Llama Tales
energized: new executive director Debra zoerb Greetings and Happy 2012!
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ecoming part of a renowned, vibrant organization such as Folklorama is a true honour and I am grateful for the opportunity to join the team as Executive Director. These past few months have been extremely rewarding and I am excited about working with such a dedicated, talented and passionate group of staff, board, membership, volunteers and supporters towards the continued success of Folklorama.
I am also energized by the amount of activity that takes place year round by Folklorama and its membership. I have already been fortunate to have attended a number of events and I thoroughly enjoyed meeting those involved. The amount of activity on the horizon is truly impressive, including the upcoming “Lead by Example” inaugural youth conference on February 4th. I look forward to many more such opportunities throughout the year, particularly as they will give me the chance to meet even more of the amazing people associated with Folklorama. All the best and here’s to a productive, successful – and fun! – year.
new Ethiopian cultural centre has focus on community
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here was something floating in the air that evening—stronger than the aroma of fresh Ethiopian coffee and the enticing smell of a traditional Ethiopian buffet. A feeling of anticipation and excitement circulated the room on the evening of November 26, 2011. Ethiopian Society of Winnipeg (ESW) held the grand opening ceremony of the Ethiopian Cultural Centre. The event was a dream come true for ESW and the Ethiopian community in Winnipeg as honoured guests and many community supporters packed the building located on 215 Selkirk Avenue. “It will be our center where we create the means or the venue to address the
cultural, emotional and economic needs of Ethiopians fostering the retention and development of Ethiopian cultural heritage,” said Daniel Asrat, President of ESW. The Centre offers programs to educate Ethiopian youth about their heritage, cultural background and language. “Our culture oriented programs and services help new immigrants build skills to integrate into the Canadian context in Winnipeg and help Canadian citizens and service providers ensure they have the capacity, knowledge, sensitivity, and resources to welcome and continue to engage immigrants into their activities,” said Asrat. Ethiopian immigrants and newcomers are also offered settlement services which provide information on topics such as childcare, employment, housing and finances. Visit www.ethiowpg.org to find out more about the Ethiopian Cultural Centre’s programs.
Vol. 13, Issue 1 January/February/March 2012 Ethiopian dancers at opening ceremony.