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Scholarship Information 2024 / 2025
IMANTA Latvian Society of Edmonton is pleased to announce the Dr. Ena Rudovics Memorial Scholarship for 2024/2025. Our program is dedicated to honouring Ena’s legacy of community leadership and nurturing the values she championed. Funds for this program are allocated in accordance with the Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Commission’s approved use of casino proceeds for the Society.
Scholarship Eligibility
The scholarship is open to:
– Alberta residents who are Canadian citizens, landed immigrants, or foreign students on visa and are registered as full or part-time students as defined by the accredited or licensed educational institution
– Applicants who are registered in a Continuing Education course related to a career goal
Eligible Institutions
All accredited post-secondary educational institutions in Canada. Such institutions include universities, colleges, polytechnics, and trades training institutions that the Advisory Committee is satisfied are duly accredited or licensed.
Scholarship Award Criterion
Applications will be evaluated based on the applicant’s response to the application question (or requirements). Other criteria that may be considered are the applicant’s demonstration of leadership, volunteerism or community involvement and/or academic record.
Evaluation Process
Applications will be evaluated by an advisory committee consisting of at least one IMANTA board member and two members from the community at large. The committee will present its recommendations to the Executive for approval. IMANTA’s Executive retains final approval over the selection of scholarship recipients.
Application Process
All applicants must complete and submit the attached application form along with the four requirements as listed on the form. The deadline for scholarship applications relating to enrollment in the 2024/2025 fall/winter program or 2025 spring/summer program must be received by IMANTA no later than October 30, 2024. Awards will be announced in November 2024. Payment will be made directly to the individual upon submission of proof of attendance (i.e. tuition receipt) at the recognized educational institution.
Submit applications by email to:
The Edmonton Latvian Society ‘Imanta’
Attn: Adjudication Committee
imantaedmonton@gmail.com
Ena Rudovics – Dec.1, 1953 – Aug.10, 2024
It is with heavy hearts that we announce the passing of our dear Ena.
https://pointewestfuneral.com/obituary/rudovics-dr-ena-agnes/
CANCELLED – Līgo 2024
We regret to inform you that due to unexpected circumstances, we have made the difficult decision to cancel Ligo 2024 which was scheduled for June 22nd. This decision was not made lightly, but unfortunately, we have faced challenges in securing enough volunteers and a sufficient level of interest to ensure the event’s success.
We understand that many of you were looking forward to Ligo, and we sincerely apologize for any inconvenience this cancellation may cause. Please know that this decision was made with careful consideration of all factors involved, and our primary concern is to deliver a high-quality experience that meets your expectations.
We appreciate your understanding and support during this time. We remain committed to providing meaningful and engaging events in the future and hope to count on your participation then. Thank you for your understanding.
If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to reach out to us at imantaedmonton@gmail.com
Ligo – Save the date – June 2024
Sanāksim kopā Jāņos, Sestdien 22 Jūnijā! Lets get together for Jāņi, Saturday June 22!
Kur/Where: Laurier Heights Community Hall and park with outdoor patio, 14405 85 Avenue, NW, Edmonton, Laiks/Time: 2PM-10PM Ieeja/Admission: Brīva/Free
Imanta will be serving up hamburgers and sausage with potato salad, available for purchase from 5:00 to 6:30 pm. There will be a cash bar (beer and other canned beverages). Activities planned for adults and children – flower wreaths, Jāņu cheese, pirags contest (bring your best!) and raffle items. Alcohol consumption is only allowed indoors and the patio area. No alcohol in the park. Potluck-style desserts would be appreciated!
If you would like more information, please contact us! imantaedmonton@gmail.com
AGM – March 23, 2024
The Board Members of the Edmonton Latvian Society
Imanta
extend a warm invitation to
members, volunteers, friends, and supporters to this year’s AGM.
Please join us as we host our Annual General Meeting and review the successes and challenges of the past year. We are always looking for new active members and new ideas! Support us, become a member, join our board!
Location: Laurier Heights Community Hall
14405 85 Avenue, Edmonton, AB
Saturday, March 23, 2024. Doors open 1:00pm,
Meeting called at 1:15pm.
Refreshments served. Latvian School of Edmonton Movie: Daudz Laimes Latvija!
We look forward to seeing you!
