Mr. Speaker, this year, the Sopilka Ukrainian Dance School, located in my riding of Winnipeg South Centre, is celebrating 55 years of preserving and sharing Ukrainian culture.
Sopilka began as a small Ukrainian language class and grew into one of Manitoba's most respected dance schools. The school was founded in the early 1970s by Vicky Adams, a constituent of mine and a lifelong champion of Ukrainian culture, education and community life. Her extraordinary contributions were recently recognized with a King's coronation medal, reflecting decades of volunteerism and leadership, including her deep involvement with the Holy Family Ukrainian Catholic Church.
For generations of young people, Sopilka has been a place where discipline, history and cultural pride are passed down. Through performances across Manitoba and beyond, Sopilka has helped ensure that Ukrainian traditions remain vibrant, visible and proud.
I congratulate Vicky Adams, artistic director Kristina Frykas, dancers, instructors, families and alumni on 55 remarkable years. Here is to many more.