From July 5 to 11, 2026, the annual Ukrainian Youth Association (CYM) Youth Camp took place at the picturesque “Zelenyi Bir” retreat in Ukrainian Park, near Winnipeg. Over the course of seven days, dozens of children and young people lived as one Ukrainian community—learning, playing, competing, and creating memories that will undoubtedly stay with them for a lifetime.

The CYM camp is not just about rest and recreation, but a genuine environment for children’s development, fostering self-reliance, leadership skills, and strengthening friendships. This year’s camp program was truly interesting and diverse: intellectual and interactive games, sports, creative workshops, singing, campfires, excursions, discussions on various topics, swimming, and life in nature.

Every day, the campers spent time on the shores of Lake Winnipeg, where they swam, played beach games, and enjoyed the summer sun. One of the highlights of the week was a field trip to the historic town of Gimli, Manitoba—one of the oldest settlements on the shores of Lake Winnipeg, founded by Icelandic settlers—where the children and teens learned a lot of interesting facts about the history of the region.

There was no shortage of sportsmanship either—campers participated in numerous athletic competitions and tournaments that brought teams together and fostered a healthy spirit of competition. Creative workshops and master classes were held daily, including woodworking sessions, during which the young people crafted their own projects, developing patience and fine motor skills.

The educational part of the camp was just as packed with activities. Campers took part in informative and engaging sessions on Ukrainian culture and history, learning many little-known and interesting facts about Ukraine’s history. This year, special attention was devoted to Ivan Franko and his fairy tale “Lys Mykyta”—after all, in 2026 we mark the 110th anniversary of the death of the great “Kamenyar.” The young people also learned about Symon Petliura, in whose honor this year’s camp was held; they listened with enthusiasm to a presentation on the rights of citizens guaranteed by the Constitution of Ukraine; and the younger campers attended first-aid training sessions and participated in discussions about the environment and ecology.

A highlight of the camp was a meeting with our guest, Dr. Tamara, who shared her personal experience participating in medical missions to Ukraine. Her account of working with the wounded and the civilian population under difficult conditions made a deep impression on the young people and served as a reminder of the unbreakable bond between the Ukrainian community in Canada and the Motherland.

Every evening, the camp came alive with traditional bonfires, around which Ukrainian songs, jokes, and warm conversations rang out. It is precisely these evenings, spent in a warm Ukrainian circle, that best convey the atmosphere of a CYM camp—a sense of unity, belonging, and joy in our shared Ukrainian identity.

But it’s important to emphasize: the CYM camp is not just about fun and entertainment. It’s a school of life where children learn independence and self-reliance, develop leadership skills, learn to collaborate as part of a team, gain a deeper understanding of nature and ecosystems, and at the same time strengthen their Ukrainian identity. Friendships are formed here that, as the experience of many generations of CYM members shows, last a lifetime.

The week at the “Zelenyi Bir” camp flew by, but it left behind unforgettable impressions and emotions. The young CYM members headed home tired, tanned, and happy—with pleasant memories, new knowledge, and, most importantly, new friends and an even stronger connection to their Ukrainian heritage.

This year’s camp was truly a resounding success, and for that, we extend our sincere and heartfelt thanks to the team and counselors who put their hearts and souls into making sure every day was fulfilling, safe, and truly joyful for every camper. Special recognition goes to the young camp team, consisting of: Markian McColl—komendant, Oleg Yemkov—bunczuzhnyy, Alexa Beret—counselor, Polina Kiptenko—pyaar, and the camp “mom”—Anna Kovalenko. It is thanks to their dedicated work that this week at the “Zelenyi Bir” camp will remain forever in the hearts of the children and youth.

Stay strong! See you at the CYM camp next year!

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