20 Years of Snorri (Snorri Program 20-Year Commemorative Magazine)

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Supporters

I have gotten to know the Snorri Program through my wonderful friend Ásta Sól, who recruited me a couple years ago to meet with Snorri groups, sing songs, and tell them Icelandic stories. It was with a deep sense of pride, duty, and joy that I accepted, and it has certainly been a most rewarding adventure. I was thoroughly impressed with the way these young people embraced and were in turn embraced by their Icelandic relatives and how eager they were to learn about their old country’s culture, history, and also humour, which is one of the most important aspects of any people. I also came to understand how this project has both built bridges between those families so long parted and strengthened the foundations upon which those bridges stand. I was also deeply touched by Ásta Sól’s dedication to her work, to these young people, and to the cause of bringing together our long-lost families.

Svavar Knútur A well-known musician in Iceland and abroad, Svavar has met with many Snorri groups over the years to share music, stories, and folklore. Svavar (far right) with the 2012 Snorris after sharing the magic of music with them.

The Snorri Program has worked wonders and it may be the single most Photos courtesy of Ásta Sól Kristjánsdóttir (top) and Atli Ásmundsson (bottom)

important project to achieve the ultimate goal, that is to educate the young and introduce our countries and cultures to future generations, forge friendship and understanding between us all, and make sure the love and respect continues to live on in our hearts and most of all pass the torch. The Snorri Program has given us a future.

Atli Ásmundsson Consul General in Winnipeg, 2004–2013 Atli was adviser to Minister for Foreign Affairs Halldór Ásgrímsson from 1995 to 2002 and played a key role in revitalizing INL-Iceland in 1997. He was instrumental in paving the way for Snorri and has always been a staunch supporter of the program.

Atli Ásmundsson with his wife, Þrúður Helgadóttir.

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