Born to Be Independent: Kyiv Independent launches a new collection for its fifth anniversary

The Kyiv Independent has launched a T-shirt and zip hoodie collection called “Born to Be Independent” to mark its fifth anniversary. Purchases support the outlet’s journalism in Ukraine, and the collection’s name reflects its founding struggle to protect editorial independence.

In November 2021, journalists left a legacy English-language newspaper after its owner tried to interfere with critical coverage of Ukrainian authorities, then began reporting independently from Kyiv. Three months later, Russia launched its full-scale invasion; the team stayed and covered the war. The outlet now has around 100 staff and more than 38,000 members across over 100 countries. Store profits support reporting and have also funded charity projects, including drone detectors for frontline journalists and animal evacuations.