Hello, my name is Olena, and I am a seamstress and artist in Fergus. I was born in the beautiful city of Kharkiv, Ukraine. When the war broke out in Ukraine, I took my children and fled to Poland to find safety. We stayed there for half a year, and then were sponsored to move to Canada in the Fall of 2022. Our sponsor lived on a farm, so my children and I lived on their farm until we could afford an apartment. Living on the farm was an incredible experience – the peaceful country atmosphere and gorgeous scenery filled me with joy.
When I arrived, I was at a loss for what to do. I began working at a local restaurant; the job was interesting, and many of my co-workers became my friends. However, I knew I wanted to return to sewing, a craft I was truly passionate about. I was a seamstress in Ukraine and had been working with fabrics since high school. I also upcycled a lot since I love to make something from nothing. After finding an apartment in downtown Fergus, I began sewing and creating upcycled pieces with an old machine my sponsor had gifted me. This was the start of my business, Olena’s Sewing Corner.
Seeing my work, people began recommending me to their friends, and with the power of word-of-mouth, a large and loyal client base began to form. My business began expanding, and my creativity and passion for this art was illustrated through the pieces I make/mend. I have added new machines to my inventory, including an industrial-style Serger that reminds me of my time working on industrial machines in Poland. I also teach art and sewing lessons to people of all ages.
“I am loving life more and more in Wellington County; my soul feels safe and at home.”
Something I love about the community is the people – they’re very friendly, grateful, and always willing to help. The people make the place, and I am very proud to call Fergus my new home. I enjoy the quiet yet bustling town centre, which also has some amazing architecture. In my free time, I enjoy going for walks and foraging for herbs. Making different kinds of tea is a hobby of mine – I often share these recipes with neighbours and friends. I also would like to begin painting more outside since I have always loved the nature in the area. I am loving life more and more in Wellington County; my soul feels safe and at home.
