The Ethnocultural Council of Manitoba – Stronger Together (ECCM) held its Annual Dinner on Tuesday, December 10 at the Canad Inns Polo Park. Community leaders, activists, and supporters from the city’s multicultural community started trickling in at 5:30 pm by the registration desk then made their way to the 400-seater Ambassador Ballroom, anticipating another memorable evening. The theme for this year’s dinner was “Equality: Reducing Inequalities and Advancing Human Rights,” as ECCM scheduled it on International Human Rights Day.
While waiting for the program to start, guests mingled and took turns having snapshots at the Kenrein Photobooth which was set up near the ballroom entrances. The evening kicked off at 6 pm with introductions from the emceeing tandem of Immigrant Centre Manitoba’s Roselyn Advincula and local media personality Big Bubba B, who is known for his engaging presence and ability to bring people together. This was followed by an invocation from Elder Albert McLeod who shared insights rooted in Indigenous wisdom and experience. Afterward, ECCM Co-Chairs Perla Javate and Shakila Atayee set the tone for the evening with their welcome remarks. A highlight of the event was the keynote speech delivered by Mohammad Rezai, Winnipeg School Division Assistant Superintendent of Anti-Racism, Equity, and Climate Justice, who shared a thought-provoking perspective about being grateful to the various members of the community for the important roles they play in everyday life.
Guests enjoyed their dinner while enjoying a vibrant array of entertainment. Performances included soulful songs from Alejandra Nikkel and Chizoba, a poignant poem recital by Keno, and dynamic displays from the Beat Bliss Drumming Group and Braxa Dance Group. The entertainment not only celebrated cultural diversity but also lived up to the spirit of unity and strength in diversity.
Next, Mohomed Jumeyli, Founder & CEO of Mr. Calzone shared about his journey from being a new immigrant to his transition to entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of resourcefulness, resilience and reciprocating the much-needed support he received from the community. This was followed by a captivating performance from the Nepali Dance Group, showcasing the rich cultural heritage of their community.
The evening concluded with remarks from ECCM Co-Chairs and other community leaders, who were joined onstage by IPW Executive Director Reuben Garang and Kate Kehler, Executive Director of IPW’s host agency — the Social Planning Council of Winnipeg. During this portion, it was announced that ECCM will be moving on from its formative phase of being supported by IPW to functioning as a fully-independent organization. The evening culminated with closing remarks from ECCM project coordinator Muuxi Adam who encouraged community members to consider joining ECCM’s upcoming functional committees on areas such as Membership, Policy and Research, Social, Mental, and Economic Well-being for Youth and Business.
As the event came to a close, attendees left with renewed energy and a shared vision for a better future, eager to continue their work in advancing diversity and inclusivity, alongside human rights and equality in their communities.