Join us in congratulating Hilja Toom, Martin Kurvits and the Wollondilly Heritage Centre and Museum for their prestigious recognition by the Estonian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Margus Tsahkna, on Citizen’s Day.
On 26 November — Citizen’s Day — Estonia celebrates people across the world who help carry our culture forward. This year, three Australian names were called: Hilja Toom (Victoria), Martin Kurvits (South Australia) and the Wollondilly Heritage Centre and Museum (New South Wales). Their official nominations read as follows:
- Wollondilly Heritage Centre and Museum — for preserving the historical heritage of the Estonian community in Thirlmere.
- Martin Kurvits — for organising the 29th Estonian Festival (Eesti Päevad) in Adelaide.
- Hilja Toom — for her leadership of Melbourne’s Estonian women’s choir, Kodu Kaja.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs presented 34 Letters of Appreciation this year, recognising citizen diplomats and community organisations whose efforts strengthen Estonia’s presence globally. The list of recipients spans Europe, North America, the Middle East and the Asia-Pacific, highlighting the many ways Estonians abroad nurture connection, identity and continuity.
Foreign Minister Margus Tsahkna said this about the importance of these recognitions and the contributions of these dedicated recipients.
“Celebrating Citizen’s Day and keeping it alive is very important for Estonia. Citizen Day reminds us that Estonia’s strength lies in our people — knowledgeable, caring and active citizens who carry our values forward both at home and abroad. Today we recognise those who, through their actions and dedication, have enriched our society and represented Estonia with dignity in the world. Their example inspires us all to preserve and develop a free and open Estonia.”
Citizen’s Day is marked on 26 November, the date when, in 1918, the Estonian Provincial Assembly issued its first regulation on citizenship. Over a century later, the day continues to highlight the value of civic pride and the meaning of showing up for one another — whether in Estonia or half a world away.
Marin Mõttus, the Ambassador at Large for Diaspora, added:
“Citizen diplomacy begins with small conversations and great dreams — every time we, Estonians, speak about our culture internationally and share our story, a new bridge is created between Estonia and the world. These bridges are not made of stone; they are made of trust, creativity and human warmth.”
Our three Australian recipients will receive their formal paper certificates at ceremonies in Melbourne and Sydney.
Acknowledgement
This article is based on information published here: Foreign Ministry Recognises Citizen Diplomats on Citizens Day
Thank you to H.E. Estonian Ambassador to Australia, Jaan Reinhold, for additional information.
We’re grateful to Allan Johanson and Richard Semenov for the photos.
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The Wollondilly Heritage Centre and Museum
Two Estonian Australians, Kristi Barrow and Matti Kiviväli, receive prestigious recognition | HEIA
