The Well Endowed Podcast

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Wills Week is here, and we're bringing you a special two-part series with estate planning experts Allison Barkwell and Michael Simons! Allison and Michael have extensive experience guiding individuals and families through the complexities of estate planning. In this episode, they'll discuss the risks of using online Will Kits and shed light on the roles of “Swoopers” and “Sweepers” in estate matters. Links: Learn more about Wills Week. Our guests today were Allison Barkwell and Michael Simons from Barr LLP & McCuaig Desrochers LLP ECF Happenings: Find out how to create an Endowment Fund of your own. Read the latest on our […]

Wills Week is here, and we're bringing you a special two-part series with estate planning experts Allison Barkwell and Michael Simons! Allison and Michael bring a wealth of experience to the table, having helped countless individuals and families navigate the often-overwhelming process of estate planning. They'll guide you through the essential steps of creating a comprehensive estate plan, offering clear explanations and practical tips along the way. Don't miss this special two-part series! Links: Learn more about Wills Week. Our guests today were Allison Barkwell and Michael Simons from Barr LLP & McCuaig Desrochers LLP ECF Happenings: Find out how […]

The Canadian Zalmi Society is a beacon of hope for Afghan newcomers, providing vital supports as they rebuild their lives in Canada. In this episode of The Well Endowed Podcast, we explore their impactful work and the difference they are making within the community. Through the personal story of Chand Gul, their program manager, we gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and triumphs faced by those who have sought refuge in Canada. Discover how the Canadian Zalmi Society is fostering belonging and opportunity for a brighter future. Links: Learn more about The Canadian Zalmi Society. Read The Canadian Zalmi […]

This year marks the 20th anniversary of Children's Autism Services of Edmonton. On this episode, we speak with executive producer, Terri Duncan to learn how the organization is reshaping the way supports for kids and families living with Autism are delivered. This includes things like departing from a behavioural compliance approach toward something called the SCERTS model. SCERTS stands for Social Communication, Emotional Regulation and Transactional Support. This approach is designed to foster independence and creative thinking so that children living with Autism can grow to become healthy, contributing citizens in their communities. Links: Learn more about Children's Autism Services of […]

On this episode we're joined by Tareq Hadhad, Founder and CEO of Peace by Chocolate. Born in Damascus, Tareq shares his journey from a Lebanese refugee camp to Antigonish, Nova Scotia. His journey from the Middle East to Canada and its resulting culture shock are the tip of an inspiring iceberg that showcase the compassion and support of Canadians, Nova Scotians and the people of Antigonish. Tareq will present the keynote address at Edmonton Community Foundation's Annual luncheon on June 20th. Links: Read Jennifer Cockrall's profile “Son of a Baron”. Read Tom Ndekezi's feature “New Zone. Who's This?” Watch the […]

Last year, our 10-part podcast series on the historic Vriend v. Alberta Supreme Court ruling received a nomination for a Canadian Online Publishing Award. This series has now been adapted into a feature-length documentary, Pride vs. Prejudice: The Delwin Vriend Story, written and directed by Darrin Hagen. Pride vs. Prejudice tells the compelling story of Delwin Vriend, who was dismissed from a Christian university in Edmonton for being gay, leading him to challenge this discrimination all the way to the Supreme Court. This documentary, produced by Edmonton Community Foundation and the Edmonton Queer History Project, premieres on May 19th at […]

In this episode, we conclude  Monelle Sturko's panel discussion that examines the vital role of women in leadership within the non-profit sector. Join Monelle, Michele Okere and Yasmin Jivraj as they delve into effective strategies for making positive change, communicating effectively with Boards and what enables women to bring unique leadership styles to the table. About the Panelists: Monelle Sturko is the Chair of the Board of Directors of the Edmonton Community Foundation. As well as the Chair of the Governance Committee and a board member of the Social Enterprise Fund. Monelle is also a litigator at the law firm […]

In this episode, join us for part one of a dynamic panel discussion that delves deep into the vital role of women in leadership within the non-profit sector. Featuring a round table discussion lead by Monelle Sturko (ECF's Board Chair), Michele Okere and Yasmin Jivraj bring diverse perspectives and experiences to the table, offering insights into the challenges, triumphs, and strategies for success in navigating the non-profit landscape. About the Panelists: Monelle Sturko is the Chair of the Board of Directors of the Edmonton Community Foundation. As well as the Chair of the Governance Committee and a board member of […]

