About Master’s Foundation | Our Heart for Ukraine

Our Team of Volunteers

All of our Directors serve on a volunteer basis, giving their time, leadership, and expertise to ensure that resources go directly to the people of Ukraine who need them most.

Walter Semeniuk

President, Masters Foundation

About

Jim Emery

Board Member

About

Robert Jakobczuk

Director, U.S. Liaison

About

Kevin Theriault

Director, Communications

About

Yuriy Nakonechnyy

Director, Ukraine Liaison

About

Shirley Dawidiuk

Executive Administrator

Mark Watrich

Consultant

Taras Kolivoshka

Ukrainian Director

Bogdan Mudriyevskyi

Ukrainian Director

From a young age, Walter Semeniuk felt a clear calling to serve God through missions. Of Ukrainian heritage, he has always carried a deep love and connection to the people of Ukraine. What began as a simple desire to make a difference has grown into more than 37 years of faith-driven service in different parts of the world. Over three decades ago, Walter’s heart was drawn to Ukraine, where he began leading youth camps, caring for orphans, and partnering with local believers to bring hope and encouragement to those in need.

In time, that same heart for missions led him to serve with Masters Foundation, where he now carries forward a legacy of compassion and faith. As President, Walter continues to strengthen partnerships in Ukraine, oversee humanitarian initiatives, and inspire others to extend God’s heart through their hands. His desire remains steadfast to see lives restored, faith renewed, and hope shine brightly even in the midst of hardship.

Walter Semeniuk

President, Masters Foundation

Jim Emery is a dedicated family man, professional, and community servant whose life reflects more than five decades of commitment, integrity, and faith. He and his wife, Joan, have been married for 48 years and are blessed with four children and nine grandchildren each a treasured part of their lives.

With over 50 years of experience in the accounting industry, Jim has built a respected career specializing in business consulting and corporate tax. His practical wisdom, steady leadership, and deep understanding of financial management have made him a trusted advisor to businesses and organizations alike.

Beyond his professional work, Jim has invested more than five decades in serving others through various church ministries, offering mentorship, support, and compassion wherever it’s needed. His long-standing involvement with the YMCA, where he has volunteered in multiple capacities, reflects his belief in strengthening communities through service and personal connection.

Faith continues to guide Jim’s work, his family life, and his commitment to helping those around him. Whether in his career, church, or community, he strives to live out his values with humility, generosity, and purpose.

Jim Emery

Board Member

I was born in Poland in April 1958 to a young couple who had emigrated from the former Soviet Union, now Ukraine. By the time I turned fourteen, I had lived in Poland, Argentina, Austria, and eventually the United States experiences that shaped my worldview and deepened my appreciation for family and culture. In 1980, I married my teenage sweetheart, and in time God blessed us with children and now grandchildren, who continue to be a great joy in our lives.

I accepted the Lord into my heart at a young age, and I am thankful for the strong spiritual foundation given to me by my parents and church mentors who encouraged me to serve. Over the years, I have been actively involved in Slavic youth camp ministry, as well as church ministry especially music, radio outreach, and church leadership on various boards.

I speak English, Ukrainian, Polish, and Spanish, and I have always loved the arts, especially music. It continues to be a meaningful way for me to worship, serve, and connect with others.

Robert Jakobczuk

Director, U.S. Liaison

Kevin Theriault’s connection to Ukraine began over 30 years ago, shortly after the fall of the USSR. Marrying into a Ukrainian family gave him a personal tie to the country and inspired a lifelong commitment to its people. Since then, Kevin has led numerous teams to Ukraine, providing hands-on support, guidance, and hope to communities in need especially orphans whose lives have been deeply affected by hardship.

Back home in Oakville, Kevin and his wife Lynda have built a successful business and raised three sons into remarkable young men, always keeping their faith in God at the centre of their family life. His dedication to service extends beyond his family and business: Since Spring of 2025, Kevin has served as Communications Director on the board of Masters Foundation, helping share the foundation’s mission and mobilize resources to bring meaningful aid and lasting change to children and families in Ukraine.

Kevin’s life is a testament to leadership, compassion, and unwavering faith. Whether at home or abroad, he strives to make a difference through practical action, heartfelt connection, and a deep commitment to serving others.

Kevin Theriault

Director, Communications

I am blessed to be the father of four children and originally from Ukraine, where I worked for many years in the field of advertising.

Since the war, I have made my home in Canada, continuing to use my experience while learning new skills and finding new ways to serve.

I believe that every good deed is a reflection of God’s love and has the power to change lives. My faith gives me hope and strength, reminding me that even far from home, God continues to unite us through His love and purpose.

Yuriy Nakonechkyy

Director, Ukraine Liaison

About Us

A Heart for Ukraine

How It All Began

Leadership through the years

Looking ahead

Our Team of Volunteers