Elena's journey is woven with the resilience of the women who came before her. Born into a lineage of formidable women, she draws inspiration from their tales of survival amidst tumultuous times.

Named after her great-grandmother Elena, who weathered the storms of the Communist Revolution and World War II, Elena carries forward the legacy of strength and perseverance. 

Elena's grandmother, Antonina, continued this legacy of resilience, forging a path in mechanical engineering in a male-dominated field. Her determination to succeed, despite facing domestic violence and economic instability, instilled in Elena a profound sense of empowerment.

Following in her family's footsteps, Elena's own journey has been marked by resilience and determination. Born during a time of economic and political upheaval in Ukraine, she faced hardships from a young age. Yet, she rose above adversity, pursuing a career as a professional ballet dancer.

However, a chronic injury forced Elena to reimagine her path. Retiring from ballet, she embarked on a new journey of self-discovery, finding solace and purpose in academia. Enrolling in the Environmental Design Program at the University of Manitoba, Elena discovered a newfound passion for architecture and design.

Driven by her desire to contribute to her community and make a difference, Elena seized opportunities to engage in research and community projects. As an undergraduate research assistant, she collaborates with Dr. Shauna Mallory-Hill on initiatives aimed at creating affordable housing for First Nation communities.

Elena's journey is a testament to the resilience and strength of the women who shaped her. Guided by their legacy, she remains steadfast in her pursuit of academic excellence and her dreams of becoming an architect. With unwavering determination, Elena strives to be a role model for her own daughter, embracing each opportunity to inspire and uplift those around her.