Accepting the role as an executor of an estate can be a daunting prospect. Between probate and tax considerations and beneficiaries who may, or may not get along, the process can seem overwhelming.   On this episode we sit down with Victoria Jones from the law firm de Villars Jones to discuss the ins and outs of estate administration.    Victoria has appeared at all levels of court in Alberta and has appeared at the Supreme Court of Canada.  Her practice includes Wills, Estates, Trusts, Estate Litigation and Administrative Law.   She is also part of the dedicated team of volunteer estate lawyers […]

To celebrate International Women's Day, we go into our archives to bring you a story about two incredible community builders in our city. Nunu Desalgne and Hayat El-Ossmani were recognized for their community work at the 2022 RISE Awards. The RISE Awards are presented by Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers to recognize immigrant success in Edmonton. Hayat and Nunu received The Community Leadership Award, sponsored by Edmonton Community Foundation. This award recognizes newcomers who demonstrate a commitment to community engagement, with the goal of creating a more welcoming and inclusive community for all. Since 2003, The RISE Awards have celebrated newcomers who have […]

February 27th is International Polar Bear Day. On this episode, we're putting on our parkas and heading out to learn about these majestic creatures. We'll meet Dr. Andrew Derocher, a polar bear biologist from the University of Alberta to see how polar bears are faring in a changing Arctic, and we'll hear from Dianne Johnstone one of the founders of the Johnstone-Wright Polar Bear Fund at Edmonton Community Foundation. This very special fund supports education, research and conservation efforts for polar bears and other Arctic species. Links: Learn more about the Johnstone-Wright Polar Bear Fund. Learn more about Dr. Derocher's […]

On this episode, we go back into our archives to present a replay of our look at how bias in data gathering can impact representation of communities. Our guest producer, Emily Rendell-Watson, speaks with three incredible community members with experience in data research, urban planning and activism. This story originally aired in 2022 while ECF explored the history of racism through its annual Vital Signs initiative. Vital Signs is a check-up to see how the community is fairing on various issues. This work is done in collaboration with Edmonton Social Planning Council and with guidance from a dedicated committee made […]

On this episode, our correspondent, Danielle Paradis introduces us to Kyle Dubé, the executive director at YOUCAN Youth Services. Kyle tells us how being relentless can make a difference. YOUCAN helps young people out of harm's way, and onto a path of economic independence. They do this through a series of programs that empower healthy decision-making.  They also help youth to return to school and enter the work force with training and skill development. Links: Learn more abut YOUCAN Youth Services. Check out their Relentless podcast series. ECF Happenings: Find out how to create an Endowment Fund of your own. Read […]

In February 2023, Betty and George Screpnek created a fund to celebrate their son, Wade, on his 50th birthday. It is the Wade Screpnek Speech Therapy Fund, and it will assist families with the cost of accessing speech therapy. On this episode, we meet Betty Screpnek, donor, and Janet Tryhuba, executive director of Edmonton Down Syndrome Society. They show us how vibrant communities are built  when we support and celebrate each other for who we are. Links: Learn more about the Wade Screpnek Speech Therapy Fund. Connect with Edmonton Down Syndrome Society. See more resources for people born with down syndrome. […]

Boyle Street Community Services has been supporting people experiencing homelessness and poverty since 1971. And for many of those years, it was operating out of a dilapidated facility on 101st Street and 105th Avenue.   In late 2021, Boyle Street announced it was purchasing a new building a few blocks north of their original location and they were getting set to break ground on okimaw peyesew kamik, which is Cree for The King Thunderbird Centre.   But what was supposed to be a rather straight forward move began facing major hurdles, first with building permit issues, then community backlash and that was […]

On this episode, our correspondent Theodora MacLeod introduces us to the very talented AV (Ann Vriend). We learn about the inner-city has shaped her music, and how one front-porch in the neighbourhood of McCauley has brought people together. AV was a recipient of a 2022 Edmonton Artists' Trust Fund Award. The Edmonton Artists' Trust Fund (EATF) is a joint initiative of Edmonton Arts Council and Edmonton Community Foundation. It invests in the creative community by supporting living and working expenses, allowing exceptional local artists to devote time to their artistic career. It also encourages artists to stay in the Edmonton community. […]

