On May 15, 1989, the first group of EBS students arrived in Toronto – mid-level business people who had their first practical and theoretical encounter with capitalism through York University. To achieve this, the Estonian community in Toronto raised over a quarter of a million dollars for the educational bridge and to support the students. In May 2024, exactly 35 years later, representatives of the International Estonian Centre gathered in Tallinn to look back on the beginning of EBS and introduce the KESKUS project located in Toronto.KESKUS is a centennial project for Estonians, bringing together economic contacts, strengthening Estonia's security, and helping to promote culture. The center is under construction and currently needs support from every Estonian to bring the idea to fruition.
We met with the guests from Toronto at EBS, where they were welcomed by Chancellor Mart Habakuk, who assured them that we are doing everything on our part to support the construction of KESKUS. Are Veski, one of those for whom the summer of 1989 was a turning point, fondly recalled the bright summer 35 years ago. "Back then, I thought to myself that I was waiting for the day when Estonia would transition from a country receiving aid to a country giving aid, and that time is now. We can give back the good that was once given to us," Are reminisced.
EBS alumnus, real estate developer, and chairman of the Hepsor board Andres Pärloja explained the reasons why Hepsor has become a significant donor to KESKUS (over $100,000). Andres talked about the broader perspective, the importance of a healthy and strong global Estonian community from a security standpoint, and how KESKUS is, in this respect, an important milestone. He also mentioned how Estonian communities have strengthened Hepsor's business, and KESKUS is its expression.
KESKUS project manager Ellen Valter thanked EBS for their thoughtful contribution to supporting the construction of KESKUS. "Support continues to oscillate across the ocean. EBS and its alumni have shown generosity towards the KESKUS project. Everyone donates within their means, and any support is highly valuable to us – many thanks for what has been done!" Ellen said.
Ellen wanted to emphasize that Estonians have never undertaken such a large project outside of Estonia before, and she encourages every EBS alumnus to support the project. KESKUS can be supported through the Eesti Rahvuskultuuri Fond.
According to the current schedule, the KESKUS building should be ready for opening celebrations by the end of 2025. All information is available on the website www.estoniancentre.ca, and everyone is very welcome to Toronto!
