Occupation: Student

Country of Birth: Ukraine (Korosten)

Current: Shoreview, MN

“We went to Poland, then from Poland to Amsterdam. From Amsterdam, we flew to Minneapolis, U.S. It was really cool to look at different cities. When we were flying, we saw the big towers, it was cool.”

Vadym Shatun was born in Korosten, Ukraine, near the Belarus border. When the war in Ukraine began, his city was often bombed, forcing his family to flee to Poland for safety. After a week in Poland, they moved to Norway, settling in the city of Hauge i Dalane. There, Vadym spent time learning the language, making friends, and enjoying riding his scooter at the skatepark.

Despite the support the family received, Norway’s changing weather gave Vadym’s mother severe migraines which prompted the family to relocate under the U4U program to the United States. Before leaving, the family returned to Ukraine for a week to visit loved ones. Their journey took them through Poland and Amsterdam before arriving in Minneapolis, where their sponsors welcomed them.

Adjusting to life in the U.S. was challenging for Vadym. Starting middle school while learning a new language and leaving behind family and friends was difficult. Now a high school sophomore, Vadym spends time with friends, enjoys airsoft, and has started a small business reselling clothing. Inspired by the kindness he has received along the way, Vadym aspires to build a life where he can work, volunteer, and give back.