On this episode, we meet Eric Rice, Eric recently created the Edmonton Affordable Housing Maintenance Fund here at ECF, to support people experiencing housing or income insecurity. Eric has been involved in housing and homelessness in various ways over the years. It is a complex and overwhelming issue, and the people experiencing houselessness are often met with stigmatization and judgement. With an issue this big, it's hard to know how we as individuals can make a difference. That's one reason Eric began his fund, and why he continues to be active with organizations that are working to end homelessness. Eric's […]

On this episode, freelance producer Emily Rendell-Watson explores new innovations in local agriculture that could impact the future of food security in Edmonton.  Food security is the topic for our 2023 Vital Signs report. Edmonton Community Foundation (ECF) and Edmonton Social Planning Council (ESPC) have partnered to create this report, and we've learned a lot about food in our city.  In our previous episodes, we've talked about food security over the past 10 years and where we are today.  We also looked at how food is more than just basic survival – it brings communities together so we can thrive.   Today, we look at how innovations […]

On this episode, we learn about how the Canada Cultural Investment Fund (CCIF) matches endowment donations to create a sustainable funding source for arts organizations like Edmonton Opera and Ukrainian Shumka Dancers + Shumka School of Dance. CCIF is a program created by the Government of Canada. Their Endowment Incentives component provides matching funds to endowments that support professional performing arts organizations.  ECF became a partner in this component in 2001. Since then, we've partnered with 21 local arts organizations to grow or start endowment funds that are held here at ECF.  These participating organizations raise or contribute donations toward their […]

On this episode, freelance producer Emily Rendell-Watson, explores the nuances around accessing food and why our goal should be to help people thrive, not just survive. Food security is the topic for our 2023 Vital Signs report. Earlier in August, in our Hunger Happens Here episode, we talked about Edmonton's food security landscape over the past 10 years. We also looked at some of the day-to-day factors that play into how people can access food. Like cost-of-living increases, affordable housing, and whether culturally appropriate food is available. In that episode our guest, Julia Tran, invited us to think about food […]

Death eventually comes for all of us. We don't have a choice in this matter, but we do have a lot of choice when it comes to what happens after we pass. On this episode, Our producer, Lisa Pruden, sits down with Victoria Jones to discuss some wishes that people have for themselves and their pets when they die – and let's just say some of these get pretty creative and may, or may not involve a homemade cannon. Victoria is a lawyer at De Villars Jones LLP, with a focus on wills and estates. She is one of the wonderful […]

On this episode, our correspondent, Aubrianna Snow, takes us to Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society. Bent Arrow was established in 1994 to support Indigenous children, youth and families. Their mission is to empower Indigenous people to grow spiritually, emotionally, physically and mentally. And to see them walk proudly in both Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities. Executive Director, Cheryl Whiskeyjack, tells us about the importance of ceremony and access to culture. And talks about some of the nuances of reconciliation in Edmonton. Links: Visit Bent Arrow Traditional Healing Society. Discover how you can connect with Indigenous culture and ceremony. Read Bill C-92: […]

On this episode, our correspondent, Scott Lilwall, takes us to the 2nd oldest migration monitoring observatory in Canada: the Beaverhill Bird Observatory (BBO). BBO was established in 1984 and has gathered decades of datasets that help them track changes in bird populations and how they migrate. And they boast several programs to encourage education, research, and community knowledge. Programs like the Young Ornithologists Workshop! BBO is  an Important Bird Area. It is an Internationally Significant Wetland, and it is a space where we can all share knowledge and appreciation for Alberta's natural history. To help continue their work far into […]

On this episode our correspondent, Emily Rendell-Watson, explores food security in Edmonton. Food security was the subject of ECF's very first Vital Signs report, published back in 2013. This year, on our 10th anniversary of Vital Signs, we are revisiting that topic and taking a deep dive into Edmonton's food security landscape to see what has changed over time, for better or worse.   For example, the percentage of Albertans experiencing severe food insecurity more than doubled between 2011 and 2022. The use of Edmonton's food bank has increased too. In 2013, the food bank served 12,677 people per month. In 2022, […]

On this episode our correspondent, Aubrianna Snow, learns about the Black Equity in Alberta Rainforest (BEAR) initiative and how the philosophy of Ubuntu (meaning: I am because we are) can help us better understand their approach to health equity. BEAR was founded by the Ribbon Rouge Foundation to strengthen health equity in African, Caribbean and Black (ACB) communities. ECF has been honoured to provide funding to help with the first three years of the initiative. BEAR takes an intersectional approach to securing the health, wealth and wellbeing of the ACB community. They engage with community members, conduct research and mobilize […]

