Choose how you would like to join the Jamii Family & take action: Connect we us. And let's take it from there. GET INVOLVED GET INVOLVED Creativity grows when people feel connected. There are many ways to be part of what we do, from supporting free arts programs to participating in hands-on community projects. Explore the opportunities below and find the path that feels right for you. DONATE Your support keeps Jamii’s programs free so everyone can participate without financial barriers. Donations of any amount directly sustain our workshops, events, and community projects. If you can, consider paying it forward and helping us continue offering accessible, creative opportunities for all. DONATE NOW VOLUNTEER Become a Jamii volunteer and help create welcoming, arts-filled experiences for neighbours of all ages. Volunteers support workshops, events, and community moments that spark connection and belonging. If you believe in the power of the arts to bring people together, we’d love to meet you. APPLY COLLABORATE Jamii welcomes artists interested in meaningful collaboration. We work with dancers, musicians, photographers, filmmakers, writers to co-create engaging workshops, performances. If you’re excited about community-rooted arts, we’d love to connect and explore working together. GET IN TOUCH RUN Run with Jamii at the Toronto Waterfront Marathon and support free arts programs in our neighbourhood. Choose any distance, fundraise $300 or more, and we’ll reimburse your registration fee. Join a team, make memories, and help strengthen community through the arts. SHOW YOUR INTEREST CONTACT Have feedback, a suggestion, or something you’d like to share? Reach out to us anytime. We welcome questions, ideas, comments, and concerns that help us grow and continue building meaningful arts experiences with our community. GET IN TOUCH PARTNER Partner with Jamii to bring arts-based experiences to your workplace, school, organization, or community. Together, we co-design creative workshops and events shaped around shared goals, with partnership funds supporting Jamii’s free programming for all ages. Let’s build something meaningful and community-driven. GET IN TOUCH WORK Join Jamii’s team and help shape community arts experiences in The Esplanade and beyond. Our staff contribute to building connections, supporting creativity, and strengthening neighbourhood pride. Explore opportunities to work with a small, dedicated team committed to accessible arts programming and meaningful community engagement. SEE OPPORTUNITIES CREATE Take part in one of Jamii’s creative community projects and see your ideas come to life. From photo exhibitions to murals to short films, these hands-on projects place community members at the centre. Join in, create something meaningful, and make memories with your neighbours. SEE PROJECTS SUBSCRIBE Stay connected with Jamii through our monthly e-newsletters. Join thousands of neighbours who receive updates about free programs, workshops, events, and community stories. We send 1–2 emails a month, always relevant and community-focused. No spam. Unsubscribe anytime. SUBSCRIBE ARTIST HANDBOOK This password-protected section is for artists who are confirmed to work with Jamii. It includes essential forms, policies, and shared agreements to support smooth, respectful collaboration before workshops and events. If you’re an artist working with us, you’ll receive access details directly from the Jamii team. CHECK OUT

Artists Jamii works with shape what our programming is. We are grateful to be working with hundreds of talented artists. who we work with Artists LEAD ARTISTS ARTISTS EMERGING ARTISTS LeadArtists Lead Artists who curate monthly themed programs at The Jamii Hub In February 2024, Jamii embarked on a transformative journey towards fostering community bonds through shared leadership and agency of what’s happening at The Jamii Hub. For three weeks every month, daily at 7pm, Jamii gives the keys to lead artists tasked with curating diverse immersive activities at The Jamii Hub. As such, each month, one artist is entrusted with shaping the Jamii experience, intertwining their voice with our collective narrative. The selection of our lead artist prioritizes relationality, trust, and a commitment to nurturing genuine connections within our community. We seek talented artists who appreciate engaging communities through creativity and are eager to share their talents and networks. It's about fostering meaningful engagement and dialogue through art. Lead artists are empowered to conceive a thematic vision for their three-week tenure, supported wholeheartedly as curators of the Jamii Hub. This opportunity offers a platform for curatorial expression, collaboration, and deeper community engagement in the arts. Thanks to the support oof Canada Council for the Arts, Metcalf Foundation and Rama Gaming House, we rejoice in opening our space to these artists, witnessing their brilliance illuminate our community with fresh perspectives and practices. Meet our lead artists and their visions below. Heidi Chan "Small and Mighty" - May 2025 MORE INFO Jonelle Sills "Mirrors" - February 2025 MORE INFO Nova Bhattacharya "Storybeing" - September 2024 MORE INFO Waleed Abdulhamid "Motherland" - April 2024 MORE INFO Carolina Rojas "The Chakana" - April 2025 MORE INFO Razan Samara "Return" - November 2024 MORE INFO Nickeshia Garrick "Connectedness" - June 2024 MORE INFO Tamar Ilana "Migration" - March 2024 MORE INFO Sharon Zarita Adhiambo "Grounded" - March 2025 MORE INFO Patrick de Belen "Teka Lang (Just Wait)" - October 2024 MORE INFO Takako Segawa "Roots" - May 2024 MORE INFO Aline Morales "Forró" - February 2024 MORE INFO who are featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists At Jamii, we consider ourselves fortunate to collaborate with over a hundred artists each year—some joining us for the first time, while others have engaged in years of artistic dialogue within our community. These artists, whether leading workshops, gracing our events with performances, showcasing their works through photo exhibitions, or beautifying our community with murals, are pivotal in defining the essence of Jamii. They weave together the fabric of our shared experiences, crafting memories, narrating stories, and enriching our collective identity. Their contributions resonate deeply, shaping the very soul of what Jamii represents. Aline Morales Singer, Musician MORE INFO Ayelen Liberona Dancer, filmmaker MORE INFO Andrew Patterson Visual Artist MORE INFO Brescia Nember Reid Puppetry MORE INFO Anita Boey Sewing MORE INFO Daniel Hamin Cellist MORE INFO LOAD MORE artists with the support of RBC's Emerging Artist Program Emerging Artists In 2023, thanks to the support of RBC’s Emerging Artists program, Jamii launched its first Emerging Artists Initiative that invited 6 artists, from different arts forms, in the emergence of their artistic career for a one-year programme that supported their artistic growth. This one-year (about 88hrs/artist) programme was customized to each artist participating and offered: 1) Artistic practice support (through mentorship and access to a creative space); 2) Creative industry management and networking support; 3) Public exposure with exhibition, screening, performance and more. This initiative follows in the footsteps of Laini, a 2022 RBC funded initiative that supports young women in creative leadership programme. This is also an initiative the community has directly requested Jamii to pursue as part of a strategic planning initiative in the Summer of 2022. The six emerging artists who benefited from this exceptional programme are Sabrine S Hakam (photographer), Yasmine Omar (photographer), Karen Lam (visual artist and actress), Gillian Mapp (photographer), Darwin Peters (painter) and Morningstar Quill (photographer) - all 6 identifying as BIPOC. Based on the success of the programme, we foresee Jamii’s Emerging Artist Initiative growing in 2024 and beyond. AKRAM YACOUT Photography MORE INFO TINA ABDELBASIT Visual Arts & Murals MORE INFO JONELLE SILLS Music MORE INFO AMBERLEE KING Visual Arts MORE INFO VRUNDA UPADHYAY Dance MORE INFO KURRI QUILL Photography MORE INFO SHILPA SHAH Visual Arts MORE INFO LEAH KING Photography MORE INFO ANA HIGUERA Music & Visual Arts MORE INFO ANA DA SILVA Photography MORE INFO NOOSA ZEIN Dance MORE INFO KAREN LAM Acting, Visual Arts MORE INFO emergingartists

