1999
Title:
Creative Foundation Inc. in 1999 was first launched at Red River College in North AmericaAuthor:
Beatrice WatsonDate:
1999
When first launched in Winnipeg in 1999, approximately 200 students benefited from the educationally stimulating exchange between professionals and students. The speakers came from a cross-section of professional backgrounds from philosophers to graphic designers, teachers, architects, and authors. Mr. Dave Williamson, who is an accomplished author presented a keynote address to declare the interactive seminar and workshop open.
Well-known Caribbean poet, Ms. Madeline Coopsammy, was among the presenters. She was impressed with the interest the students showed in the program. Other presenters whose papers inspired the students were Dr. Samuel Afolayan, an architect and former lecturer at the Kwara State Polytechnic, in Nigeria; Dr. Karim Dharamsi, a philosophy lecturer at the University of Winnipeg, Ms. Mitzi Ezzat is a practicing dentist in Winnipeg, while Mr. Frank Reimer and Ms. Rosie Hernandez are designers.
The afternoon was fun filled with cultural dances, mimes, and musical performances. Both students and their teachers went on stage to dance. During the dance session, Patrick Keenan, the Director of Music, Creative Foundation Inc; led the musical group while Ms. Bola Olorundare, the Director of storytelling and dance of the Foundation led the Ariya Afrika Cultural Group of which she is also the CEO.
Yisa Akinbolaji, founder of the organization originally established in Nigeria in 1994 before making Winnipeg his new home, expressed heartfelt appreciation to Red River College, along with all the speakers and participants. He acknowledged their support in inspiring the youth of our community to build a solid academic foundation for future success and to foster a sense of Canadian pride. Above all, he extended thanks to God, whom he credits as the guiding force behind all his endeavors.
Two lecture theatres were used to accommodate students that registered from across various School Divisions in Winnipeg. Ms. Kenny Daodu and Eleanor Coopsammy, the Secretary of the Creative Foundation were the Masters of Ceremony for the event. Other distinguished dignitaries include Mr. Gerald Folkerts, the President of the Manitoba Society of Artists, Mr. Duncan McMonagle, journalism instructor at the Red River College and Ms. Lori Skinner, Co-ordinator, International Education, Red River College.
There were three Creative Foundation Awards presented during the event, to honour those who have made distinguished contributions to education, their society, and the Creative Foundation program. They were Ms. Barbara Dixon, Multicultural Community Liaison Officer, Red River College. Barbara is well travelled and has taught in Nigeria. Mr. Larry Partap's wonderful support in terms of encouragement and suggestions has brightened the event of the Foundation in Winnipeg. Larry has been employed at the Red River College for over two decades. Mr. Bruce Waldie is the Principal of Frontenac School, St. Boniface School Division in Winnipeg and his contributions to meaningful education and support to the Creative Foundation caught the attention of the Board of Trustees.
