Subscribe Menu

Estonian Foundation in Canada scholarship fellow Aleksander Mell


Aleksander Mell
is an Estonian-Canadian university student who received a 2020 EFC Scholarship with funding from the new Martin & Heljo Mäeks Fund. Aleksander is currently completing the second year of a B. Sc. in Wildlife Biology and Conservation at the University of Guelph.

Even while away at University, Aleksander continues to volunteer in the Estonian community as a scout leader, organizing virtual scout meetings. He has been a part of scouting for 14 years, including Kotkajärve camp. Aleksander also attended Estonian Kindergarten, Jõekääru, Volleyball Camp.

On being Estonian
Being Estonian in Canada means that I have access to a variety of cultural, sporting and heritage events. I know the impact of listening to thousands of people coming together singing during the Song Festival, and how meaningful community is. I am part of a community that feels pride in their history and culture. I have been able to learn about how my ancestors lived and have been able to partake in traditional Estonian events. Due to my involvement in the community I have connection to nature all year round just as other generations in family that have. I’ve been exposed to the peace of attending hiis (sacred natural site) during my many summers attending Kotkajärve scout camp.

I know that being part of a community is a shared responsibility and I always feel connected and accepted when in company with Estonians. Being Estonian is part of my identity. It has offered me the opportunity to maintain my heritage and to make connections I would not be able to make elsewhere.

On EFC
The Estonian Foundation of Canada (EFC) provides economic support to the Estonian community in Canada. EFC focuses its attention on ensuring ongoing vitality of our community. EFC supports organizations and individuals. By being a central point for donations, EFC also simplifies the act of making donations to support the Estonian community in Canada. The EFC keeps our community funded, and provides the opportunity for individuals of our community to come together and celebrate being Estonian.