Meet EFC Director Mati Pajo

Mati Pajo was elected to the EFC Board at the Annual Meeting of Members in May 2026. He brings over 25 years of experience as a corporate/commercial and securities lawyer. His practice focuses on advising entrepreneurs, owner-operators, family businesses and professionals at every stage of the business life cycle, from initial startup to sale or succession. He also advises portfolio managers and securities dealers on regulatory compliance.

Throughout his life, Mati has also been actively involved in the Toronto Estonian community. He has spent many years as a cub and scout leader in the Põhjakotka and Kalev scout groups, was a director of the Estonian (Toronto) Credit Union Ltd. (now Northern Birch Credit Union), and performed with a Toronto Estonian folk pop band. He is also a member of Korp! Ugala.

"Our grandparents and parents arrived in Canada as refugees after World War II, with no money and few possessions. But they worked together with unwavering determination to build a new life and a thriving Estonian community," Mati says. "Through their perseverance and vision, our lives have been immeasurably enriched. We have been blessed to grow up in a supportive community where we can preserve our beautiful Estonian language, culture and traditions."

Mati believes we owe it to our children and grandchildren to carry on our forebears' work in preserving a vibrant Estonian community in Canada. His own children participate actively in Estonian guides and scouts, Jõekääru summer camp, and have attended all levels of Toronto Estonian schools. 

"Our language and heritage are precious, and we must safeguard these treasures for our children and grandchildren. This requires hard work, energy and determination, as well as financial support," Mati explains. "For over half a century, EFC has funded Estonian schools, choirs, youth camps and many other institutions to keep the Estonian language and heritage thriving in Canada. I believe EFC will continue to play a crucial role in helping support the Estonian community in Canada for many years to come."  

We are pleased to welcome Mati to the EFC Board!