Creative Foundation Inc

The Creative Foundation Inc (CFI) was registered in The nonprofit organization is the brainchild of internationally-acclaimed artist, innovator and educator, Yisa Akinbolaji. The Red River College, Winnipeg was were the event of the Creative Foundation Inc first held in Canada. Approximately 200 students benefited from the educationally stimulating exchange between professionals and students. The speakers came from across section of professional backgrounds from philosophers to graphic designer, teacher, architect and author. 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 Samuel Afolayan, an architect and former lecturer at the Kwara State Polytechnic, in Nigeria, Karim Dharamsi, a philosophy lecturer at the University of Winnipeg, Ms. Mitzi Ezzat is a practicing dentist in Winnipeg, while Frank Reimer and Ms. Rosie Hernandez are designers. Frank Reimer currently teach at the advertising art department, Red River College. The afternoon was fun filled with cultural dances, mime and musical performances. Both students and there teachers went on stage to dance. The Director of Music, Creative Foundation Inc; Patrick Keenan 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 President during the dance session. Yisa Akinbolaji, Founder of this Foundation which began in Nigeria, in 1994 and President of the Winnipeg Chapter, thanked Red River College and all the participants and speakers for helping to keep the vision alive. He also thank God - the driving force in everything he does. Two lecture theaters 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 honor 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 traveled and has taught in Nigeria. Mr. Larry Partap's wonderful support in terms of encouragement and suggestions have brightened the event of the Foundation in Winnipeg. Larry has been employed at the Red River College for over two decades. He is currently the Act. Chair, Creative Arts, Red River College. Mr. Bruce Waldie was also among the recipients of the Foundation's First Mentor Award, He 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.