It is a huge achievement for Estonians abroad to have an appointed special ambassador and 2 advisors. This is the result of four years of active lobbying by diaspora central organizations for greater representation, an effort initiated and largely led by EKN. Ambassador Mõttus is actively seeking input from all global Estonian communities, as we move forward together to implement the new Global Estonian Program, in January 2022. This program will provide significant support and funding for global Estonian organizations.
The conference provided an opportunity for Ambassador Mõttus, Keit Spiegel, Kadri Linnas, and all participants to learn more about the 22 registered organizations, through 2 – 3 minute individual presentations. Representatives were asked to include a short history, demographic data, what makes their organization unique, successes, a challenge and hopes for future cooperation with Estonia. Feedback from Estonian and Canadian participants was highly positive.
Of special interest to those living in the Greater Toronto area was the renewal and strength of communities in Vancouver, Alberta (AEHS Alberta Heritage Society) and Montreal, as well as the Johan Pitka Society and Estonian Canadian radio program Esti Pop.
Reet Marten Sehr introduced the Estonian presenters, who provided updated information about the new Global Estonian program and answered questions on a variety of topics. There was strong interest in upcoming grant and funding opportunities, as well as the Global Estonian website, founded and donated to the Estonian government by Canadians Marcus Kolga and Tarmo Saks. The website has become the official government platform for global Estonians. It maps groups, organizations and events from around the world, and compiles a weekly global report for Estonian national broadcaster ERR. Everyone is invited to visit the site and organizations are being asked to post information directly at
https://globalestonian.com/en
In her closing remarks, Reet Marten Sehr thanked all presenters and participants. EKN will continue to inform communities about upcoming information and grant opportunities through the Global Estonian Program and host meetings on topics of mutual interest.
