Get to know the committee
EstWest is run by a passionate team of volunteers who make up our committee. Each member brings their own skills, ideas, and energy to help grow and support our community. From organising events to strategic planning, they’re the friendly faces working behind the scenes to keep things running smoothly.
Our committee is elected annually at the Annual General Meeting (AGM), where all members have the chance to nominate, vote, or stand for a position. It’s a great way to get involved and help shape the future of EstWest!
Marin Hicks - President
What first sparked your interest in getting involved with the Estonian Cultural Association of Western Australia?
Lack of Estonian culture, events, gatherings, activities for kids and grownups in Perth and overall Western Australia.
Can you tell us a little about your professional background (areas of expertise, professional roles, education etc.)
I have worked in hospitality industry since I was 15. I have been a cleaner, kitchen hand, bar person, wait person, front desk, supervisor, manager as well as co-owner of a country pub. I and qualified chef as well as I have a diploma of hospitality management. On top of it all I am also qualified cider maker so I guess I have my retirement plan sorted. I have also worked as a support worker for people with disabilities which has been my most rewarding job.. so I guess I can say I enjoy anything to do with socializing people with all sort of backgrounds and interests.
What kind of impact do you hope to make through your involvement with the Estonian Cultural Association of Western Australia?
I would love for myself, my family and friends to have regular access to Estonian culture, events and gatherings we can all enjoy and be part of an amazing community with our own secret language.
In another life, I'm pretty sure I was….
Someone from a “Tõde ja õigus” era
What are some causes you care about?
Accessible Estonian culture in Perth and WA to anyone interested, Estonian language camps, children’s and youth activities to make them feel included and interested, folk dance and choir, men shed, adult only gatherings to enjoy kids free time
How do you keep connected to your Estonian roots while living in a different culture?
I stay in touch with my family and friends, visit each other whenever possible, stay tuned with Estonian news, celebrate Estonian traditions with Estonian food and drinks. regular catch ups with like-minded Estonians to allow myself and kids to speak and practice the language.
Do you have any skills or talents that most people don’t know about?
I played piano accordion for 8 years at music school.
If you could share one thing about Estonian culture that you think everyone should know, what would it be?
Estonian language can be tricky to learn. It's often even trickier to approach an Estonian, let alone have a small talk. Easiest way to break the ice is to say something obvious in Estonian like “tere” (hello), “kuidas läheb?” (How are you?) or something funny. I can guarantee that will bring at least a tiny smile on their face.
Viktoria Saar - Vice President
What first sparked your interest in getting involved with the Estonian Cultural Association of Western Australia?
I've always been actively involved in the community, having run the Estonian playgroup for many years. With the growing Estonian population here, I believed there was a real need for a proper registered association—but I never imagined that I would be one of the few to help establish it.
Can you tell us a little about your professional background (areas of expertise, professional roles, education etc.)
I studied journalism & public relations, mass media, and communication, but now work in HR at the Chamber of Commerce and Industry WA, with qualifications in that field as well. I'm passionate about writing, communication, photography, and building meaningful connections through networking, influencing, and negotiating. I also love working with children, as their creativity and fresh perspectives are always inspiring.
What kind of impact do you hope to make through your involvement with the Estonian Cultural Association of Western Australia?
I hope we can bring more joy and a sense of community by introducing fresh approaches to how an association can be run. It doesn’t have to be political or strictly traditional—we aim to blend cultures while also sharing and celebrating the best of Estonian heritage. I hope to put my negotiating, networking, and grant writing skills to good use because I believe the Estonian community in WA deserves a space of its own. By working together toward this goal, I’m confident we can make it a reality.
In another life, I'm pretty sure I was….
Detective or witch.
What are some causes you care about?
I care deeply about sustainability, supporting vulnerable groups like children and disadvantaged individuals, animal welfare, preserving cultural roots and language, and making a positive impact wherever I can.
How do you keep connected to your Estonian roots while living in a different culture?
We speak and read in Estonian, making sure not to mix too many English words into our speech. The kids often ask for Estonian cakes and salads during our celebrations. We try to visit Estonia as often as we can and avoid speaking negatively about our homeland. We also stay connected with our local Estonian friends to keep the community spirit strong.
Do you have any skills or talents that most people don’t know about?
I used to be able to rap the Vinni Puhh song a long time ago, though I haven’t tried it in a while. I enjoy a good joke and appreciate stand-up comedy. When I'm really comfortable with people, I can crack jokes without any limits. I also write poems and have a knack for reading people's energy, even without interacting with them.
If you could share one thing about Estonian culture that you think everyone should know, what would it be?
