tevai vaikams linki kad geriau giventume.Isvikstame kazkur toli nepajuntame kaip bega metai.Paskui as sau sakau gaila galejau skirti daugiau laiko.Dabar kai ju netekau labai gailiuos.Na tu turi savo gyvenima sprendi kas tau geriausia.Esi grazi tavo gyvenimas pries akis.Linkiu kad butum laiminga.Aciu kad pasidalinai☺❤👍🌹🌹🌹💞

[@lieutenantbigz938]

Tikėkimės jinai suprato :D

[@thearkpearl]

As a Venezuelan citizen living right now in the Netherlands (since last 3 years), I'd say that effectively is not easy be an immigrant... but once in a while, I get videos as this one, that makes me think that if I get a family (blessing) in the future, maybe they'll tell someday such beautiful words as you said: "I thank you Mom from the bottom of my heart"... And btw, I'm not exaggerating Alina when I say that I really believe that your voice, your beauty and your way of telling us your histories can just blossom from a truly charming woman's soul. Regards from the Netherlands!

[@AlinaMcleod]

Aw thank you so much. Good for you for having the courage to take a chance with life and I do hope you have that beautiful family to share it with. All the best

[@sanjeevdhingra2327]

I have seen this video of yours from beginning to end. I was pleasantly surprised that you have not cried anywhere in this entire video.

[@jsndy7365]

Thank you very much Alina for sharing your immigration background with us. I like your story very much and Wish you the best in Canada.

[@Svetlana-says-it-as-it-is.]

I found your Chanel through your video explore Kiev like a local (I think) because I am going to Ukraine on the 3rd of August so I am currently watching a lot of similar videos. Thank you for sharing your story I am always interested in stories about the Soviet Union and post Communism as well.❤️ I too have Russian heritage from a long time when it was called Russian Empire I am not really considered any of those things by today's standards but still proud to have it in my DNA. I came from Portugal and moved to London in 2004 because at the time I felt that my life had no prospects of improvement but I am fine now.

[@AlinaMcleod]

Aw thank you for sharing, Ana. I'm glad you're doing well now and you made such a leap to look for something different. I hope you have a great time in Ukraine!

[@TheSteveRobinson]

Glad to see you've made a new life here in Canada. If our government had any sense, they would allow numbers of Ukrainians into Canada since the trouble began in 2014.

[@mashadasha]

Canada and all white countries don't help other white people out. Proof is in the numbers and statistics.

[@frivolouselm7529]

And for russians too. Not all people in Russia support Putin's aggressive policy in East of Ukraine. There is a dark dreadful time in Russia today. It is too dangerous to express your opinion openly. I would like to move to other place to live.

[@yurilemming4130]

Dmitriy Kim liar.

[@jean-claudegravel3145]

@@mashadashai agree i' m a native guy and réservations system realy sucks ! Tap safe drinking water is not safe for us and we' re not ''human'' ! kzbin.info/www/bejne/b3aTZ6ONqah7f8k

[@Hero.Lone-Wolf]

Ukraine is part of Russia and Russia is part of Ukraine ! it always has been and it always will be !!! ... these trouble times will end eventually and everything will be back to normal in future ... !!!

[@leandrodossantos4559]

Your sensibility and clarity about the differences among Ukraine (3rd world in general) and Canada is great. Congrats, keep doing it and be safe! Friendly hello from Brazil!

[@Hiker1175]

I like the way you express your thoughts, impressions and perspectives about life in Ukraine and the transition you experienced moving from Ukraine to Canada as a little girl. You're right, we are fortunate and we do tend to take so many things for granted. My girlfriend lives in Ukraine and i try to imagine just how her life will change and how it will impact her when she comes to the US. Good insight and thanks for sharing your experience and impressions.

[@AlinaMcleod]

Thank you for the support and I wish you and your girlfriend all the best with joining cultures!

[@maverickgood5204]

Loved.the story! I live in Ukraine :)

[@user-si9wu2lf7y]

Ни фига не понимаю, но не могу оторваться от этой красоты....

