Estonian refugee couple promotes homeland culture in Atlanta

Aadu Allpere and Kristi Vuht-Allpere, an Estonian refugee couple, promote the culture of their homeland to the residents of Atlanta, Georgia.

Allpere and Vuht-Allpere belong to the generation of refugees displaced by World War II and the occupation of Estonia. After Allpere spent three decades working for the Coca-Cola Company and later became the honorary consul for Estonia in Atlanta in 2011, the couple began a personal mission to introduce Americans to Estonian traditions.

They believe that building familiarity with Estonia creates a sense of connection and safety for the local community. The couple recently hosted a reception and an exhibition on Estonian musical culture at the Atlanta Symphony Hall to coincide with a visit by Estonian conductor Kristiina Poska. While they advocate for more Estonian performers to visit the city, Vuht-Allpere noted that Atlanta is sometimes overlooked by touring groups that favor larger cities with bigger diaspora communities.

Allpere also views Georgia as a potential destination for Estonian businesses due to its ports and airport, though he has not yet successfully moved any companies there. The couple enjoys the quality of life in Atlanta but notes the challenges of American life, such as heavy reliance on cars and the lack of local sources for traditional Estonian food.

They also navigate the differences in funding for cultural institutions, as the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra relies on private donations rather than the taxpayer support common in Estonia. The couple's volunteer committee works to raise more than $3.5 million annually to keep the orchestra financially stable.