Winter 2022 Community Projects/ Photo Exhibits/ ILLUMINATED PERSPECTIVES ILLUMINATED PERSPECTIVES Winter 2022 Winter 2022 An exhibit featuring 4 photographers from Pikangikum First Nation, curated by 11 young women from The Esplanade community. Exhibited in the courtyard of Toronto Public Library St Lawrence Branch This exhibit features the work of 4 photographers from Pikangikum First Nation: Mandi Chan Peters, Maddy King, Morningstar Quill and Clayton Turtle. It was curated by 11 young women from The Esplanade community under the leadership of Elle Alconcel. “Illuminated Perspectives” portrays Pikangikum First Nation and its spectacular beauty. The photos capture the essence of northern wildlife and the people who live there." Unveiled on October 2021 On display October 2021 to January 2022 CREDITS Produced and presented by: Jamii @jamiiesplanade In partnership with Ontario Culture Days and the Toronto Public Library St Lawrence Branch Featured photographers: Clayton Turtle Maddy King Mandi Chan-Peters Morningstar Quill Young curators: Aela Kuria, Anhar Salem, Asmaa Salem, Faith Ssempiira, Francesca Ssempiira, Huda Mourad, Lydia Embaye, RuthMarie Williams, Sophia Leopold-Muresan, Tenzin Paldon, Zhenmei Wong-Ward Curation process facilitated by: Elle Alconcel, assisted by Isorine Marc Project Management: Isorine Marc & Jasmin Linton Project Coordination (Pikangikum First Nation): Vanessa Hazel Project Assistant: Afnan Yakot Graphic Designer: Iris Unlu Supported by: RBC Foundation, Rama Gaming House, and Government of Ontario. Curation Process: Our group of young women curated this exhibit and crafted its title and artistic statement. They were initially presented with 40 photos, about 10 by each of the four photographers. Through a series of 5 workshops, under the artistic leadership of Elle Alconcel, they worked together to select 18 photos only. Through the exchange of ideas, perspectives and opinions, they explore the “why” and "how" to present this exhibit to their community and to you. Relationship between Jamii and Pikangikum First Nation: In 2018, Jamii visited Pikangikum First Nation for the first time, as part of an intra-provincial and and inter-community initiative supported by the Canada Council for the Arts. Under the lead of our local ambassador, we were thrilled to connect with wonderful individuals in the community and able to share stories. Find out about Pikangikum First Nation's location on a map HERE. During our second trip in 2019, we agreed to produce a community-arts project in between our two communities, as well as Wawa and Wolfe ISland, also located in Ontario. The project, named "Wind Stories" took shape in 2019 and 2020. find out more about this project HERE. In February 2020, the Jamii team traveled to Pikangikum First Nation for a third time and together, we brought "The Stories The Wind Carries" to life. We partnered with the Pikangikum Education Authority and Eenchokay Birchstick School to invite people to create a portrait of fellow community members. In total, we created 18 portraits, involving 36 people in the project. This was a beautiful experience and project for all involved. We have since maintained our connection to the community, and while we are planning to travel back in 2022, we are over the moon to produce "Illuminated Perspectives" and present the work of four astounding photographers from Pikangikum First Nation. Artistic Statement by the 11 young women who curated this exhibit: “Illuminated Perspectives” portrays Pikangikum First Nation and its spectacular beauty. The photos capture the essence of northern wildlife and the people who live there. It tells a story and opens our eyes to a place in our country that many of us didn’t know existed. These photos are much more powerful than just a series of images. They are a statement of culture, heritage, pride, and community. Through the curatorial process, we had the chance to discuss each photo with one another and analyze each of them from our different perspectives. This project, and its resulting exhibit, was an opportunity both to embrace and to learn. To embrace the breathtaking beauty of this community, and to learn more about the lack of opportunities and government support for Pikangikum First Nation and similar communities. We encourage everyone viewing our exhibit to “illuminate their perspectives” on Indigenous issues and triumphs, and to continue educate themselves about this community, its people, their customs and their way of living. Featuring Ojibwe life & people within our community brings more diversity to an already diverse community. We hope that being reminded about Indigenous issues, outside of the new federal holiday that was established for truth and reconciliation, might help people truly comprehend these issues. Many people, when living in a big city like Toronto, forget that they are also a part of a community. We wish that, in some way, “Illuminated Perspective” might make people appreciate the gifts that we, living in Toronto, have. We are extremely grateful that we have had that chance to embrace and to learn through participating in this project. As one of many joint-projects Jamii has shared with Pikangikum First Nation, this photo exhibition is meant to continue connecting our communities together. Such initiatives as “Illuminated Perspectives” help build a stronger bond between our two communities and give us a sense of unity. The togetherness of our communities and friendships we have made through photography is a very precious thing. Supported by:

2020 < Back to Events Itinerant performances CREDITS: WITH THE SUPPORT OF:

2019/08 < Back to Events I am me. I am home. CREDITS: WITH THE SUPPORT OF:

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2023/04 < Back to Events Stolen Live Event - Opera, Classical Music, and Discussion Challenging the themes of “Art & Ownership” April 3, 2023 The Jamii Hub On April 3rd, a beautiful crowd joined us at The Jamii Hub for an evening of engaging music featuring Jonelle Sills, Dior Quartet and in-depth conversation on theme of Stolen led by community member Sarah Ahmad. This will be an opportunity to explore and challenge the idea of Art and what is deemed worthy of being Stolen. Through the generous support of the Metcalf Foundation's Performing Arts Internship Program Jonelle has been working with Jamii as a Connector since September. Her goal through this internship has been to grow as an administrator and producer and as a classically trained soprano she wishes to explore how opera experiences could become part of the social fabric of communities and a tool for engagement and community building. Jonelle is a Canadian Soprano and currently a part of Jamii team as a Connector. Jonelle was named one of York University’s top 30 alumni under 30 for 2022 and in 2020 was one of CBC Music’s classical “30 under 30” performers and is a 2019 Dora award winner for “Outstanding performance of an Ensemble” in Vivier’s Kopernikus with Against the Grain Theatre. Jonelle holds an Artist Diploma from the Glenn Gould School at The Royal Conservatory of Music and a Bachelor of Fine Arts from York University. Jonelle was recently a member of the Yulanda M. Faris Young Artist Program at Vancouver Opera for their 2021 and 2022 season. Joined together from Israel, Korea-Canada, Saint Lucia, and the USA, the Dior String Quartet was the 2023 Quartet-in-Residence at the Glenn Gould School, Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto. The conversation was moderated by Sarah N Ahmad. Sarah is a multidisciplinary urbanist currently based in Toronto. As a fierce advocate for inclusive, sustainable and equitable cities and public spaces, Sarah has worked in the government, private and non profit sector on diverse projects aims at improving city life. At heart, Sarah believes in the power of community programming, public art and public space in bridging gaps and fostering meaningful, tolerant and inclusive associations with place. Sarah holds an Msc in Building and Urban Design for Development from the University College of London, U.K. and a Bachelor of Arts in Growth and Structure of Cities from Bryn Mawr College, U.S.A. CREDITS: Host: Jonelle Sills Live Performance: Dior Quartet (Noa Sarid, Tobias Elser, Caleb Georges, Joanne Yesol Choi) Soprano Singer: Jonelle Sills Moderator: Sarah N. Ahmad Photos: Isorine Marc WITH THE SUPPORT OF:

2021/03 < Back to Events Red Rhythm & Blues CREDITS: WITH THE SUPPORT OF:

PASI is a large-scale community photo exhibition along The Esplanade in Toronto. Apply to take part in a public artwork celebrating global communities in 2026. COMMUNITY PROJECTS / PASI PASI Passing the world along The Esplanade PASI is a large-scale outdoor community photo exhibition taking place along The Esplanade promenade in Toronto from May to July 2026. Led by Jamii, the project brings together community members of all ages to reflect how people from around the world live side by side in one city during a globally significant summer of international football. The name PASI, meaning “a soccer pass” in Swahili, refers to a simple gesture shared across cultures. In this project, that gesture becomes visual. Participants are photographed as part of a continuous chain of portraits, each person symbolically passing a soccer ball from one image to the next. Installed between the Distillery District and St. Lawrence Market, the exhibition unfolds along The Esplanade as a public artwork rooted in neighbourhood life, movement, and everyday presence. PASI will feature a minimum of 48 community participants, representing countries taking part in the 2026 international football tournament. Rather than focusing on competition or spectacle, the project highlights the people who already make up Toronto’s global character. Families, newcomers, elders, youth, and first-generation Torontonians appear together in a shared visual sequence, reflecting how international histories and identities intersect in daily life. The final exhibition includes 48 large-scale outdoor portraits (3 ft x 4 ft) displayed throughout the promenade. From May to July 2026, the installation will be animated by live performances, daily stiltwalker appearances, and cultural moments that invite residents and visitors to slow down, look closely, and experience the city in a different way. PASI is open to community members of all ages with roots in one of the participating countries. No professional modelling or photography experience is required. The project is about presence, not performance, and participation is designed to be welcoming, accessible, and community-led. By taking part in PASI, participants contribute to a landmark public artwork that documents a unique moment in Toronto’s history and offers a people-centred reflection on what it means to share space, culture, and everyday life in a global city. STEP 1: You apply. APPLY NOW Fill out the PASI application form to tell us about yourself and your connection to one of the participating countries. Applications are open to community members of all ages, and no photography or modelling experience is required. Our team will review submissions and follow up by email. An informal selection process helps us create a diverse group of participants that reflects the many communities living in Toronto. STEP 2: You book your photoshoot. If selected, you’ll receive a confirmation email. You can go ahead and book your photoshoot through the booking calendar below. Choose a photoshoot date and time that works best for you. All photoshoots take place outdoors at David Crombie Park. Schedule your service Check out our availability and book the date and time that works for you STEP 3: You sign the release. SIGN NOW Participation requires signing the Photo Release and Waiver. You’ll receive the form after confirmation. Please review it carefully before signing to complete your participation. STEP 4: You show up Dress in colourful clothing that reflects your country of origin, arrive on time for your photoshoot, and be ready to take part in this shared community moment along The Esplanade. FUNDED BY

The Jamii Hub on The Esplanade is home to a new dance form guided by Toronto dance artists each month. Join our dance workshops and enjoy being around a community! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / TUESDAY DISCOVERING / BOOK CLUB / REUNITING WITH STRANGERS - OCTOBER 2024 DISCOVERING Tuesday 7 pm Book Club REUNITING WITH STRANGERS October 2024 October 8, 2024 Facilitator: Jennilee Austria-Bonifacio Join us on Tuesday October 8th at 7pm, for a fascinating conversation on the impacts of separation and reunification many families deal with, with a focus on Filipino communities. Author Jennilee Austria-Bonifacio will share her debut novel, Reuniting with Strangers , with you along with her experience as a community worker supporting with over 1200 Filipino youth. Using a mix of humour and heart, Jennilee will share her journey from the settlement sector to the publishing world, and lead a discussion geared towards community-minded readers and aspiring writers. Reuniting with Strangers connects closely with the theme of TEKA LANG because the book was created due to a need for self-care under the pressures of frontline work. Reuniting with Strangers , which was longlisted for Canada Reads 2024, named one of CBC's Best Books of 2023, and was a finalist for the Jim Wong-Chu Emerging Writers Award and the 2024 Toronto Book Awards. A fascinating conversation you don't want to miss! We will also share Filipino childhood snacks mentioned in the book. Readers are encouraged to read the whole novel before this session. If you are short on time, readers can focus on Chapters 1, 7, 8, and 9. Reuniting with Strangers is available in print and e-book at the Toronto Public Library , independent bookstores such as Queen Books , and more retailers . REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Jeeya Gandhi Jennilee Austria-Bonifacio After working in multiple school boards as a settlement worker, public speaker, and researcher, Jennilee Austria-Bonifacio founded Filipino Talks-- a program that builds bridges between educators and Filipino families. Her work with 1200+ Filipino youth inspired her debut novel, Reuniting with Strangers, which was longlisted for Canada Reads 2024, named one of CBC's Best Books of 2023, and was a finalist for the Jim Wong-Chu Emerging Writers Award and the 2024 Toronto Book Awards. Photo Credit: Unknown

The Jamii Hub on The Esplanade is home to a new dance form guided by Toronto dance artists each month. Join our dance workshops and enjoy being around a community! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / TUESDAY DISCOVERING / BOOK CLUB / SONGS OF VIOLETA PARRA - APRIL 2025 DISCOVERING Tuesday 7 pm Book Club SONGS OF VIOLETA PARRA April 2025 April 8, 2025 Facilitator: Paulina Muñoz Join us for an intercultural reading experience where we explore the life and songs of one of Chile's most influential singer-songwriters, Violeta Parra, through the lens of Andean wisdom. In this free, thought-provoking session, we will explore how Parra’s music reflects the Andean principle of Suma Sarnakaña, which embodies the idea that you do not walk alone; you walk with the community, in nature, with your culture, your ancestors, and the spirits. The guiding symbol for our session is the Chakana, a central figure in Andean cultures. This stepped cross represents the interconnectedness of upper world (Hanan Pacha), the earthly world (Kay Pacha), and the inner world (Uku Pacha). This workshop will give you insights into how Violeta Parra connects with these values and her commitment to social justice and the Andean worldview that celebrates interconnectedness. Led by Paulina Muñoz, a Visiting Researcher at CERLAC, York University, and creator of the "Mi Historia en Palabras" methodology, this workshop invites you to connect deeply with Parra’s lyrics, which will be provided in both English and Quechua. Paulina’s background in narrative therapy and her work with diverse communities, including Latin American senior women, Chilean exile survivors, and LGBTQ+ asylum seekers, ensures a safe, reflective, and empowering space for all participants. Before the workshop, you’ll receive the lyrics of one of her songs, translated into both English and Quechua, along with discussion questions to help guide our conversation. This session is perfect for anyone interested in culture, history, and the power of music to unite communities across generations. Join us to connect with others and explore the shared stories that shape us all. This workshop is free to attend, but spots are limited, so register today! This Book Club is part of Jamii's April cycle, guided by lead artist Carolina Rojas, and centred around the theme of the Chakana—an ancestral Andean symbol representing the connection between the spiritual, earthly, and inner realms. Through these workshops in dancing, painting, crafting, sewing,singing and creative writing, we’ll reflect on how these ancient teachings resonate with our modern lives, connecting us to nature, the cycles of life, and our community. “This is an invitation to reinterpret the meaning of the Chakana, connecting its ancient wisdom with our modern experiences.” – Carolina Rojas. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Afnan Yakot Paulina Muñoz Paulina Muñoz is a Visiting Researcher at CERLAC, York University, and the creator of the "Mi Historia en Palabras" methodology, a structured yet flexible approach to autobiographical creative writing. Rooted in Paulo Freire’s pedagogy of liberation and narrative therapy, her methodology helps individuals organize their memories, thoughts, and emotions into meaningful written narratives. Throughout 2024, Paulina has facilitated workshops in Toronto, working with diverse groups, including Latin American senior women, Chilean exile survivors, Latin American women who have experienced domestic violence, and LGBTQ+ asylum seekers. Her workshops provide a safe and empowering space for participants to reflect, heal, and reclaim their personal histories through writing. With a deep understanding of Andean culture, Paulina integrates Indigenous worldviews into her approach to writing and identity exploration. She is currently developing a creative writing workshop in English for anglophone participants, offering a unique one-session experience where individuals will explore the SELF through Andean philosophical principles. This workshop invites participants to reflect on their personal journeys using Andean concepts of balance, reciprocity, and interconnectedness as guiding themes. Photo Credit: Unknown