World Cup Biathlon – Canmore, Alberta
World Cup Biathlon is thrilled to announce that the BMW IBU World Cup Biathlon (International Biathlon Union) www.biathlonworld.com tour is returning to Canmore, Alberta for the final events of the season from March 14th to March 17th, 2024. This is an incredible opportunity to witness the best athletes from 25 different countries including Latvia to compete in thrilling Sprint, Pursuit, and Mass Start races.
World Cup Biathlon invites you to join and be a part of the excitement by cheering along the course. Entry to the event is absolutely free, so don’t forget to bring your flags and bells to show your support for the talented biathletes. Biathlon is the most popular winter sport on television in Europe, offering plenty of action and entertainment.
For those unable to attend in person, all races will be streamed live. The link can be found at www.biathlonworld.com. You can find the schedule and live results on the official IBU website at https://www.biathlonresults.com/
Simply select World Cup and scroll down to find the Canmore events.
Canmore offers ample space for spectators, so gather your friends and family and make a day or weekend out of it. Let’s surprise the biathletes with a sea of “hometown” flags along the trails!
As this is the final World Cup of the season, the prestigious Crystal Globes will be awarded here.
Aside from the thrilling biathlon action, Canmore has plenty to offer. Explore the charming town and immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty of the Canadian Rockies.
Mark your calendars and get ready to be a part of this incredible event!
Call for Artists

Artist registration for the art exhibition is now open! If you are a visual artist interested in participating, please send an email to dzsv.maksla@gmail.com before March 17th. Once we receive your email, we will get back to you with more information about the art exhibition as well as everything you need to submit your artwork. Looking forward to hearing from you!
Mākslinieku reģistrācija mākslas izstādei ir tagad atvērta! Ja Jūs interesē pieteikt savus mākslas darbus izstādei, lūdzu sūtiet e-pastu uz: dzsv.maksla@gmail.com līdz 17. martam. Saņemot Jūsu e-pastu, atsūtīsim visu vajadzīgo informāciju par mākslas izstādi, kā arī informāciju par to, kā iesniegt savus mākslas darbus.
February 2024 Newsletter
It is with much love and sadness that the family announces the peaceful passing of our beloved Helen Richards (1928-2024), on February 11, 2024, the day after her 96th birthday. Helen Voley Frey was born in Edmonton to Latvian immigrant parents and lived here her entire life. Helen was very involved in the Latvian community up to this past year. It’s evident that she had a remarkable and fulfilling life, dedicated to her community and those around her. Her contributions to the Latvian community, particularly her involvement as a board member and her commitment to helping newcomers, showcase her kindness and generosity.It’s heartwarming to know that she shared her artistic talents with Latvian school children, leaving a lasting impact on the younger generation. Her involvement in various Latvian community activities reflects a life well-lived and a legacy that will be remembered fondly by those who had the privilege of knowing her. Helen’s vibrant spirit and selfless contributions to the Latvian community will forever be remembered. May her enthusiasm for life inspire us all to embrace each day with love, just as she did. A Celebration of Helen’s Life will be held on Saturday, February 24, 2024, at 10:00 a.m. at Connelly-McKinley Downtown Funeral Home, 10011 – 114 Street NW, Edmonton. In lieu of flowers, please consider donating to Helen’s favourite charities, the Salvation Army or the Laurier Heights Building Society.
Salvation Army Edmonton
Laurier Heights Building Society
To send condolences and/or tributes please visit Connelly-Mckinley Funeral Home:
Helen Richards Obituary
Other News
Imanta celebrates 77 years on March 8th! Despite all the challenges we are still an active society and the oldest active Latvian organization in Canada. We are hopeful that we can keep Imanta up and running for many more years.
Viola Baker, one of the founders of Imanta, recently celebrated her 102nd birthday! Peter Green celebrated his 103rd birthday! These are truly remarkable achievements. These individuals, as founding and active members of Imanta, have not only witnessed the passage of time but have contributed to the community’s growth and spirit over the years.
Please join us as we host our AGM and review the successes and challenges of the past year. We are always looking for a new active members and new ideas. Support us, become a member or join our board!
Location: Laurier Heights Community Hall 14405 85 Avenue, Edmonton, AB
Saturday, March 23rd, 2024. Doors open at 12:00pm. Meeting called at 1:15pm. Refreshments will be served. We look forward to seeing you!

