ALROSA extended its assistance and support for a modern cultural centre built by the Olenyok village. The new recreational facility, named Ilkit, will help in “preserving traditions and cultural heritage of local indigenous peoples, Evenki”, the Company said. ALROSA contributed Rubles 280 million for the project.

The opening ceremony, at which ALROSA was represented by Deputy CEO Alexey Dyachkovsky and Pavel Marinychev, a Director of ALROSA’s affiliate Almazy Anabara, was also graced by the Head of Yakutia, Aysen Nikolaev; representatives of the Yakutia government, Il Tumen national assembly and other authorities of Yakutia.

“ALROSA recognises the uniqueness of Olenyok Evenki National District,” Alexey Dyachkovsky, Deputy CEO of ALROSA. “The new recreational centre is one of the company’s efforts to create conditions for the preservation of the intangible cultural heritage of the Evenki, one of the indigenous peoples of the Russian North. Talented and bright people live and work in the region. They preserve their ancestors’ experience and knowledge and share it with new generations. They make a significant contribution to the revival and development of indigenous culture, and extensively work on the promotion and protection of traditions and lives of indigenous peoples of the North. It is noteworthy that the new cultural facility opens on the 85th anniversary year of the Olenyok region.”

The well-equipped cultural and recreational centre is housed in a two-story building of 1,390 square meters, and has a modern assembly hall for 200 guests; a cinema hall; a ritual hall in the form of urasa (ancient summerhouse of Yakut people); classes for dancing, singing and drama; and a lunchroom with Internet access. The centre will also house a State Civil Register Office and a library.

In the courtyard is a bronze sculpture by famous sculptor Afanasy Romanov. The statue, called "Son of Uren Khosun", depicts an Evenki boy as a descendant of the legendary warrior.

“The main purpose of the centre is to preserve the traditional culture, language, arts and crafts of the indigenous peoples of the North,” said Alexander Ivanov, the head of the Olenyok region. “Now we will be able to rehearse performances. It will also help our talented folk artisans to develop their skills. We are very glad to have this new centre. Besides, there is a big cinema hall in there.”