I was raised with many unique traditions, and while there are many fascinating customs, I especially love the Midsummer ones. I also think mardipäev and kadripäev are much spookier than Halloween! Mardipäev deserves to be shared with the masses!
Cameron Trees - Secretary
What first sparked your interest in getting involved with the Estonian Cultural Association of Western Australia?
The members of the first year's committee. I appreciated what they were doing and thought it important.
Can you tell us a little about your professional background (areas of expertise, professional roles, education etc.)
I grew up around Gosnells, going to my local State primary and high school. Since then, I have done Law and Sociology degrees at Murdoch University and a Masters in Mining and Energy Law at UWA. In 1997 I started work as a lawyer, here in Western Australia. I have worked in various legal fields including about 12 years representing Aboriginal people in native title proceedings. These days I use my legal experience as a Negotiator for the State Government in native title matters.
What kind of impact do you hope to make through your involvement with the Estonian Cultural Association of Western Australia?
Using my experience with rules and legislation to support the formal side of running the Association—so that our creative, social, and energetic members can focus on organizing activities. Contributing as part of the team that brings the EstWest vision to life and helps our community grow.
In another life, I'm pretty sure I was….
A hermit. As much as I love being around other people, I also love my time alone. For example, a perfect holiday is walking the Bibbulmen Track alone. Some evenings can result in sitting in a hut or around a fire talking to people and there can be whole days and nights alone with just whatever I am reading and listening to.
What are some causes you care about?
The main things that get me thinking and acting are social justice issues relating to Aboriginal people's rights and the experience of refugees. What I perceived of my grandparents' experiences, and what I could learn about the loss they suffered having to leave their country, has striking similarities to what I have observed about Aboriginal people here in Australia.
How do you keep connected to your Estonian roots while living in a different culture?
Maybe it's a bit different perspective as the grandchild of people who left Estonia in the 1940s? I do lots of different things. At this present time it has been watching Leiutajateküla Lotte. I have whatever SBS is streaming on repeat while in the kitchen which most recently has been Apteeker Melchior.
Do you have any skills or talents that most people don’t know about?
From what I've heard it's an Estonian trait. I am good at everything, except the stuff that I try and eventually concede I can't do.
If you could share one thing about Estonian culture that you think everyone should know, what would it be?
I can't split these because they go together: rosolje and celebrating Christmas on Christmas Eve.
Gerly Pärs - Treasurer
What first sparked your interest in getting involved with the Estonian Cultural Association of Western Australia?
It's a great cause led by passionate people, allowing our small community to achieve big things and keep the Estonian heritage, along with new traditions, alive.
Can you tell us a little about your professional background (areas of expertise, professional roles, education etc.)
I am a CPA qualified Accountant with over 20 years of experience in various roles across Finance, Operations and Technology. I first started as an Accountant but then moved into analytical space where I found my passion in Data Analytics. I am currently working as a BI Data & Insights Manager, I am using data to tell stories and to help make business decisions.
What kind of impact do you hope to make through your involvement with the Estonian Cultural Association of Western Australia?
Leaning into my professional experience, I'm hoping to help with planning, budgeting, strategizing, project management etc. All the boring but essential stuff to keep the wheels turning.
How do you keep connected to your Estonian roots while living in a different culture?
Couldn't do it without the technology and local Estonian friends.
Do you have any skills or talents that most people don’t know about?
I'm really good at first round of bowling but then totally lose it afterwards 😃
If you could share one thing about Estonian culture that you think everyone should know, what would it be?
Estonian Song and Dance Festivals - amazingly uplifting experience.
Anu Van Hattem - Committee member
What first sparked your interest in getting involved with the Estonian Cultural Association of Western Australia?
Lifelong interest in all things Estonian
Can you tell us a little about your professional background (areas of expertise, professional roles, education etc.)
UWA degree in Architecture and worked in architectural firms. UWA Arts degree with Honours in History. Honorary Consul since 2008. Experience on various boards continuously since 1994.
If you could share one thing about Estonian culture that you think everyone should know, what would it be?
An understanding of Estonian history and traditions.
Grete KASEMETS - Committee member
What first sparked your interest in getting involved with the Estonian Cultural Association of Western Australia?
I’ve always known there are many Estonians in Perth, but we rarely had events to come together, like Midsummer Day or Christmas. Many people still didn’t even know about these events, so I thought it would be great if we had a space where everyone could meet, connect, and spend time together.
Can you tell us a little about your professional background (areas of expertise, professional roles, education etc.)
In Estonia, I studied hotel management, but currently, I work as a photographer. On a daily basis, I shoot cars for advertisements, and on the side, I also do portraits, weddings, and other events. Recently, I completed my studies in Information Technology, which I get to apply and practice in my current workplace alongside my photography work.