[@soldervas]

На десктопе субтитры с переводом.

[@user-oq4uj9vf6j]

@@soldervas Тогда придется от красоты оторваться.

[@nr3800773]

+1

[@anatoliiseniuk]

Shame on you, @Калинов мост!

[@romaniaforever7103]

Это ненадолго, скоро все постареют

[@carloquinn3470]

Interesting story. You become what you are from life experiences. As a Soldier it never ceases to amaze me on my encounters of life on this planet. Stay safe and continue to experience life no matter what it brings or percived as bad or good, natural or unnatural.

[@nathanneeb9657]

Just found your channel this is the third video I’ve seen and it was mesmerizing I couldn’t take my eyes away the entire time it was a wonderful beautiful story I would love to see this video be taught to younger kids as you are a role model of who to aspire to be

[@jeameric]

Wonderful story! I'm french and when I was a child, a french football team was playing in Dniepropetrovsk for the european championship. At this time it was still USSR and we were worried that the team never came back but, they all returned. I will be visiting Kiev in October and as a child, I wouldn't have believed that someday I will be in Ukraine.

[@AlinaMcleod]

haha that's awesome. Have a great time there!

[@jeameric]

Thank you!

[@mboss1973]

Man, you speak utter nonsense, apparently Western propaganda then brainwashed you 100%.

[@greggreed3840]

I remember so clearly when my now 21 year old son Artem, his little brother now 12 and of course their mom came to the US from Sumy, Ukraine. It was a huge change for them. First stop after landing was a Walmart superstore in the Detroit area because we needed a car seat for Seva. Lena and Artem’s expressions were pretty much like they had landed on Mars.

[@marioformosa4259]

I would have thought that Detroit would look like Mars to any European

[@greggreed3840]

@@marioformosa4259 since we landed at Detroit Metro at night of course you could see lights to the horizon. Lena looking amazed asked “Is this all one city?” I had to explain how large cities and suburbs tend to run together in the US.

[@christopherhoffer2393]

You are always so thoughtful and articulate. I look forward to your videos. My grandfather emigrated from what is now Ukraine as an infant to Canada. And later to the US. I marvel at the resolve that it must have taken my great grandfather to leave the German colonies in Russia, and move his young family to Canada. You actually lived that, and saw firsthand the resolve of your mother to make that move. That is really something. Thanks for making the video.

[@AlinaMcleod]

Thank you so much and for sharing your story. It really is such a huge act of faith and courage. I am forever grateful.

[@artbashmakian9217]

Loved the story. I can relate.

[@1966Gleb]

Красота неземная!

[@serjvw1301]

Нашу дочку мы привезли в Канаде когда ей было почти 2 года. Сейчас ей почти 12. Всегда думал что мы будем здесь делать и как мы будем реализоваться. Но по прошествии времени все встается на свои места. Смотрю на твою историю, нахожу много общего с нашей истории. Видимо все мы через это проходим. Респект твоему отцу потому что вырастил такую мужественую дочку ( трип в Приднестровье). Спасибо тебе за видео про Кишинёв! Удачи!

[@munirahmednadeem663]

Love to hear your story,It was really history documentary.❤

[@kelvinbridglal4879]

Very touching story but interesting. Keep up the good work and always a fan.

[@taterboy9601]

I remember back in the 80's when the Russian hockey team would come to Canada to play. The Russian people would go into the stores and buy silk socks because they could not buy them back home because they never had them. Thanks for sharing your story!!

[@marioformosa4259]

I bet there are no silk socks made in Canada

[@taterboy9601]

@@marioformosa4259 Not since greedy company owners moved factories to china for slave labor !

[@AntonShekera]

Спасибо за хорошую и интересную историю)

[@mubarak4886]

Thank you for sharing your story!

[@jerryhorn5866]

You are very refreshing, young lady. Very well spoken and a wonderful personality. I subscribed today and look forward to viewing more. Many thanks from Yakima, Washington, USA