BORN IN VYSHYVANKA PROGRAM
In Ukrainian tradition, we say that a person “was born in a shirt” when life spares them from troubles and misfortune. For Ukrainians born far from their ancestral homeland, that shirt must be embroidered vyshyvanka, a symbol of connection, protection, and heritage.
The idea for this program originated with the International Vyshyvanka Day in Ukraine, which first launched it in 2014. Ukrainian Canadians have long been known worldwide for their commitment to preserving traditions, and in 2017, the Vyshyvanka Association, together with Meest Corporation Inc., introduced the Born in Vyshyvanka program in Canada. Its goal is to sustain and celebrate Ukrainian culture by marking one of life’s most joyful moments, the arrival of a newborn, and welcoming every child into the broader Ukrainian community.
As of 2026, 1000 embroidered shirts have been presented to newborn Ukrainian Canadians through this program.
The program was briefly paused during the pandemic but was relaunched in 2023 in partnership with the Embassy of Ukraine in Canada and the Consulates of Ukraine in Edmonton and Toronto.
How It Works
Originally, vyshyvankas were presented to newborns in Canada whose parents identified as Ukrainian. Today, if you apply for your child’s Ukrainian birth certificate through the Embassy’s website, your baby will receive a beautifully embroidered shirt as a gift.
Registration
The Born in Vyshyvanka program operates year-round. Parents can register up to one month before birth or within the baby’s first year. After your application is received, the Embassy will contact you to arrange an in-person presentation of your baby’s vyshyvanka.
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