What kind of impact do you hope to make through your involvement with the Estonian Cultural Association of Western Australia?
I hope to help build a stronger sense of community among Estonians in Perth by helping with events and bringing people together. I want to create a space where everyone feels connected, welcomed, and proud of our culture.
In another life, I'm pretty sure I was….
A dog.
What are some causes you care about?
I care about community, mental health, the environment, and keeping cultural traditions alive.
How do you keep connected to your Estonian roots while living in a different culture?
I stay connected to my Estonian roots by spending time with other Estonians here in Australia, keeping in touch with my family and friends in Estonia, and participating in our events. I also read Estonian books and cook traditional Estonian dishes to maintain that connection to my culture.
Do you have any skills or talents that most people don’t know about?
Belly dancing.
If you could share one thing about Estonian culture that you think everyone should know, what would it be?
Estonia is one of the first countries in the world to implement online voting, making it easier for people to participate in elections, even from abroad. I think Australia has a lot to learn from us in this area.
Alice Niinelaid - Committee member
What first sparked your interest in getting involved with the Estonian Cultural Association of Western Australia?
Seemed like a great opportunity to connect with like-minded people, celebrate our traditions and stay connected to our culture while living abroad.
What kind of impact do you hope to make through your involvement with the Estonian Cultural Association of Western Australia?
I hope to support the Estonian community growth by helping with events and social media presence.
What are some causes you care about?
Keeping our traditions alive, celebrating our culture and maintaining/creating a community to support that.
How do you keep connected to your Estonian roots while living in a different culture?
Maintaining regular communication with my family and friends back home, visiting them when I can, celebrating our traditions/holidays. Participating in the events here in Perth.
Do you have any skills or talents that most people don’t know about?
🤫
If you could share one thing about Estonian culture that you think everyone should know, what would it be?
Probably our connection to the nature, we value our forests, untouched nature, countryside, fresh air etc. We like spending time in nature, we respect our land and the food it provides us, whether is home grown or from our forests.
Kaido Maivel - Committee member
What first sparked your interest in getting involved with the Estonian Cultural Association of Western Australia?
Keeping alive our traditions what started at Anu’s.
Can you tell us a little about your professional background (areas of expertise, professional roles, education etc.)
Over here I’m working with Komatsu - big yellow machinery for mines and civil construction. Sending parts to production line from our warehouse.
What kind of impact do you hope to make through your involvement with the Estonian Cultural Association of Western Australia?
Positive impact.
In another life, I'm pretty sure I was….
Cowboy - based on 3 seasons of Yellowstone I’ve just binged (also 1883 and 1923)
What are some causes you care about?
Keeping traditions alive.
How do you keep connected to your Estonian roots while living in a different culture?
I have lot of Estonian friends here with who we always celebrate main traditions.
Do you have any skills or talents that most people don’t know about?
I can keep gift cards and chocolate and newer use them.
If you could share one thing about Estonian culture that you think everyone should know, what would it be?
Takes time for Estonians to warm up, but then we can’t stop.
Maris Õunsaar - Committee member
What first sparked your interest in getting involved with the Estonian Cultural Association of Western Australia?
My primary motivation was to meet my fellow compatriots and develop an understanding of our community here.
Can you tell us a little about your professional background (areas of expertise, professional roles, education etc.)
I have a background in environmental protection and landscape management, but I have also ventured into the areas of written translation and medicine.
What are some causes you care about?
I get fired up for quite many subjects, some examples include clean water security, food security, and child exploitation. The list is long.
In another life, I'm pretty sure I was….
In one of my past lives, I was an aerial acrobat in traveling circus.
How do you keep connected to your Estonian roots while living in a different culture?
WWW
If you could share one thing about Estonian culture that you think everyone should know, what would it be?
The dairy section in Estonian supermarket - it's crazy!
Orvi Rõõmus-Kaasik - Committee member
What first sparked your interest in getting involved with the Estonian Cultural Association of Western Australia?
Idea of Estonian culture being spread and helping out with it.
Can you tell us a little about your professional background (areas of expertise, professional roles, education etc.)
Special education (special education teacher, disability support), fitness (aerial fitness instructor), animal care (kennel staff).
What kind of impact do you hope to make through your involvement with the Estonian Cultural Association of Western Australia?
Not totally sure, but hope to bring Estonians together
In another life, I'm pretty sure I was….
A sasquatch.
What are some causes you care about?
Animal welfare
How do you keep connected to your Estonian roots while living in a different culture?
Communication with other Estonians and EstWest.
If you could share one thing about Estonian culture that you think everyone should know, what would it be?
Folk dance and singing.