Ukrainian Canadian CongressUCC Ontario Awards 2026
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Exemplary Youth

Aleksa Gobosz

Алекса ГобошMississauga

Aleksa Gobosz exemplifies an outstanding commitment to community service through her lifelong dedication to preserving, promoting, and strengthening Ukrainian culture within Canada. Since childhood, she has actively volunteered her time and talents to the Canadian-Ukrainian community through music, dance, education, cultural events, humanitarian initiatives, and youth mentorship. Her unwavering commitment is demonstrated by decades of involvement with Ukrainian organizations and her willingness to serve wherever she identifies a need. Aleksa has consistently demonstrated strong leadership and initiative. As an instructor at Barvinok Ukrainian Dance School for the past ten years, she has played a key role in teaching younger generations about Ukrainian traditions, culture, and values.

The impact of Aleksa’s service extends far beyond individual events. Through her work as a dance instructor, musician, vocalist, educator, and community organizer, she has helped create meaningful opportunities for cultural engagement for thousands of participants and audience members. Her contributions have strengthened cultural identity among youth, promoted Ukrainian traditions to broader Canadian audiences, and provided support to newly arrived Ukrainians adjusting to life in Canada. During the outbreak of the war in Ukraine, she volunteered in Poland assisting displaced Ukrainians through translation services and humanitarian support, addressing an urgent and critical need during a time of crisis.

Collaboration and teamwork are central to Aleksa’s approach. She has successfully worked alongside community organizations including Barvinok Ukrainian Dance School, the Ukrainian Canadian Congress Toronto Branch, the Lemko Foundation, Camp Sokil, St. Mary’s Ukrainian Catholic Church, and Language House. Through these partnerships, she has contributed to cultural festivals, fundraising initiatives, educational programs, and humanitarian projects that have created a lasting positive impact.

Aleksa has also demonstrated creativity and innovation in community engagement. By combining her talents in music, dance, public speaking, education, and mental health counseling, she has developed unique ways to connect with diverse audiences and encourage participation in Ukrainian cultural life. Her ability to engage youth and newcomers has helped ensure traditions remain relevant and accessible to future generations.

Through her volunteerism, leadership, and professional development, Aleksa has become a respected role model within the Canadian-Ukrainian community. She continually inspires others through her actions, resilience, and dedication to service. Her character, leadership, and contributions are widely recognized by community members and organizations who can readily attest to her exceptional impact and commitment.