2019/10 < Back to Events I am me. I am heart CREDITS: WITH THE SUPPORT OF:

The Jamii Hub on The Esplanade is home to a new dance form guided by Toronto dance artists each month. Join our dance workshops and enjoy being around a community! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / TUESDAY DISCOVERING / BOOK CLUB / THINGS FALL APART - APRIL 2024 LEARNING Tuesday 7 pm Book Club THINGS FALL APART April 2024 April 16, 2024 Facilitator: Eshe Mercer-James Reserve your spot and let the captivating journey begin! Whether you're a seasoned book club enthusiast or a beginner, all are welcome to partake in Jamii's Book Club! In April, embark with us on a literary journey with 'Things Fall Apart' by Chinua Achebe (first published in 1958) – a novel depicting pre-colonial life in Igboland (modern-day southeastern Nigeria) and the subsequent arrival of European missionaries and colonial forces in the late 19th century. Uniquely and richly African, the novel reveals Achebe's keen awareness of the human qualities common to people of all times and places. Join us in reading this book, and participate in an enlightening conversation led by the passionate literature professor, Eshe Mercer-James. Jamii does not provide the book, you can find it at the Toronto Public Library or retailers. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Ghader Bsmar and Isorine Marc, Jeeya Gandhi Eshe Mercer-James Eshe Mercer-James has taught literature courses at both York and Trent Universities, and also works with the Canadian Language Museum. Her PhD dissertation, Framing Standard and Dialect in Black Women’s Novels (2021), was nominated for the Mary McEwan Memorial Award, a prize for feminist scholarship. Photo Credit: Unknown

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Paulina Perez Arts Facilitator website My name is Paulina Perez, Im a watercolor artist/teacher based in Toronto. I teach the love of watercolours at several retirement homes across the GTA and have been doing so for about 7 months now. My goal is to share the beauty of this medium and hopefully ignite the same passion in others. << BACK TO ARTISTS

2021/08, 09 < Back to Events La Bulle Aug 31 to Sept 5, 2021 Berkeley Castle Courtyard700 spectators A visually stunning and poetic solo performance from the minds of David Danzon and Carolin Lindner. La Bulle featured a one-of-a-kind bubble tent and its sole inhabitant: Pierrot, the iconic dreamer. Confined together, they live in transparent symbiosis. In this theatrical setting, there is nowhere to hide - an absurd situation, fully exploited with humour by a lucid and lunar Pierrot. La Bulle is nominated for the 2022 Dora Awards by Toronto Alliance of Performing Arts in the categories of "Outstanding Achievement in Design" (Scenic Design: David Danzon and Carolin Lindner) and "Outstanding Production" (CORPUS presented by Théâtre Français de Toronto and Jamii). CREDITS: CREDITS FOR LA BULLE: Conceived, directed and designed by David Danzon & Carolin Lindner (CORPUS) Co-presented with Théâtre français de Toronto and Jamii Performed by David Danzon Costume Design by Françoise Autran ABOUT CORPUS: Co-founded in 1997 by Sylvie Bouchard and artistic director David Danzon, CORPUS is known for its precise and surrealist humour that combines movement with theatrical imagery. CORPUS’ unique and engaging performances are presented in both traditional and unusual locations for large and diverse audiences. A huge thank you to the production team: For CORPUS: Janin Goldman, Paulina Speltz, Jeff Souzy, Deanna Gene. For Théâtre français de Toronto: Karine Ricard, Ghislain Caron, Manuel Verreydt, Sandra-Emily Veilleux, Hadrien Volle. For Jamii: Isorine Marc, Jasmin Linton, DeeAnn Sagar, Cynthia Ruso, Tereka Smith, Ammar Salem, Iris Unlu. For Berkeley Castle: Linda Leistner and Melody Arnold. WITH THE SUPPORT OF:

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Waleed Adbdulhamid Musician website Waleed Abdulhamid is a Canadian Multi-instrumentalist; Composer; Vocalist; Music and Film Producer, known for his striking vocals, innovative bass technique, and his speed and precision on percussion. He has been an active member of the Toronto music scene since his arrival, in 1991 from Sudan, where he began to perform as early as six years old. He is the recipient of the Canadian New Pioneer Award; African Tama Award; Reel World Film Festival Award and Canadian Film Board of Excellence Award. In addition, he has not only received other international awards, but was also twice honoured with a DORA Award. << BACK TO ARTISTS

2021, 2022 < Back to Events LuminUs CREDITS: WITH THE SUPPORT OF:

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Maulid Owino Dancer website Maulid Owino, a contemporary dancer and choreographer based in Nairobi, Kenya, with 5 years of professional experience, refined his skills at the Dance into Space. Founder of Dance Unites, an initiative focusing on dance production through films. His notable performances include appearances at the Dance Life Festival in Nairobi, choreographed by Neema Bahagmunda, and Haba na Festival in Tanzania, choreographed by Jared Onyango, known as Orodha Oracle. Engaging in an exchange program, Mauild collaborated with the Flat Dance Company in South Africa, and his dance films have received global recognition, participating in festivals as Ubumuntu in Rwanda, Dance on Camera in New York by the Dance Film Association, and Jomba Festival in South Africa. << BACK TO ARTISTS

Toronto Waterfront Marathon Cheering Site GET INVOLVED / MARATHON / 2019 MARATHON CHEER 2019 October 20 Toronto Waterfront Marathon Cheering Site On Sunday, October 20th 2019 Jamii organized both the Family Fun Run and St Lawrence Cheering Site at the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon and won the big prize for the Best Cheering Site! Thank you to our partners in organizing this event: Friends of Berczy Park, Children Princess Garden. Thank you to our sponsors CONCERT, Tim Hortons, Aroma and GWL Realty Advisors! We are also grateful to our local cinema, Imagine Cinemas for the donation of movie passes for all the winners of the Family Fun Run! Thank you to the planning committee: Isorine Marc, Dennis Glasgow, Shaun Pearen, Mary McDonald, Dan O'Leary, Zarita Adhiambo, Josefina Bilotta, Maureen Browne, Raecheal Goddard, Karen Lam and all the wonderful people who showed up on the day of. Without you cheering up the marathon runners, we wouldn't have won! Last but not least, thank you to all the amazing artists who brought the cheering site to life! Linda Epp - Face Painting Andrew Patterson - Live Portrait Drawings Aline Morales - Brazilian drums Walter MacLean - African drums Kaitlin Torrance, Patrica Estay and Miranda Meijer - Dancing Supported by:

The Jamii Hub on The Esplanade is home to a new dance form guided by Toronto dance artists each month. Join our dance workshops and enjoy being around a community! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / TUESDAY DISCOVERING / BOOK CLUB / HAFEZ POETRY - MAY 2024 LEARNING Tuesday 7 pm Book Club HAFEZ POETRY May 2024 May 21, 2024 Facilitator: Eshe Mercer-James The 14th-century Persian lyric mystic poet Hafez has resonated with audiences from his time and place into our own. Reading him through the translations of late 19th century British writer, political officer, and archaeologist Gertrude Bell, offers a stepping stone on the journey from his roots to ours. With the poems "Arise, Oh Cup-Bearer" and "Singer, Sweet Singer," we will explore translation, transculturation, and the joy of living. After you register, The Jamii Team will send you digital copies of the two poems that we will be focusing on during this session. If you need printed copies, stop by The Jamii Hub at 264 The Esplanade, between 9am and 5pm on weekdays to pick up a printed version. If you would like to explore more of Hafez's work, Eshe recommends "The Gift" collection, which you can find at independent bookstore Queen Books . Mention that you are a Jamii Book Club participant to receive a 10% discount. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Afnan Yakot, Maria Trivino, Sarah N. Ahmad, Jeeya Gandhi Eshe Mercer-James Eshe Mercer-James has taught literature courses at both York and Trent Universities, and also works with the Canadian Language Museum. Her PhD dissertation, Framing Standard and Dialect in Black Women’s Novels (2021), was nominated for the Mary McEwan Memorial Award, a prize for feminist scholarship. Photo by Isorine Marc

2023/07 < Back to Events To my Past Present and Future Live Event - Dance, Music, Workshops July 27 to 29, 2023 The Jamii Hub & David Crombie Park Jamii invited audiences to experience "To My Past, Present and Future" - a multidisciplinary solo exploration by Nickeshia Garrick. This series of evenings in the park with live music and dance were an invitation to explore our sense of identity through our journeys. Leading up to the performances, Nickeshia led a series of workshops on breathwork, clay pottery, and creative writing at The Jamii Hub. This was the perfect way to wholistically enrich audiences' experience before they enjoyed Nickeshia’s dance performance in the park. Nickeshia Garrick is a settler on the stolen land of Tkaronto and has performed on this land for over 25 years. They are unapologetically a Black, Queer Artist, who believes in the healing power of breath through raw emotion and movement. Nickeshia received their dance training at the NYIDE (New York Institution of Dance and Education), National Ballet School of Canada (Tkaronto), Toronto Dance Theatre (Tkaronto), and Simon Fraser University (Vancouver). Nickeshia is a Dora Mavor Moore, winning and multi-nominated artist who holds a BFA in Dance from Simon Fraser University and is a Movement Teacher at the Toronto Film School. CREDITS: Choreographer & Performer: Nickeshia Garrick Workshop Lead: Nickeshia Garrick Music performers: Kazdoura Band, Zaynab Wilson WITH THE SUPPORT OF:

d6c0229c-7b8a-4ea8-948f-4634639d38fb < Back Wawa and Michipicoten Firts Nation Wawa & Michipicoten First Nation SEPT 2020 3rd VISIT In the Fall of 2019, Jamii visited Wawa and invited locals to create visual portraits of fellow neighbours, friends or family member. Altogether, 21 beautiful portraits were created. Following the creation of this series of portraits, Jamii came back to Wawa in September 2020 to exhibit this collection of portraits, along with portraits created in Toronto, Wolfe Island and Pikangikum. Along with this unique exhibit, Jamii invited local artists to bring a selection of these portraits to life through music, dance, storytelling, and drumming; A whirlwind of stories and a unique way to share and celebrate each other stories. ARTISTS: Damian Binda, Isabella Imperatori, Joanne Poisson, Sheila Rodger, Brian Lachine, Mirinda Patterson and Samatha Stewart. Host: Nadine Kwissiwa. Tech: Marty Rodger. Ambassador: Darren Marshall. In partnership with the Municipality of Wawa and Wawa Colab and supported by Ontario Arts Council and Canada Council for the Arts. Photos: Kylie Marie (Inspired Moments Photography) Wawa & MIchipicoten First Nation NOV 9-18 2019 2nd VISIT 2019 JOURNAL: It has been quite an amazing week in Wawa & Michipicoten First Nation. We have created 22 portraits of people from the community made by fellow community members, and in the creative process, more than 50 people were involved. On November 16th, about 60 people joined us at the LakeView Hotel to celebrate this success. (see photos below by Kristen Sabourin). It is humbling to witness people coming through and opening up to each other, especially when they haven't previously met. To say the least, this has been an amazing and moving journey.We are grateful for the support of many partners who greatly contributed in bringing this project to life: Canada Council for the Arts Ontario Arts Council Toronto Arts Council Superior Children Centre Wawa EarlyON Child & Family Centre Wawa Goose Seniors Club Michipicoten High School Michipicoten First Nation CSC Nouvelon A special thank you to all those who participated in this project, included but not limited to: Marilyn Perkovich-Farand, Pauline Dawson, Robin Marshall Davidson, Thelma Joyce Smitham, Carol, Matt Larrett, Chief Patricia Tangie, Lucille Vachon-Case, River Lise Berry, Brian Outinen, Doris Jacques, Jacob Larrett, Melina DeSaulnier, Elma Spooner, Hamza Khan, Kayley East, and Isabella Impératori. Last but not least, thank you to amazing artists Kara Spencer and Dan Bergeron; our community ambassador Darren Marshall, Jamii's President Georgia Reynolds, and the amazing amazing Robin Marshall Davidson. Isorine Marc and the Jamii team are grateful. Thank you Wawa, Ontario. Michipicoten First Nation & Wawa Sept 21st to 25th 2018 1st VISIT 2018 JOURNAL (Oct 1st 2018): Our visit to Michipicoten First Nation and Wawa was yet another soul-enriching journey. On our way to the two communities, we visited the Twilight Resort, Chippewa Falls, Old Women Bay. We then discovered Mr Vallee Park and Anderson Lake, Hawk Junction, Michipicoten High School, Lions Park, Superior Childcare Centre, the local North of 17 and Embassy restaurants (both meeting places in the community), the Lady Dunn Health Centre, Michipicoten Memorial Community Centre, Michipicoten First Nation Community Centre, Sandy Beach and much more. We were blessed to meet Brian Outinen who shared with us his knowledge of pictographs and local legends. Isabeau Allard from the township of Wawa shared with us some insight on the township efforts to bring people together through the new strategic plans. Nancy Auclair told us about Indigenous youth and the importance of finding one’s sense of identity. Nathalie Scully gave us a tour of her camp and told us about Hawk Junction history that was once thriving with the passenger trains, which no longer runs thus reinforcing isolation. Carolle Beaulieu-Pitre showed us her community project of organic farming at the Flying Geese Farm. We also met as a larger group composed of Paula Valois, Amanda Gautier, Brian Lachine, George Brousseau, Jessie Labonte, Maury O’Neil, and Beverly Boyd to discuss how each local organizations are contributing to the overall health of both communities and are linked together, what makes us proud of both Michipicoten First Nation and Wawa, and what are some of the untold & silenced stories of these two communities. Special thank you to Robin Marshall for welcoming us to her community. Previous Next