On this episode, we hear an inspiring conversation about the power of plays and growing up in Edmonton's scrappy theatre scene with Louise Casemore. Louise is an award-winning playwright and self-described “Prairie Nuisance.” She is a dramaturg, and in 2021 she published a national study on new play development titled “Surveying the Landscape.” Louise also has an interest in human resources. She is an artist advocate and consults with arts organizations around policy creation and organizational audits. Human resources in the performing arts is not only an area of focus for her, she is creatively inspired about the language and […]

On this episode, we meet The Melisizwe Brothers. Marc, Seth and Zacary James began training in music as early as ages 4 to 7. Encouraged by their families, and with each other's support, they have since established themselves on the music scene. The Melisizwe Brothers have performed internationally and have appeared on several television shows including Netflix's Mowtown Magic, Showtime at the Apollo, the Ellen DeGeneres Show and  more! And they are finding ways to give back to the community through their Gold Mind Programs. ECF is excited to help support their upcoming performance at the Winspear Centre on June […]

On this episode, our correspondent, Emily Rendell-Watson speaks to Professor Irshad Manji: Best selling author and founder of Moral Courage College, and a recipient of Oprah's “Chutzpah Award” for boldness. Professor Manji is an accomplished leadership scholar whose work focuses on teaching people how to engage in constructive conversations. She will be presenting her talk: “From Polarization to Collaboration” on June 8th at the Citadel Theatre. This talk is part of Edmonton Public Library's Forward thinking Speaker Series. Links: Get your tickets to “From Polarization to Collaboration” on June 8th at the Citadel Theatre. Learn more about Professor Irshad Manji. Get engaged […]

Though the Supreme Court's ruling on Vriend v. Alberta helped pave the way for equality for Canada's 2SLGBTQI+ communities, maintaining the road to dignity for all has been tumultuous. There have been many setbacks, followed by advances, followed by setbacks in the subsequent years. It took the Government of Alberta (GOA) 11 years to officially add the words “sexual orientation” to its human rights legislation. It also amended its education act to prohibit teachers from mentioning sexual orientation in schools without advising parents first. This was Alberta's equivalent to Florida's “Don't Say Gay” bill. And it rolled back equality rights […]

The Supreme Court's ruling on Vriend v. Alberta has impacted the lives of countless 2SLGBTQI+ people. Not just in Alberta, not just in Canada, but around the globe. In this episode we look at the ripple effect Vriend v. Alberta has had over the past 25 years since first making its splash at the Alberta Court of Queen's Bench in Edmonton. We also return to where this story began, and look at how The King's University has worked to address its complicated legacy as ground zero for the court case that brought equality to Alberta's and Canada's 2SLGBTQI+ communities. Welcome […]

The Supreme Court had ruled that sexual orientation should be read into Alberta's human rights legislation. But the Alberta Government had one more tool it could use to deny equality to its Queer population. That option was the Notwithstanding Clause. The province slipped into turmoil as the Alberta Government debated whether or not to invoke the Notwithstanding Clause. As Premier Ralph Klein remained silent, hate and vitriol bubbled to the surface of public discourse resulting in massive letter-writing campaigns and death threats. Welcome to episode 8 of Vriend Versus Alberta. *NOTE: The terms “Queer and Trans” and “sexual and gender […]

Dewlin Vriend and his legal team returned home from the Supreme Court of Canada to find a massive crowd waiting for them at the Edmonton International Airport. Alberta was in a frenzy, and the anticipation built as the province waited for the Supreme Court to issue its ruling on the future of equality for Alberta's Queer and Trans community. It was going to be a close call.  Delwin's legal team's hopes rested with Justice Sopinka — the swing vote. But a week after the hearing, the tragic news of Justice Sopinka's death shocked the nation. Now, it was anyone's guess […]

Sheila Greckol had delivered her opening arguments at the Supreme Court of Canada. It went well as she presented her submission in support of reading in sexual orientation as a protected ground in Alberta's human rights legislation. Now it was the Government of Alberta's turn to defend its stance. As the Province's lead counsel took to the lecturn, the equality of countless Canadians hung in the balance. Welcome to episode 6 of Vriend Versus Alberta. *NOTE: The terms “Queer and Trans” and “sexual and gender minorities” are used in this series to refer to the 2SLGBTQI+ community as a whole. […]

