The Bikila award of Toronto awarded Ethiopians that have made exceptional contributions in several streams.
The organization presented the Bikila Award which was named after the famous Ethiopian Olympic Hero Abebe Bikila ..
In a sold out dinner gala of elegance at the Daniel Spectrum, downtown Toronto, Bikila Award recognized individuals from various walks of live and offered scholarships to students with higher academic excellence.
This year Bikila awarded the late Aklilu Habetewold who was minister of foreign Affairs during emperor Haileselassie’s era with the order of The Shining Star. The life time achievement award was presented to Colonel Semret Methane for his role and dedication in transforming Ethiopian Airlines and Ethiopian Air force.
Most of the participants were waiting impatiently to see and meet Yetnebersh Nigussie who was recognized for her professional excellence in advocating for the inclusion of people with disabilities.
Elias wondimu who in his acceptance speech urged every one to preserve and pass on Ethiopia’s history through books received professional excellence award. Dr IbrahimYimer and Mr. Tessema Bitew were awarded for their professional excellence in aerospace research and community services respectively .
Soleyana Gedlu , kedous Mekbib, Angel Ayele Lainscek and Bethel Solomon received Academic Excellence awards .
The prominent psychiatrist, author and motivational speaker Dr. Mehret Debebe and the managing Director and board member for Rhino Group executive adviser to Blackstone and member of board for FinDev Canada , Mim alemayhou were the two keynote speakers of the event .
The EBS TV talkshow host and senior executive Helen Mesfin hosted this year’s event.
Photos by Johnny Ayalew and Estubdink