The Jamii Hub turns into a creative writing sanctuary on Sundays! Led by Patrick De Belen, join us for a series of creative writing and storytelling workshops inspired by this month's theme of "Migration". INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CREATIVE WRITING / MIGRATION - MARCH 2024 VERSIFYING Sunday 7 pm Discover your unique poetic voice! March 2024 MIGRATION March 3 - 10 - 17, 2024 Facilitator: Patrick de Belen For 3 sessions in March, award-winning poet, filmmaker, and storyteller Patrick de Belen will be facilitating a series of creative writing and storytelling workshops inspired by this month's theme of "Migration". Participants will explore different poetic styles through a collection of writing activities and prompts, and experiment with rhythm and rhyme, and the art of spoken word poetry. If you are interested in uncovering your own story, learning to craft a spoken word piece, space to poetically reflect and journal, and potentially developing some public speaking and performance techniques along the way, this workshop series is for you! REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Shaimaa Yakout Patrick de Belen Patrick de Belen is an award-winning poet, filmmaker, educator and storyteller of many other mediums. His poetry, films and other projects often explore themes of mental illness, the Filipino-Canadian experience, social justice, youth empowerment and advocacy, grief and healing. He is most known for his poetic collaborations with the Toronto Raptors, the NFL, CBC, his 2 spoken word EPs and multiple cine-poems and independent films he wrote and directed himself. When he isn’t onstage, or writing, he is an educator and youth mentor, partnering with many institutions like addiction centres, mental health focused organizations, libraries, schools, jails and more - advocating for storytelling opportunities and platforms in as many spaces as possible. Instagram Photo Credit: Unknown

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Kimalee Phillip Facilitator website Kimalee moves through this world as a doula, a secret poet and holder of space and emergence. She is an experienced social justice and organizational learning consultant; a facilitator, writer, educator and researcher with over 10 years of experience. Her work is deeply grounded in, and informed by Black queer feminist thought and practice and healing justice frameworks. After working in the international feminist movement world for over 5 years at the Association for Women's Rights in Development, she shifted her energies to consulting and organizing and now currently sits on the Board of Trustees with the Groundswell Community Justice Trust Fund and is a facilitator with Bloom Consulting and the Toronto Jam team. She organizes with the Caribbean Solidarity Network and works as a National Human Rights Representative with the Canadian Union of Public Employees (CUPE). << BACK TO ARTISTS

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Aline Morales Singer, Musician website Aline Morales is a passionate promoter of the traditional rhythms of northeastern Brazil, continuing to perform with her percussion troupe, Baque de Bamba, at countless festivals and events. Now drawing upon a wider range of influences, Morales finds herself in a stage of musical exploration. Gone is the heavy wall of percussion, replaced instead by lush, eclectic arrangements, seamlessly blending traditional and modern instrument. << BACK TO ARTISTS

The Jamii Hub on The Esplanade is home to a new dance form guided by Toronto dance artists each month. Join our dance workshops and enjoy being around a community! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / TUESDAY DISCOVERING / BOOK CLUB / CONNECTEDNESS - JUNE 2024 LEARNING Tuesday 7 pm Book Club CONNECTEDNESS June 2024 June 18, 2024 Facilitator: Eshe Mercer-James For June Book Club, Eshe Merce-James invites you to look at variations on folklore as examples of cultural connections across borders and oceans. As a group, we are reading 4 to 5 stories about different Central American folkloric tricksters, with a focus on characters who are building or defending a home, connecting home and land together. Eshe is keeping a surprise reading for the group, exploring a Breb Rabbit story. Join us on Tuesday June 18th for a beautiful evening with Eshe! REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Jeeya Gandhi Eshe Mercer-James Eshe Mercer-James has taught literature courses at both York and Trent Universities, and also works with the Canadian Language Museum. Her PhD dissertation, Framing Standard and Dialect in Black Women’s Novels (2021), was nominated for the Mary McEwan Memorial Award, a prize for feminist scholarship. She also has a longstanding interest in Brazilian culture, and spent a month in the northeast part of the country to experience the Festa de São João festival (also known as Festa Junina). She is excited to experience some of that energy in Toronto. Photo by Isorine Marc

The Jamii Hub turns into a creative writing sanctuary once a month on Tuesdays! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CREATIVE WRITING / THE TRADITION OF ORAL POETRY - NOVEMBER 2024 DISCOVERING Tuesday 7 pm Creative Writing November 2024 TRADITION OF ORAL POETRY November 19, 2024 Facilitator: Leen Amarin On Tuesday, November 19 at 7pm at the Jamii Hub, artist Leen Amarin will guide you through a unique creative writing workshop. In reclaiming our inherent right of return, and as a gesture towards a return to Palestinian ancestral practices, this poetry/spoken word workshop aims to take us back to the tradition of oral poetry. Drawing on our personal and ancestral histories, we will engage with Palestinian voices and literature in order to find and share our own. Inspired by the process that led to one of Leen’s most popular poems, Mother Language, we will each leave this workshop with a piece written as a personal interpretation of found poetry. We are looking forward to seeing you at this inspiring workshop, discover Leen's work and delve into your own poetry practice. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Shaimaa Yakout, Hadeal Karrar Leen Amarin Leen Amarin is a Jordanian, Lebanese, and Palestinian creative, writer, researcher, and human rights advocate. Now based in Tkaranto, she attempts to reconcile her identity as a migrant-settler through her creative practice and advocacy. Her work is steeped in themes of homeland, diasporic tensions, and identity reclaimed. Photo Credit: Unknown

Summer 2023 Community Projects/ Photo Exhibits/ CALYX CALYX Summer 2023 Summer 2023 As part of Jamii's 5th Annual Celebrating Cultures Event Exhibited at The Esplanade & Berkeley St David Crombie Park Much like the protective green layer around a flower bud, this exhibit, titled Calyx, is a testament to the power of flourishing creativity and blossoming ideas. Designed and created by 15 Esplanadians, under the artistic leadership of Sabrine S. Hakam. Unveiled on Tuesday, June 27, 2023 On display from June to November 2023 In Partnership with As part of CREDITS Created, curated and designed by community members: Maryam Alireza, Dani Gakumba, Sabrine S. Hakam, Aéla Kuria, Zélia Kuria, Sophia Leopold-Muresan, keiron, Isorine Marc, Nadifa Daud Mohamed, Faith Ssempiira, Francesca Ssempiira, Ruthmarie Williams, Shaima Yacout, Afnan Yakot, Eva Zolfaghari Artistic Concept: Sabrine S. Hakam Creation Process Facilitation: Sabrine S. Hakam Photography: Sabrine S. Hakam, Dani Gakumba Project Management: Nadifa Daud Mohamed, Maryam Alireza Project Direction: Isorine Marc Graphic Designer: Iris Unlu Collective Artistic Statement: Much like the protective green layer around a flower bud, our exhibit, titled Calyx, is a testament to the power of flourishing creativity and blossoming ideas. Together, we envisioned, designed, and created an exhibit that nurtures budding talent and passion. The entire process was an opportunity to explore different aspects and expressions of our own personal identities. Through this exhibition, mostly composed of self-portraits, we explore how, both individually and as a group, we relate to society and its pressures. In juxtaposing strong images, we demonstrate how one can decide to see beauty in the world or run away from it. In sharing the intimate stories and learnings that inspired our portraits, we found many bridges to connect us. Creating this exhibit was an act of love for ourselves and our communities, and, in some cases, a lesson on choosing your perspective on life and offering words of wisdom. Artistic Statement by Sabrine S Hakam: In 2022, I started work on ‘Power in Portraits’, a creative project that uses portraiture to explore different facets of BIPOC, postcolonial, and Third Culture identities. As an art form, portraits demand we consider not only how we see ourselves but also how we wish to represent ourselves to the world. Therefore, power exists in the freedom and ability to control our own representation. The ‘Power in Portraits’ workshops, in partnership with Jamii, provided a space for participants to explore portraits as a tool for self-expression, representation and empowerment. These workshops were a unique opportunity for me, as an artist and educator, to both learn from and nurture the creativity of others and invite them to channel their imagination through my artistic method. The results are striking, shocking, beautiful and, most importantly, they represent the power of collaboration, dialogue, mutual appreciation and respect. Calyx is built around teamwork and the free exchange of ideas and while each portrait represents a unique point of view, the exhibit itself represents our work as a group, a team, a creative collective - a Jamii. Click HERE to more information about photographer Sabrine S. Hakam Photo exhibition and unveiling event (Celebrating Cultures) supported by:

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Edz Gyamfi Dancer website Edmund “Edz” Gyamfi (born, 1986), better known by his stage name Edz Gyamfi, is a Ghanaian-Canadian dance choreographer from Ottawa, Ontario Canada. Born in Kumasi, Ghana Edz was exposed to dance at an early age. He was exposed to various genres of music from all around the world. In addition to cultural influences, Edz was also heavily inspired by his two older brothers who used to be dancers in the 80s. Edz main dance styles consist of Hip Hop, Dancehall & Afro dance. He has over 15 years of teaching experience and has taught hundreds of clients ranging from toddlers to seniors. This has given him the opportunity to travel all over Canada and abroad. Edz has taken his dance training to new heights by traveling and seeking knowledge from world renowned Choreographers such as Rhapsody James “Motivating Excellence” (Intensive Program) in Montreal, Luam Keflezgy’s “Rock The industry” in NYC and Galen Hooks “Galen Hooks Method” in LA. Edz has also worked alongside world renowned Choreographer & Author LaurieAnn Gibson. Edz has recently expanded his repertoire by taking numerous acting, commercial voiceover and animation classes. He believes that the industry is filled with opportunities that could present itself at any time, so why not train and learn new skills along your journey. << BACK TO ARTISTS

The Jamii Hub turns into a creative writing sanctuary on Sundays! Led by Jäjé, join us to explore the unique yet universal nature behind your individual story! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CREATIVE WRITING / FOUND - JUNE 2024 VERSIFYING Sunday 7 pm Discover your unique poetic voice! June 2024 FOUND June 2 - 9 - 16, 2024 Facilitator: Jäjé Through a three part workshop series entitled 'Found' , multidisciplinary artist Jäjé explores the unique yet universal nature behind one's individual story. Geared towards fortifying both individual and communal storytelling practice, participants are guided through a mix of written, verbal and physical exercises to prompt a better understanding of one's own voice as well as the voices behind the many stories we often hear across intersections such as culture. Participants can expect to learn; the core principles of storytelling, the art of finding the story behind one's voice, tools to enhance their writing & performance skills and a greater appreciation for stories across race, age, gender and ethnicity. Join us at the Jamii Hub for an exciting series of workshops on June 2nd , 9th , and 16th from 7pm to 8:30pm. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Ghader Bsmar, Jae Yang Jäjé Jäjé is a multidisciplinary artist born in Trinidad and raised in the city of Toronto. As a professionally trained dancer, actor, singer and poet Jäjé has not only gone through Honey Jam, as well as having graced the stages of the Mod Club, El Mocambo, Phoenix Concert Theatre, Manifesto15 at the City View Drive-in and most recently TIFF's Slaight Music Stage. Currently you can stream Jäjé's latest releases on all major streaming sites, as well as purchase her debut poetry eBook 'Heart, heavy' through her Instagram bio! Instagram Photo Credit: Rachael Reid

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Anita Boey Sewing website Anita Boey was born in Newfoundland, Canada, and lived in Singapore, Malaysia, Australia, USA, Finland, Sweden; and is back in Canada as a Professor of Human Resource Management. She is also a self-taught Fashion Designer and began her partnership with Jamii as a Sewing Workshop Facilitator since March 2023. She finds joy in sharing her passion for garment design, construction and machine sewing. She designs her garments to tell stories about cultural diversity, as a true reflection of her own multi-cultural upbringing. All are welcome to join Anita on Sundays for sewing! << BACK TO ARTISTS

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Jonelle Sills Opera Singer website Canadian Soprano Jonelle Sills (pr. Ya-Nell) is one of the most exciting young sopranos of her generation. A JUNO Award nominee with The Canadian Art Song Project for Known to Dreamers: Black Voices in Canadian Art Song for Classical Album of the Year (Small Ensemble), she has also been named one of CBCs Music’s 30 Hot Classical Musicians Under 30. Jonelle has made acclaimed debuts with leading companies, including the Canadian Opera Company as Mimi in La bohème, a performance that was lauded as being a “beautifully sensitive Mimi with careful control and colour” (The Globe and Mail). Other notable roles include Rosalinde (Die Fledermaus) and Donna Anna (Don Giovanni) with Edmonton Opera, Micaëla (Carmen) and Helena (A Midsummer Night’s Dream) with Vancouver Opera, and Anna Glawari (The Merry Widow) with Toronto Operetta Theatre. She has also appeared in recital with the Viano Quartet at the Prince Edward County Chamber Festival. Her company debut with Toronto’s Against The Grain Theatre in Vivier’s Kopernikus earned her a 2019 Dora Award as a member of the ensemble. Jonelle has been an integral collaborator with Jamii since 2020, beginning with a performance alongside Jeremiah Sparks in Wind Stories. Over the years, her creative contributions have spanned various projects, including performing in Wayo (2021), starring in the short film series The Wedding, producing Stolen (2023) and Butterfly Ballet (2023), performing in An Evening with David Crombie (2024), and leading Jamii's February 2025 cycle with the theme of Mirrors. << BACK TO ARTISTS