The Supreme Court of Canada granted Delwin Vriend's legal team the leave to appeal Justice McClung's ruling in the Alberta Court of Appeal. As the team arrived in Ottawa, the excitement and tension was palpable. It was their last shot to compel the Government of Alberta to include “sexual orientation” as  protected ground in the Province's human rights legislation. In this episode, we take a deep dive into Sheila Greckol's opening argument and visit a few of the submissions from the many interveners who spoke in support of Delwin's case. This would conclude the first half of the hearing before […]

With his legal team behind him, Delwin Vriend won his case at the Alberta Court of Queen's Bench. Justice Russel pulled no punches in her written ruling, stating that discrimination against the gay and lesbian communities was an historical, universal, notorious, and indisputable social reality.  It was a big win for Delwin and his team, however it would be short lived as the Government of Alberta appealed the ruling. The next stage in the legal process would not be so kind to Delwin's pursuit for equality for Alberta's 2SLGBTQI+ community. Welcome to episode 4 of Vriend Versus Alberta. *NOTE: The […]

When Delwin Vriend was fired from his job at a Christian college for being gay, he had two choices; he could accept his termination, or fight back. He chose to fight. The first step was to file a complaint to the Alberta Human Rights Commission, but after the Commission denied his request it was time to take the Alberta Government to court. In this episode we look at the series of serendipitous events that brought Delwin's legal team together to continue the arduous journey toward equality for Canada's 2SLGBTQI+ community.  Welcome to episode 3 of Vriend Versus Alberta. *NOTE: The […]

In the previous episode of Vriend Versus Alberta we learned how the creation of the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms laid the groundwork for 2SLGBTQI+ activists to begin pressing for progressive reform in Alberta.  All that was needed was a cause to rally behind; an injustice that could be used to launch a challenge to the exclusion of sexual orientation from Alberta's human rights legislation. That injustice would take place on January 28th, 1991 when a laboratory coordinator employed at The King's College would be fired for being gay. This man was Delwin Vriend. Welcome to episode 2 of […]

Vriend Versus Alberta is a special podcast series detailing the ground-breaking Supreme Court ruling that helped pave the way for equality for Canada's 2SLGBTQI+ community.  On January 28, 1991, Delwin Vriend was fired from his job as a laboratory coordinator at The King's College in Edmonton, Alta. because he was gay. Delwin's only recourse was to file a complaint with the Alberta Human Rights Commission. However, in 1991 sexual orientation was not included as a protected ground against discrimination in Alberta's human rights legislation. It was perfectly legal for members of the 2SLGBTQI+ community to be refused service at restaurants, […]

April 2, 2023 is the 25th anniversary of the Supreme Court of Canada's ruling on Vriend v. Alberta. This historic decision paved the way for equality for Canada's 2SLGBTQI+ community. Vriend Versus Alberta is a special podcast series produced by Edmonton Community Foundation and the Edmonton Queer History Project. Written and directed by Darrin Hagen, this project has been 18 months in the making.  The story is told using more than a dozen in-depth interviews with key figures who participated in securing equality for sexual and gender minorities in Canada.  This includes interviews with Delwin Vriend; his legal counsel Sheila […]

On this episode, our correspondent, Aubrianna Snow, takes us on a journey through the Art Gallery of Alberta‘s curatorial process, and how they create art collections and experiences that are accessible to all. We also learn about the vital role endowment funds play in helping the gallery continue its work for generations to come. The original Art Gallery of Alberta Fund was established in December of 1989 by the Poole family – one of the first funds established during ECF inaugural year. This fund alone has provided grants more than $2,000,000 to the Art Gallery since its inception. In anticipation […]

On this episode, we meet Tina Thomas,  Chief Executive Officer at Edmonton Community Foundation (ECF). We are excited to have Tina join our team. ECF is the fourth-largest community foundation in Canada and is the largest non-governmental funder in Edmonton. We distribute more than 30 million dollars into the community annually. Tina joined our team in August of 2022 with a wealth of experience. Before ECF, Tina spent more than 13 years at the Edmonton Public Library (EPL), most recently as the Executive Director of Customer Experience. During her time at EPL, she was responsible for many of their innovative services. […]

On this episode, our correspondent Oumar Salifou learns about the incredible Afro X Latin Festival presented by La Connexional. The Afro X Latin Festival began in 2019 with its first #WinterIsCancelled night, and brings together a diverse representation of African, Caribbean and Latin cultures. Edmonton Community Foundation is proud to be a 2023 sponsor. This year's festival runs from Saturday, February 18th to Sunday, February 26th, and is packed with great events including dance parties and live music. Links: Get your ticket to The Afro X Latin Festival. See their schedule of events. Check out more great things from La […]

