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Welcome back to the first Llama Tales of 2026!
Although it's the shortest month of the year, there is so much to look forward to in February. From Black History Month and Lunar New Year events to new members and additions to the Folklorama team. Keep reading to learn more!
| | Discover Folklorama's new members | | |
It is a pleasure to welcome new faces to our talented members group!
Alexandra Blinder (Individual Member)
The Burtons (Performing Member – Group)
Kalipayan Performing Arts Canada (Performing Member – Group)
Marie Laure Mbazoa (Performing Member – Solo)
Gary Senft (Individual Member)
Ryan Spence (Performing Member – Solo)
Ellen Thomson (Sustaining Individual Member)
| | Adelle and Robert Burton (supplied photo) | | February is Black History Month. This year, the theme is "30 Years of Black History Month: Honouring Black Brilliance Across Generations — From Nation Builders to Tomorrow’s Visionaries." We will be sharing events and stories from the Black community and our member initiatives as we commemorate 30 years of Black History Month in Canada. | | |
Lunar New Year is a celebration of the beginning of a new year on the lunisolar calendar. Those celebrating consider it the time of the year to reunite with immediate and extended family. The holiday symbolizes renewal, prosperity, and family unity.
The Lunar New Year falls on February 17th this year.
| | How our members celebrate | | Meet the newest members of the Folklorama team! | | | |
Rachelle Blatta
Coordinator, Digital Marketing
Rachelle Blatta is excited to join the Folklorama team as the new Coordinator, Digital Marketing. A graduate from Red River College Polytechnic, Rachelle completed their diploma in Videography and Motion Graphics, developing a deep appreciation for educating and telling stories through digital mediums. Throughout their career, they have worked to raise awareness for arts organizations and public programs in Winnipeg.
As a long time supporter of Folkorama, Rachelle is looking forward to promoting the upcoming 55th annual festival, and raising awareness for Folklorama's year round initiatives.
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Zoey Magaway
Office Administrator
Zoe Magaway has spent her career supporting programs and operations that celebrate culture and community. She previously worked as a summer intern for Folklorama in 2023 and 2024, gaining valuable experience and while deepening her understanding of the diverse communities the festival celebrates. Growing up, Zoe participated in cultural showcases in her small town of Arborg, experiences that inspired her commitment to supporting and promoting multicultural initiatives throughout her career.
Now, she’s excited to bring her experience to Folklorama in her new role as Office Administrator, supporting the festival and its talented members as they highlight Manitoba’s multicultural diversity.
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Alona McIver
Coordinator, Design, Branding & Communications
Alona McIvor is originally from Ukraine. Before immigrating to Canada, she worked as a Student Advisor, supporting students in achieving their educational and career goals. After moving to Canada, she continued her career in the education sector at Red River College Polytechnic. Eventually, she made a significant career shift to pursue Graphic Design.
After graduating, she joined the Folklorama team and is excited to be part of such a diverse and energetic community. Through her work at Folklorama, she would love to help people connect by sharing their ethno-cultural experiences and education.
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The Council of Caribbean Organizations of Manitoba: Valentine CARNIVAL FÊTE
The Council of Caribbean Organizations of Manitoba are presenting a Valentine Carnival Fête on February 14th at 7:00 pm.
With Carnival Rhythms, Island Energy and Valentine Vibes from DJ No Scratch, come experience a great night of music to celebrate the most romantic night of the year!
February 14, 2026 | 7:00 pm
1100 Fife St
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Asian Women of Winnipeg: International Women's Day Gala Dinner
On behalf of the Asian Women of Winnipeg, you are invited to the International Women's Day Gala Dinner at the RBC Convention Centre.
AWOW will be proudly honouring two Asian women who have made a meaningful difference in our community through their spirit of giving and gaining—leaders who uplift others while continuing to grow themselves.
March 7, 2026 | 5:30 pm
RBC Convention Centre, 375 York Ave
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Winnipeg Chinese Senior Association: Chinese New Year & Lantern Festival
The Winnipeg Chinese Senior Association (WCSO) will be having their annual Chinese New Year & Lantern Festival Celebration. The Lantern Festival, observed on the fifteenth day of the first lunar month, is one of the most cherished traditions in Chinese culture, symbolizing family reunion, renewal, and the hopeful arrival of spring.
This year, WCSO have committed to enhancing the experience by placing a stronger emphasis on authentic cultural practices and encouraging active participation from community members of all generations.
February 28, 2026 | 4:00 pm
Southlands Community Church, 85 Keslar Rd.
| | Folklorama 365: Upcoming events | |
Lunar New Year Calligraphy Workshop
Folklorama invites you to a hands-on cultural experience just in time for the Lunar New Year!
Join us for a guided calligraphy workshop where you will learn traditional brush techniques, the meaning behind auspicious characters, and how to create your very own festive New Year greeting.
February 26, 2026 | 6:00 pm
Pineridge Hollow
| | Applications for the 2026 Mark & Dorothy Danzker Scholarship open soon | | |
Applications for the Mark & Dorothy Danzker Scholarship for Excellence will be opening on February 17th at 10:00 pm.
Presented with the Jewish Foundation of Manitoba, this scholarship is awarded to eight individuals who are actively involved in preserving ethno-cultural heritage through volunteerism and/or employment.
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"The Mark & Dorothy Danzker Scholarship has encouraged me to proudly continue to share my culture with others, not only in cultural spaces, but through everything that I do. It has also provided vital support in funding my final year of university, allowing me to complete my degree in Business Administration. I look forward to continuing to make a positive impact within my community and beyond."
Kaylene Blackwood, 2025 Scholarship Recipient
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Folklorama acknowledges that we create, connect, and celebrate on Treaty 1 territory. We honour the unceded lands and waters of the Anishinaabe (Ojibway), Ininew (Cree), and Dakota peoples, in the National Homeland of the Red River Métis. We recognize and honour that our drinking water comes from Shoal Lake 40 First Nation on Treaty 3 Territory.
We are committed to building relationships and sharing knowledge, and cultural understanding of all communities. Understanding our diversity fosters pride and mutual respect.
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