Excelling in the Midst of Adversity: Interview with Kristina Põldre

A collaboration between Chaordic Design and Estonian Life

In our last segment, we explored how adaptation works as a strategy for success. Through her community and professional activity, Kristina Põldre has observed the signals of change, with bilingualism being an important recurring theme in her involvement. Kristina is very active in the Estonian academic community of Toronto, as a member and esinaine (president) of Korporatsioon Amicitia. She has been a part of rahvatants (folk dance), and works professionally as a Project Manager at Mount Sinai Hospital here in Toronto.

In what ways do you see your membership in Korporatsioon Amicitia as a way to lead the Estonian community as a whole?

When I joined Korp! Amicitia back in 2009, I was one of a few non-Estonian speakers. Despite my language limitations, I was welcomed with open arms. When I earned my colours and became a full member, I remained active and gradually worked my way up through various leadership positions, all the way to esinaine the year we celebrated our 90th anniversary, which was five years ago. This was a significant milestone for us as an organization, as I was the first non-Estonian speaking leader the Toronto chapter ever had.

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