On this episode, our correspondent, Aubrianna Snow, learns about how Edmonton's Food Bank goes beyond food to support community members. Edmonton's Food Bank was the very first food bank to  open in Canada, and has been tackling food insecurity since 1981. They provide food and other assistance to thousands of people each month. In the course of a year, the food bank distributes about 6 million kilograms of food. This is help for thousands of individuals and families struggling with food insecurity. In December 2022, Edmonton Community Foundation was able to provide Edmonton's Food Bank with a BIPOC Grant to help […]

On this episode , we discuss the challenges of living with dementia and how one family has come together to support their mom. Dementia can be overwhelming or even scary for those living with the condition and for their families and caregivers. There is still so much we don't know about dementia. It can affect people of various ages, and each person's experience is unique. That is why Candace Smallwood created an endowment fund at ECF. The fund is called Shannon's Fund for Dementia Research. Candace created the fund in honour of her mother-in-law, Shannon Heemeryck, who is living with […]

Edmonton's population is on track to hit 2 million people by 2040. We got curious about what might be next in our city's urban planning. And it turns out, there could be quite a bit of inspiration from the Philippines. On this episode, our correspondent, Emily Rendell-Watson, explores the idea of participatory urban planning. This concept empowers citizens to participate in the design of their city, so that people can achieve self-reliance, sustainable development and social justice. This isn't the first time we've covered the topic of urban planning. In  2021, Julian Faid joined us to produce the Trailhead Series: a history […]

On this episode, our correspondent, Aubrianna Snow, learns about the tremendous community impact of Douglas Mitchell. Douglas held countless titles and honours throughout his life. He was a leading professional in law, a football player for both the BC Lions and Hamilton Tiger-Cats, and an advisor to countless community organizations. More importantly, he was a loving husband to former Alberta Lieutenant Governor, The Honourable Lois Mitchell, and a father of four children. In 2017, Lois and Douglas worked together to create the History and Heroes Foundation, which serves to promote the diverse history of our province and provide funding to […]

On this episode, our correspondent, Emily Rendell-Watson, speaks with Lloyd Cardinal: Co-Chair of EndPovertyEdmonton's Indigenous Circle and this year's Vital Signs Advisory Committee. Edmonton's Vital Signs is an annual check-up that measures how the community is doing. This year's report delves into topics including the history of racism in Edmonton and the ways that systemic racism affects housing, safety, health, education, civic engagement, and more. Although the report is rich with data, it also reveals that the unique experiences of Black, Indigenous, and People of Colour are often not considered in research studies. For instance, the report identifies that there is […]

On this episode, our correspondent, Danielle Paradis, speaks with EndPovertyEdmonton about why affordable and social housing are an important investment for our city.  November is Edmonton's Housing Month, a good time to reflect on housing needs and the work being done locally.  According to Homeward Trust, as of November 2022 there are 2,656 people experiencing homelessness in Edmonton. 47% identify as indigenous. 46% Identify as female. And 19% identify as youth.   But the issue of housing extends beyond being houseless. There are individuals and families whose accommodations aren't suitable, or whose cost is more than 30% of their gross […]

On this episode, we meet Hayat El-Ossmani and Nunu Desalgne — two incredible community leaders here in Edmonton. Nunu and Hayat were recognized for their community work at the 2022 RISE Awards. The RISE Awards are presented by Edmonton Mennonite Centre for Newcomers to recognize immigrant success in Edmonton. Hayat and Nunu received The Community Leadership Award, sponsored by Edmonton Community Foundation. This award recognizes newcomers who demonstrate a commitment to community engagement, with the goal of creating a more welcoming and inclusive community for all. Since 2003, The RISE Awards have celebrated newcomers who have built strong communities through social, cultural and […]

On this episode, we speak with artist Carol Wylie about her exhibition They Didn't Know We Were Seeds. It is an evocative series of portraiture which invites us to consider the parallels between the Holocaust and residential schools, by introducing us to 18 survivors. Understanding the intergenerational trauma experienced by both the Indigenous and Jewish communities, this series is an important way to acknowledge first-hand accounts of survival, and of building a life, family and community after. The Jewish Federation of Edmonton has collaborated with Jewish Family Services, and the Indigenous Services team at Edmonton Public Library to bring this […]