Ethiopian Renaissance Society
News and Updates
Welcome to ERS News and Updates! Stay informed about our latest events, initiatives, and achievements. Discover how we’re building community, supporting families, preserving heritage, and assisting immigrants. Stay connected with our vibrant community and join us in celebrating our milestones.
Ethiopian 2018 New Year
Festivity Celebrated
Ethiopian Renaissance Society (ERS) organized the Ethiopian New Year Festivity on September 13, 2025, at Coors Event Center, Saskatoon.
The program was very colorful and was attended by more than 150 people. There we many attendees from some African communities.
The ERS Board of Directors acknowledged the contribution and support it received from some organizations and individuals during the last few years and presented a certificate of appreciation.
The social committee members were also given certificate of appreciation. Mr. Senos, the CEO of Peopls’ Bridge, was invited to express his new year message to the attendees. The informal assessment we made indicated that participants were pleased with the food served, the music and dance, and other program components.
ERS whole heartily acknowledged Coors Event Center for providing the hall facility free of charge and others who made this happen.
ERS organized a summer camping program for children – September 2025
Ethiopian Renaissance Society (ERS) organized a summer camping program to children, youth and families for three days (August 30 to September 1, 2025). The purpose of the camping was to bring together the community members and have fun before the beginning of the first semester class. The camping was done about 220 Kms south of Saskatoon (Rovans Revine).
African children's
cultural exchange program
On July 26, 2025, ERS proudly organized a cultural exchange program for young children of African origin, bringing together dozens of participants from diverse backgrounds to celebrate and share their rich heritage. The half-day event featured interactive storytelling, traditional music and dance, art workshops, and cultural games, creating a joyful space where children could express their identities and learn from one another. Dressed in vibrant traditional attire, the children showcased songs, languages, and customs from their communities, while also building friendships and deepening their appreciation for Africa’s cultural diversity. Families and guardians looked on with pride as their children engaged in the colorful activities, and ERS extended heartfelt thanks to all participants whose efforts made the day a meaningful and memorable celebration of unity and pride.
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ERS Children’s Wellness and Cultural Engagement Programs – June 2025
In June 2025, the Ethiopian Renaissance Society (ERS) hosted a series of engaging programs for children under 18, combining health, culture, and fun. A three-part literacy program, led by Dr. Decon Samuel Getnet, taught kids how to stay healthy and appreciate cultural values. Later, on June 29, ERS held a joyful multicultural event at Fun Factory, coordinated by board members Mrs. Feteh Derese and Mrs. Meseret Worku.
Adwa Victory: A Symbol of African Pride
The Ethiopian Renaissance Society (ERS) celebrated the 129th Adwa Victory on March 2, 2024, at Sacred Heart Chaldean Church. The event featured children’s drama, poems, songs, and speeches by elders commemorating Adwa’s legacy. The Battle of Adwa resulted from Italy’s attempt to colonize Ethiopia in the late 19th century. The controversial Wuchale Treaty, signed on May 2, 1889, led to conflicting interpretations between Emperor Menelik II and the Italian government. Italy declared war, leading to the decisive battle on March 1, 1896, where Ethiopian forces, largely composed of peasants, defeated and humiliated the Italian army. Adwa’s victory was the first major defeat of a European power by an African force during the colonial era, halting Italy’s expansion and inspiring African nations. ERS commemorated this historic day, honoring King Menelik II and the heroes who sacrificed for Ethiopia’s freedom.
ERS Hosts Women's Discussion Session in Saskatoon
ERS organized a meaningful half-day discussion for women and young females of Ethiopian descent in Saskatoon on November 9, 2024, at Sacred Heart Chaldean Church. This women-only event provided a safe space for participants to share experiences, exchange insights, and reflect on the challenges they face as members of the Ethiopian diaspora. The gathering fostered community and empowerment, allowing women to connect, learn, and discuss best practices for navigating life in a new cultural context. The event was celebrated by a close-knit group of 15-20 people, making it a vibrant and memorable occasion.
Ethiopian New Year Festivity
Ethiopian Renaissance Society (ERS) organized the Ethiopian New Year Festivity on September 14, 2024, at Coors Event Center, Saskatoon. The program was very colorful and was attended by more than 200 people. There we many Eritrean community members, and attendees from some African and Asian communities. One of the things making this year's celebration different is that about key office representatives (including the city council, former mayor of Saskatoon, religious fathers, Saskatoon police office...etc) attended the event. The informal assessment we made indicated that participants were pleased with the food served, the music and dance, and other program components. ERS whole heartily acknowledged Coors Event Center for providing the hall facility free of charge and others who made this happen.
