Olha Zolotkova ventured to Winnipeg shortly after Russia’s extensive invasion of Ukraine in 2022, initially facing a language barrier. Today, she is embarking on her entrepreneurial journey.
Expressing her feelings in her new Exchange District showroom, Zolotkova shared her excitement and slight apprehension, emphasizing the newfound freedom and opportunities for fresh beginnings in Canada. Despite her background as a teacher, principal, and textbook editor in Ukraine, the idea of establishing her own business only crossed her mind after relocating to Canada, initially envisioning a daycare.
During a break from her role as an educational assistant at a Winnipeg school, Zolotkova decided to launch By Zola, an online store and appointment-based clothing boutique specializing in plus-size women’s clothing. This venture stemmed from her personal challenge of finding suitable clothing options in Winnipeg.
Zolotkova, who remains dedicated to her educational assistant role, is optimistic about the market reception of the clothing lines she is introducing. Balancing her passion for education and creation, she looks forward to the potential success of her endeavor.
As per a provincial spokesperson, nearly 30,000 Ukrainians have arrived in Manitoba through the province’s reception center since February 2022, with over 27,600 health cards issued. While the exact number of businesses initiated by these newcomers remains untracked, Zolotkova is among those who have taken the entrepreneurial leap.
Mila Shykota, another Ukrainian immigrant, established the Ukrainian Guide to Winnipeg, an online directory featuring businesses launched by Ukrainian newcomers and others offering Ukrainian products or food items.
Vitaliy Lebezun, vice-president of Warkentin Business Solutions, has been assisting Ukrainian arrivals with queries regarding business startup and self-employment prerequisites in Manitoba. With an increasing number of individuals settling in the province, Lebezun foresees a surge in entrepreneurial ventures among the newcomers.
Yuliia Okhrimenko and her husband, Serhii, relocated to Winnipeg and are nearing the first anniversary of their Ukrainian gift shop, KoloShop, situated within House of Local. The shop serves as a platform for individuals who fled Ukraine due to the war to showcase and sell their handmade products, fostering a sense of community support.
Yuliia and Serhii, who previously operated a flower shop in Ukraine, emphasize the importance of community solidarity and mutual support. Despite the emotional attachment to their homeland, they are committed to building a new life in Winnipeg and assisting fellow Ukrainian migrants.
The future remains uncertain for Zolotkova, torn between the desire to stay in Canada and the longing to revisit Ukraine once the conflict subsides. For now, her focus lies on expanding her business and integrating into the Manitoba community.