This year’s recipient is Taavo Ruberg. Taavo is 18 years old and currently in his first year of studies in computer science at UBC.
He was the saxophonist in several ensembles at the West Coast Estonian Festival this past summer. He is a member of Vancouver’s St. Peter’s Estonian Lutheran Church where he was confirmed.
Taavo also won the following scholarships: UBC President’s Entrance Scholarship, British Columbia Provincial Examination Scholarship and the West Vancouver Teachers’ Association Scholarship for outstanding achievement. The latter was awarded in recognition of academic standing, community contribution in music and achievements in world-level computer-based strategy gaming.
Until recently, Taavo and his father, Kalev, were active in Scouting and numerous other activities in the Toronto Estonian community. Taavo’s grandfather was the late Endel Ruberg, the renowned Estonian artist and patriot.