Master of Ceremonies

Nick Hynek, originally from Lloydminster, AB, has devoted over two decades to the art and tradition of Ukrainian dance. His journey began as a performer with the Viter Ukrainian Dancers, taking him to stages around the world. Today, Nick is a proud member of the  Shumka Ukrainian Dancers, where he has toured extensively in acclaimed productions such as Mosquito’s Wedding (2022),Nutcracker (2023, 2025) and Back to Our Roots (2026).

With more than 10 years of teaching experience, Nick continues to push the boundaries of Ukrainian dance in Alberta. He is currently the president of the Alberta Ukrainian Dance Association (AUDA), he champions initiatives that promote cultural heritage, secure vital funding, and provide education for dance groups across the province. He played a key role in creating the Kozatska Sich workshop, designed to unite and inspire young men passionate about Ukrainian dance.

Nick’s commitment to education extends beyond the studio. He shares his expertise with students in rural schools in Myrnam and Innisfree, while also serving as a junior high teacher at H.E. Beriault School in Edmonton. In 2022, Nick taught at Novopecherska School in Kyiv, Ukraine, until the outbreak of war forced his return home. Since then, he has worked tirelessly to raise awareness and funds for humanitarian efforts, using dance as a powerful medium to honour Ukrainian heritage and resilience.

In 2022, Nick helped organize the Night for Ukraine performance, raising over $100,000 for relief efforts. He continues to collaborate with organizations such as Ukrainian Patriot and the Ukrainian Canadian Foundation, ensuring ongoing support for those affected by the war. In his community work, Nick was honoured at the Edmonton Oilers Ukrainian Through his artistry, leadership, and advocacy, Nick strives to keep Ukrainian culture vibrant and impactful for generations to come.

Brad Salyn is the host and producer of The Zabava Hour with Brad Salyn on CKJS 92.7 FM in Winnipeg. Born and raised in Brandon, Manitoba, Brad is a fourth-generation Ukrainian Canadian. His mother’s family settled along the western slopes of Riding Mountain on Manitoba’s Perogy Trail, while his father’s family homesteaded just across the provincial border near Wroxton, Saskatchewan.

Since taking over The Zabava Hour two years ago, Brad has expanded and modernized the program by launching a podcast archive and building a dynamic social media presence. Today, the show connects with listeners around the world and has generated more than one million social media views.

A former altar boy at St. Mary’s Ukrainian Catholic Church, an alumni of the Brandon Troyanda School of Dance, and a former member of the High Profile Dance Band, Brad has proudly embraced his Ukrainian heritage throughout his life. He is passionate about celebrating and preserving Ukrainian culture while sharing its traditions with future generations.

Brad lives in East St. Paul, Manitoba, with his wife and their three children.

As a broadcaster, community advocate, and cultural ambassador, Brad is proud to help ensure that the rich traditions of Ukrainian Canadians continue to thrive for generations to come.