New director joins International Estonian Centre Inc. board
- ellenvalter
- Oct 11
- 3 min read
Update #264
KESKUS project gains new team member: Rob Zeidler
International Estonian Centre Inc., is pleased to announce the appointment of Rob Zeidler to its board of directors. Rob joins at a pivotal moment as the KESKUS project begins the transition of its focus from construction to operations.
The board seat was vacant since Peter Ojala retired, not just from a long and successful career as a structural engineer, but also from IECI's board, to enjoy retirement living in Quebec and to travel. Peter's expertise was invaluable during the critical construction phases of KESKUS. His guidance helped ensure the project moved forward at tricky junctures and heartfelt thanks go to Peter for contributing his considered and practical advice.
Now, as the focus shifts to how the KESKUS building will hum, Rob’s experience is especially relevant. As President of The Dabbert Group, Rob spearheaded the transformation of Hamilton’s historic Cotton Factory into a thriving community for tenants, creators, and collaborators.
IECI board chair Heili Toome noted "Rob's thoughtful approach to The Cotton Factory has resulted in a building that is vibrant, with multi-use spaces that foster innovation and connection—precisely the kind of energy that will define KESKUS."
Rob's connection to the Estonian community is extensive, hosting the Hamilton Estonian School at The Cotton Factory, singing with the Hamilton Estonian Mixed Choir and at Laulupidu (Estonia's quinquennial song festival), creator of the Nordic Artists' exchange that has exchanged artists between Canada and Estonia since 2017, and volunteers with various Estonian initiatives. In recognition of his contributions, Rob has received numerous honours, including the Citizen Diplomat Award from Estonia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (2021).
One of the Nordic Artist Exchange programs included a co-operation effort with Estonian Arts Centre, the charity associated with KESKUS. Textile artists Kärt Ojavee & Johanna Ulfsak came Toronto and Hamilton to work with architect Alar Kongats in designing a 650 m2 interactive curtain, for which the KESKUS project continues to plan.
Rob’s professional background includes senior leadership roles at Brookfield Properties, Oxford Properties, and First Capital Realty, overseeing complex redevelopment projects across Ontario. His long-standing volunteer service with organizations such as St. John Ambulance, and the NATO Association of Canada underscores his commitment to the values he holds, ones shared by so many in the Estonian community.
We are delighted to welcome Rob to the board and look forward to his leadership as KESKUS opens its doors and begins its first chapter as a home for culture, innovation, and community.
Discover the benefits of giving wisely, to a project that will endure
Please join the growing list of KESKUS capital campaign donors to help bring this extraordinary project to completion. KESKUS leadership donors are recognized here.
There are many ways to make a contribution to KESKUS.
To donate, click here, or call +1.647.250.7136 or email donations@estoniancentre.ca. Donations may be made as a family gift, or in honour of an individual or family. All donations are issued a tax receipt, in Canada via Estonian Arts Centre, US tax receipts via Myriad USA and Estonian tax receipts via Eesti Rahvuskultuuri Fond. Donations; by credit card may be made here.
Legacy gifts made to the Estonian Arts Centre, the charity associated with KESKUS, are creative and tax-effective ways to provide support. These are known as “planned gifts” because with thoughtful planning, we create a win-win situation that benefits both you and our community for generations to come. Find out how to provide a bequest in your will by going to www.estoniancentre.ca/bequest.
For information on making other types of planned giving, including gifts of appreciated securities or insurance policies, or if you have any other questions, please contact EAC Donations Manager Taimi Hooper via email at donations@estoniancentre.ca or phone +1.647.250.7136.
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