How an 11-Year Journey from Refugee to Canadian Citizen Became the Soul of Etobicoke’s Top Spa Destination

By Anya Ateachka | Founder of Royal York Spa, Etobicoke

I don’t quite remember whether I landed in Canada in 2003 or 2005—but I do remember it was April. The years that followed became one long stretch of survival, growth, heartbreak, healing—and ultimately, beauty.
Now, as I sit in the lobby of my dream-come-true, Royal York Spa—tucked between Park Lawn and Lakeshore, just minutes from Humber Bay Shores, Palace Pier, and yes, Costco—I realize this story isn’t just mine. It’s the story of every immigrant, every woman who rebuilt herself, and every person who came to Etobicoke looking for peace, healing, and a little bit of glow.

🛬 From Refugee to Citizen — And Finally, Home

I came as a refugee. No work permit. No credit. No anchor. I learned English through mistakes and love stories. I cried through paperwork and lived through deportation threats. I survived my first harsh Canadian winters alone.
By the time I got my citizenship—in August 2015, after 11 years—I wasn’t the same person. That moment at the swearing-in ceremony, surrounded by people from every corner of the world, was more than official.
It was spiritual.
I had become Canadian—not just on paper, but in soul. And I celebrated it not with old connections, but with new friends I had chosen myself. If you’re an immigrant, you know how powerful that is.

🌍 From Belarusian Forests to Toronto’s Top Facial Studio

When I opened Royal York Spa, it wasn’t just about skin—it was about identity. It was about creating a space where people could feel seen, understood, and elevated.
Our spa is located in the heart of South Etobicoke, a few steps away from Park Lawn, Humber Bay, Lakeshore, and a 5-minute drive from the Marina, the waterfront Airbnbs, and even those running errands at Costco.
We serve mothers, influencers, brides, retired CEOs, stylists, golfers, entrepreneurs, Airbnb travelers, and men and women from every community. From laser hair removal to custom facials, natural lip tattoos, Botox, and skin-tightening, our approach is both clinical and soulful.

💍 Yes, We Do Brides. I’ve Been One—Twice.

My first marriage was Jewish. I almost converted to Judaism. I celebrated Shabbat. I watched every Holocaust documentary and lived through deep cultural transformation. My second marriage was different—but equally powerful. I’ve worn the white dress twice, from two cultural perspectives, and I understand the emotional weight brides carry.
That’s why Royal York Spa is now known as a hidden gem for brides in Etobicoke—especially those staying in local Airbnbs, preparing for waterfront weddings, or seeking a private, VIP environment.
Our Bridal Glow Packages include pre-wedding facials, microcurrent sculpting, and under-eye brightening (because photos never lie).

🌿 The Ingredients Are Local. The Wisdom Is Global

My roots are in Belarusian herbalism. I know the power of pine, birch, and potato enzyme. But Canada gave me new ingredients: maple leaf antioxidants, wild rosehip, vitamin-rich grains, and the ability to merge old-world wellness with modern clinical excellence.
That’s how I created the RYS Signature Cream, now used in our facials and trusted by over 1,000 clients.

...🤝 A Multicultural Dream Team

Our estheticians are from Ukraine, Belarus, Russia, and Canada.
We speak seven languages, including Polish, Hebrew, Russian, and English.
We understand melanin-rich skin, sensitive skin, post-acne scarring, and the emotional trauma that can live inside the face.
At Royal York Spa, you’re not rushed. You’re not a number.
You’re part of our chosen family...

💗 Giving Back Is Non-Negotiable

After getting my citizenship, I began volunteering with Princess Margaret Hospital, supporting cancer patients in the Look Good, Feel Better program.
Later, I worked with Sistering Shelter, offering self-care workshops to homeless and abused women.
Now, a portion of every product we sell supports women’s health and community well-being.

🧴 So If You’re Googling…

“Best facials in Etobicoke”
“Botox near me”
“Bridal facials Toronto”
“Jewish-owned spa Toronto”
“Multicultural spa with real results”
You found it.
We’re Royal York Spa, and we’ve been waiting for you.

With love,
Anya Ateachka
Founder of Royal York Spa
CEO, Face of the Future Beauty Club @ateachka
📍 Located at 2318 Lake Shore Blvd W, Etobicoke