James Martin Representing Buddhism
James Martin has been member of Calgary Buddhist Temple (Jodo Shinshu) since 1997. Currently he is serving Temple as assistant minister and teacher. He received Tokudo (ordination) from Kyoto, Japan in October, 2003 and named assistant minister at Calgary. He completed 2 years of studies at Institute of Buddhist Studies in Berkeley, California in May, 2006.
Wayne Boersma Representing Christianity
Wayne Boersma is passionate about his faith in Jesus Christ. Once Wayne accepted Jesus Christ as his personal Lord and Saviour at the age of 20, life became interesting. He discovered purpose. Wayne felt drawn to study God’s Word, eventually earning a Bachelor of Theology degree from Canadian Christian College. He also found fulfillment through serving in his local church where a lifestyle of volunteering evolved into full-time ministry in 1990. He now serves as Senior Pastor of Victory Church of Brooks.
Ajit Singh Atwal Representing Sikhism
Ajit Singh Atwal migrated in Canada over 35 years ago. After completing his Masters in Geography from Punjab University, Chandigarh India, he earned his second degree in Planning from University of Waterloo, Ont. He had served as Executive Director of former Southeast Alberta Regional Planning Commission in Medicine Hat. At the time of retirement in 2005, he was serving as General Manager of Planning Building & Engineering Services Department in the City of Medicine Hat. Mr. Ajit has been actively involved in community services and activities. Currently he is enjoying retirement life in the City of Medicine Hat.
Muhammad Afzal Mirza Representing Islam
Muhammad Afzal Mirza is learned speaker with great knowledge. He has a keen interest in youth welfare, and has hosted biweekly live phone-in radio programs explaining contemporary Islamic issues in Toronto. After dedicating his life, he graduated from Ahmadiyya Muslim University situated in Rabwah, Pakistan. After completing his studies in 1976 he then worked as a Missionary in various cities in Pakistan. From 1981-98 Muhammad worked as a Islamic Missionary in California, Illinois and Michigan, USA. He is married with three children. He is presently Religious Minister, Ahmadiyya Muslim Community in Delta with responsibilities covering British Columbia.
Clayton Johnson Deputy Mayor, City of Brooks
Clayton Johnson has been living in Brooks for the past eleven years. He has been serving community as City of Brooks Councillor for more than five years. He has been working in ATCO Gas as District Supervisor for the last thirty years. He has been married for 28 years and has three children and two grandchildren. He will be chairing the event in representation of the Mayor Don Weisbeck.
