Olha Lytvynenko

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Educational Assistant

olytvynenko@westgatemennonite.org

Olha was born in Ukraine and discovered her faith at a young age. Gifted in languages, she began translating for mission teams in her hometown of Kryvyi Rih at 15 and later served as her church’s main interpreter. Coming from a family of educators, Olha followed her calling into teaching, earning a Bachelor’s degree in English and Literature and later a Master’s in Educational Management. Through her interpreting work, Olha connected with a Canadian couple dedicated to supporting foster and adoptive families. Their shared vision shaped her career: she completed extensive trauma-informed and trainer-development programs and served alongside social services in both Ukraine and Kyrgyzstan. From 2012–2015 her family lived in Kyrgyzstan, supporting local foster care initiatives and welcoming children in need into their home. Upon returning to Ukraine, they continued serving youth through CBN’s Orphan’s Promise program. Before moving to Canada, Olha lived in Kyiv, supporting her husband in his role as President of CBN Ukraine and working as a written interpreter and social media content manager for Christian projects. In 2022, she and two of her children arrived in Canada due to the war. Believing it was God’s grace that opened the door for her son Mark to attend Westgate, she was drawn to the school’s strong music program and nurturing community. While working in the nonprofit sector as an employment services supervisor, Olha completed her Canadian teaching certification in 2025. When she saw that Westgate was seeking an Educational Assistant, she applied—eager to return to education and support youth. Olha counts it a great honor to join the Westgate community while her son continues his journey in Grade 11.