Success stories

From Ternopil to New Brunswick: A Journey of Resilience and Professional Growth

When Nataliia first began her career as an English teacher, her mission was clear: to inspire students and ignite a passion for learning. A native of Ternopil, Ukraine, she never imagined that her path would lead her to Canada, where she arrived in June 2022 after being forced to leave her home country due to the war.

Despite the sudden and challenging transition, Nataliia’s dedication to education remained unwavering. As a newcomer to Canada, she was determined to continue her passion for helping children develop critical thinking and communication skills. Fortunately, her qualifications were quickly recognized, and she was given the opportunity to collaborate with a team of highly skilled educators within the local school district. Today, Nataliia proudly serves as an English as an Additional Language (EAL) Tutor with Anglophone School District-East (ASD-E) under the Government of New Brunswick (GNB).

Nataliia’s determination to contribute meaningfully to her new community has driven her to pursue further professional development. She is currently working toward obtaining her New Brunswick teaching certificate, aiming to expand her impact on the students of the province.

At GNB, we are proud to support newcomers like Nataliia, who bring their talents, passion, and resilience to enrich our workforce. Her journey exemplifies how GNB’s initiatives foster a diverse, dynamic environment that empowers individuals to thrive. We look forward to celebrating more of Nataliia’s future achievements as she continues to grow with us and contribute to the success of New Brunswick’s youth.

GNB Mosaik is an employment pathway for newcomers seeking meaningful opportunities within the Government of New Brunswick. Learn more about joining our diverse team through the GNB Mosaik program here: GNB Mosaik.

Michael Oliveira and his wife fulfilled their dream of moving to Canada in March 2023 seeking a safer environment and a better quality of life to start their family. Originally from Goiania, Brazil, Michael brings 14 years of experience in the accounting and administrative field.

Upon their arrival, Michael quickly immersed himself in the Canadian landscape. He wasted no time, enrolling in the Intermediate Accounting I course at NBCC to familiarize himself with Canada's tax and accounting system. He also registered with GNB Mosaik, an initiative that supports newcomers pursuing a career in public service.

Michael’s proactive approach paid off when his resume caught the attention of the Department of Natural Resources and Energy Development (DNRED) and the Department of Agriculture, Aquaculture, and Fisheries (DAAF). Following a successful interview, Michael accepted a job offer, and began his journey as a Telecommunications Officer in May 2023. In his role, he manages landlines and cell services for over 600 users across the two departments. Michael also reviews billing and handles financial and administrative tasks, including preparing invoices, journal entries and reports.

Determined to contribute and grow within GNB, Michael is eager to learn and to gain more experience. He also recognizes the importance of bilingualism in New Brunswick and is seeking to learn French to further contribute to our community. Michael’s dedication represents the civil service values.

GNB is fortunate to be part of Michael’s Canadian dream. His success at DNRED/DAAF highlights the positive impact of GNB’s initiatives in supporting newcomers and fostering a diverse and dynamic workforce.

GNB Mosaik is an employment pathway for newcomers seeking meaningful employment opportunities within the Government of New Brunswick. At GNB, we make it easy for every New Brunswicker to Choose GNB. To learn more about joining the team through the GNB Mosaik program, visit Mosaik (www.gnb.ca/mosaik).

Svitlana Svizhevska has quite an impressive educational journey, holding Ph.D. in Pedagogical Sciences, Master’s degree in Mechanical Engineering (Aircraft Engines), and post-degree certificates in English Language and Psychology. Originally from Kyiv, Ukraine, she brings an extensive job experience and unique set of skills including 27 years of teaching experience and 15 years in public service. Throughout her career, she has been deeply involved in education and leadership roles within government institutions, advocating for quality education.

In 2022, Svitlana’s life took a dramatic turn due to the conflict in Ukraine, leading her to New Brunswick. Despite all the challenges she faced, she remained positive and eager to integrate to her new surroundings. Seeking opportunities in civil service, Svitlana registered with GNB Mosaik. Shortly after, she embarked on her journey as a GNB employee, initially joining the Finance and Treasury Board in an administrative role, and transitioning to Service New Brunswick’s Property Assessment Service. In her current role, she digitizes a variety of documents, from record books to maps, making archival information more accessible to the public.

Dedicated to continuous learning, she plans to enhance her language skills by learning French, recognizing its importance in New Brunswick. Over the next 3-5 years, Svitlana envisions herself advancing her career within GNB, making valuable contributions to her workplace and community. When asked how she feels with her current role, Svitlana happily says “It’s been wonderful as I’ve found myself in a welcoming environment surrounded by amazing coworkers always ready to lend a helping hand.

GNB actively seeks exceptional talents like Svitlana, who are committed to making a difference in the lives of New Brunswickers. We are privileged to have her as part of the organization, and stories like hers inspire and reinforce GNB's commitment to embracing talented newcomers and fostering a more diverse, inclusive, and supportive workplace.

GNB Mosaik is an employment pathway for newcomers seeking meaningful employment opportunities within the Government of New Brunswick. At GNB, we make it easy for every New Brunswicker to Choose GNB! For more information on how you can be part of our team through the GNB Mosaik program, click here: www.gnb.ca/mosaik