Adult literacy program on
health and finance
On August 10, 2024, the Ethiopian Renaissance Society organized a one-day adult literacy program focused on health and finance. The event began with a 90-minute session on health literacy, led by Dr. Amanuel Tirukelem, who covered essential topics such as diet, chronic diseases, exercise, sleep, sedentary lifestyles, and the importance of regular health check-ups and screenings. Following a 30-minute coffee break, the program continued with a two-hour session on financial literacy, facilitated by Mr. Tofik Fete, a TD Bank branch manager, and Dr. Fuad Yasin. This session delved into key financial topics, including saving, budgeting, investment, loans, and mortgages. The event was attended by approximately 25 people, all of whom benefitted from the insightful discussions and practical advice provided during the sessions.
Networking and welcoming program
On August 3, 2024, the ERS Board members visited Regina, about 258 kilometers south of Saskatoon, to establish formal collaborations with a sister organization there. The discussions covered a range of topics, including sharing best practices, addressing major challenges, exploring funding sources, and planning joint programs. Both groups agreed to commence collaborative activities in September/August 2024, starting with a youth soccer match between teams from both cities, and to use the traditional flag without the star emblem in future communications. Upon returning, the ERS Board, their families, and newcomers attended a dinner reception, welcoming about 30 attendees.
Panel discussion
ERS organized a panel discussion on issues of common concern, focusing on the Ethiopia’s current situation and prospects, and cordially invited all Ethiopians and other interested fellows living in Saskatoon held on 19 August, 2023, at Shaw Centre 122 Bowlt Crescent, S7M 0L1, at 1 pm. The discussion was fruitful in addressing the core issues surrounding the people of Ethiopia, especially the warn torn regions of Amhara, Tigray and Afar. The participants concluded the discussion with issuing a voice to the war victims in Ethiopia.
Freezing of Local Amharic Radio program transmission
The Ethiopian Renaissance Society (ERS), a registered non-profit (Business No 757362801), started a weekly Amharic radio program on CFCR in January 2022 to serve as a voice for Ethiopians in Saskatoon, promoting culture, music, and values. However, due to a shortage of volunteers and low community engagement, the ERS Board has decided to discontinue the program effective August 14, 2023.
New year dinner party
Ethiopian Renaissance Society (ERS) managing Board of Directors organized an Ethiopian new year dinner party, held on September 16, 2023, starting at 6.00 PM. The dinner party has primarily aimed at strengthening unity, solidarity and collegiality among Ethiopians and friends of Ethiopia. Close to 100 people attended this program. The party was held at Sacred Heart Chaldean Church, Saskatoon, SK S7J 1G6
Celebrating the victory of Adwa
The Battle of Adwa, a symbol of African pride, occurred due to Italy's colonization attempt and the disputed Wuchale Treaty of 1889. Misinterpretations of Article XVII led to conflict. On March 1, 1896, King Menilek II's Ethiopian forces defeated Italy. The Treaty of Addis Ababa in October 1896 nullified Italy's claims over Ethiopia. ERS commemorates this victory and honors Ethiopian heroes, while remembering recent tragedies in Ethiopia.
Community Initiative Fund (CIF)
The Ethiopian Renaissance Society (ERS) has received funding for community initiative program based on a proposal submitted to CIF. The funding is meant to be used for the year 2024 (May 2024 to April 2025) to empower the Ethiopian diaspora living in and around Saskatoon through community-based activities. Upon receipt of the signed Agreement, the CIF issued an initial grant payment representing 80% of the approved grant funds.
Board members training held
The Ethiopian Renaissance Society (ERS) conducted a one-day training session for its Board of Directors on 26 May 2024 at Saskatoon Lake wood civic center. The main purpose of the training was enhancing the implementation capacities of the board members. The training session, among other things, contained key issues around finance and logistic administration, communication, operational duties, auding and treasury.
Youth and children soccer program
The Ethiopian Renaissance Society (ERS) conducted a soccer program for youth and children on May 2024. The program has primarily aimed at strengthening solidarity among the Ethiopian diaspora living in and around Saskatoon, Canada. More than 50 people (including children, youth and their parents) attended this program.