Yelyzaveta Datsenko moved to Dauphin from Ukraine four years ago.
She went from living in a city with more than half a million people. Dauphin's population is less than 10,000. To say it was a culture shock would be an understatement. She had to get used to a new school, make new friends, and find new things to do.
Datsenko took everything in stride. She quickly learned that Dauphin was the perfect place to be.
"I really love it here. Even though I came from a much larger city, I really like the small city vibe here," said Datsenko. "Everyone knows each other. Everyone is so friendly. Everyone is willing to help. I really like it here."
It didn't take Yelyzaveta long to find something that has become one of the most important parts of her life. She quickly joined the 50 LCol Barker VC Squadron. She joined the Squadron when she first turned 12.
She heard it was an interesting opportunity and, as they say, the rest is history.
Datsenko said the Dauphin Squadron is a tight-knit and friendly community. Everyone supports each other and she's really enjoyed meeting members of other Squadrons. Four years after first joining the 50 LCol Barker VC Squadron, big congratulations are in order for Datsenko.
She earned her glider pilot wings through the Royal Canadian Air Cadets. This summer at the Gimli Cadet Flying Training Centre, she completed her Glider Pilot scholarship. The course included intensive flight training, taking cadets from dual instruction through to solo flight.
Datsenko developed the knowledge and decision-making skills needed to handle real flying conditions safely and confidently.
She became the first pilot the Dauphin squadron has produced in several years.
"I'm very excited for that to happen. I worked really hard for them. I put a ton of effort in, hoping I would get them one day," said Datsenko. "I'm really excited to fly and build up my hours. It's really exciting, and I'm proud of myself for doing that."
Flight Sergeant Datsenko received her wings at a ceremony on August 21 in Gimli.
Five years ago, Yelyzaveta never expected to have received her pilot wings through the Royal Canadian Air Cadets. The Dauphin squadron, led by commanding officer Captain Marcus Paddock, gave her that chance. Datsenko then made it happen.
If you're interested in joining the Dauphin squadron and following in the footsteps of Yelyzaveta Datsenko, who just five years ago was living in Ukraine, she says it's well worth the journey. While it's challenging at times, if you have what it takes to work hard and put in the effort, nothing is stopping you form achieving great things.
Just look at Datsenko; she's proof.
"I believe if you have enough passion, it's never going to be a chore for you," said Datsenko. "Learning about aviation in general. You have to keep pushing. I promise you, it's going to be one of the best summers you'll ever have."
For more information on the 50 LCol Barker VC Squadron, you can visit their Facebook page.