Winter 2024 Community Projects/ Photo Exhibits/ THE PACT THE PACT Winter 2024 Winter 2024 Exhibited at The Jamii Hub (264 The Esplanade) Since 2022, a group of about 15 girls and young women from The Esplanade has traveled to Farming Futures Coop near Madoc, ON, where they are led by both Jamii and the Becoming Praxis teams for five days of artistic adventures on the land. During this immersive week, the participants, guided by a professional artist, harvest food from the garden, swim in the river, walk through the forest, share stories around the fire, and engage in arts projects. In 2024, the group embraced the challenge of creating a photo exhibition exploring the meaning of friendship. Participants chose the theme, took the photographs, curated the collection, and crafted their own artistic statement, which includes the exhibit’s powerful title:  The Pact.  This project reflects what friendship means to them. Unveiled on Thursday, November 28, 2024 On display from November 2024 to February 2025 CREDITS Producer: Jamii and Becoming Praxis Lead Artist: Nilaya Sabnis Artistic Advisors: Ayelen Liberona, Isorine Marc Photographers: Chloé, Aéla, Santana, Jacqueline, Trinity, Kandi, Ruby, Mila, Garesah, Zélia, Maryam, Lisa, Sanaa and Ariya. Youth support: Karen Lam Coordination & Hearth Care: Lindy Zucker, Angell Owens ARTISTIC STATEMENT BY LEAD ARTIST NILAYA SABNIS: In our week together, I learned a lot about friendship watching the way these incredible girls looked out for each other, tried new things in a new land, played together, and shared an experience that none of us will soon forget. They showed me that friendship is indeed a pact, a decision, a promise, sometimes unspoken, but always shown. Friendship is making sure that everyone gets a cookie before anyone takes seconds. It’s walking the youngest across the field to the outhouse so she doesn’t feel alone and scared. Friendship is noticing when someone is struggling and offering your help. It’s braiding bracelets in the dome, and each other’s hair by the river. Friendship is encouraging someone when they’re trying something new. It’s holding hands on slippery rocks and making sure no one is left behind. Friendship can be quiet, or it can be rowdy. It lasts through laughter and through tears. Friendship is the comfort of knowing you are not going through anything alone. And this is exactly the story these girls have so beautifully told through this series of images, each one unique and true to the vision of artist who made it. It was a privilege to show them basic photography techniques and watch them take it on as their own. I am so proud of them for learning a new language in such a short time and using it to tell this story. But above all, I'm so grateful to them for reminding us all what friendship truly is.  ARTISTIC STATEMENT BY YOUNG PHOTOGRAPHERS: Friendship is like juice boxes. I give you one now because you’re thirsty, and when I’m thirsty, you’ll have one for me too. We share, we care, and we’re here for each other. There are some basics about friendship: trusting each other and creating a space to share our true feelings. You tell each other things you wouldn’t tell anyone else. Respect, care, and support are key. Friends can laugh with each other in a genuine way, tease each other for fun, and know how everyone is feeling. We make sure everyone is included and having a good time. Friendship is also about finding compromises that work for everyone when we don’t agree. Friendship can be complicated. Sometimes, things don’t go right the first time, and you mess things up. But friendship can be wonderful if you work hard at it. One of the most important things about friendship is believing in one another—when we encourage each other, we can do great things that make us feel stronger. Friendship is precious: it’s joyful, warm, and priceless. You’re never alone, with friends who check in on you every day to make sure you’re okay. Older friends show me respect and care, which makes me feel great. We care for each other, and we make sure it’s safe for everyone. Friendship is something you can’t take away. You’re there for your friends, not just in joyful times but also when they’re down, sad, or angry, or feeling anything else. You support them and encourage them to look on the bright side. Friendship brings happiness all around. In the end, friendship is life. Friendship is love. Friendship is happiness for all. And really, making new friends is easy—kindness is the way to go. Be kind to the people you meet because they could become friends who share some of the most wonderful experiences that might transform your life.

The Jamii Hub turns into a creative writing sanctuary once a month on Tuesdays! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CREATIVE WRITING / EXPLORING OUR EMOTIONS - SEPTEMBER 2024 DISCOVERING Tuesday 7 pm Creative Writing September 2024 EXPLORING OUR EMOTIONS September 24, 2024 Facilitator: Asha P Exploring our emotions through creative writing Asha P sees stories in everything, embodies stories in all her art practices whether acting or writing. Join a 2-hour session where participants will be led through the journeys our emotions and thoughts take through the art of writing. Participants will get to see their stories come alive on paper, enjoy the senses as they form into words creating an immersive experience. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Shaimaa Yakout Asha P is a writer, dancer, theatre artist with a successful career in Arts management. She is the bestselling author of two poetry books that gained international fame. Her acting career spans many theatre productions on Canadian stage as well as short films. Asha has experience educating youth through the arts and she volunteers her time to raise awareness about mental and emotional health. Photo Credit: Unknown

2023/05 < Back to Events Svaha Live Event - Dance May 26. 27 , 28. 2023 David Crombie Park "Svāhā!", a celebration of dance as a revitalizing ritual that brings us closer together. Created by award-winning Nova Bhattacharya , Svāhā! was an offering of movement, music, colours and sensations. It embodied the transformative power of dance, expressing the uniqueness of the individual and the value of community. Bringing together dancers from a varying dance forms and cultural backgrounds, Svāhā! asked how can we be better together? “I am inspired by the eloquence of the human body and the intelligence of the senses. The potential for dance to stimulate people emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually drives my commitment to creating dances that exalt the human spirit and express ideas that words cannot.” ~ Nova Bhattacharya This dance performance included a warm-up with the professional dancers, and a series of dance workshops (cypher) led by Mel Hart so that everyone could join the dance with us. As a perk, our little ones were treated to facepainting with local artist Linda Epp. Founded by Nova Bhattacharya in 2008, dance company Nova Dance brings new ideas to dance, re-inventing the possibilities of the art. The company breaks down conventions and encourages new talent with the best and most exciting in performance the world over. Nova Dance works with artists from many art forms and a multitude of backgrounds to create a community that celebrates the life-force of dance in our lives. Nova Dance exists to bring contemporary Canadian dance towards a new future. Embracing diversity as creative inspiration for a body of work that has garnered awards, national and international recognition, and most importantly made connections with audiences and communities. Find more on their website: https://www.novadance.ca/company-biography CREDITS: Director: Nova Bhattacharya Dancers: Mellisa Hart, Candace Kumar, Neena Jayarajan, Rajvi Dedhia, Nova Bhattacharya Facepainting: Linda Epp Sewing: Diséiye Thompson Organized by the Jamii Team Produced by Jamii WITH THE SUPPORT OF:

The Jamii Hub on The Esplanade is home to a new dance form guided by Toronto dance artists each month. Join our dance workshops and enjoy being around a community! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / TUESDAY DISCOVERING / BOOK CLUB / WE WILL REMEMBER THIS - SEPTEMBER 2024 DISCOVERING Tuesday 7 pm Book Club WE WILL REMEMBER THIS September 2024 September 10, 2024 Facilitator: Brannavy Jeyasundaram "We Will Remember This: Nova Bhattacharya’s Svāhā!" holds a moment in the life of a dance company and its artistic work during the global pandemic. With shuttered theatres and empty rehearsal halls, dance artists searched for new ways of working when all performances stopped and close contact with other bodies wasn’t always possible. Join the author and curator Brannavy Jeyasundaram for selected readings and behind-the-scenes stories of the book writing process for a glimpse into the creation of this inspiring work. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Hadeal Karrar, Jeeya Gandhi Brannavy Jeyasundaram is a writer and the co-executive director of the Toronto Ward Museum. She is also the managing editor of the literary journal exploring global politics, Adi Magazine. Her main interest lies in exploring movement traditions and memory formation through understanding histories of displacement. Her writing on cultural memory can be found in The Local, Briarpatch, Jacobin, and the Tamil Guardian, among other places. Photo Credit: Unknown

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Zaynab Wilson Singer & Musician website Zaynab Wilson is a wayfaring multi-instrumentalist who transmutes stories of growth and progress into songs. Born in Montréal and raised in a Trinidadian steelpan-playing family band, she sculpts an original soundscape combining intrinsic ancestral Afro-Caribbean rhythms and her soulful vocalization of the inward and outward journeys. She continues the tradition of blending music and family- community. << BACK TO ARTISTS

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Yasmine Omar Photographer website Yasmine Omar, based in Toronto, is a photographer and director who tells meaningful stories through her art. Her goal is to inspire by creating emotional connections in the portraits she captures. Yasmine is drawn to genuine moments, aiming to freeze them in time for everlasting impact. Yasmine was one of the 4 artists traveling to Kenya in 2023 with Jamii. << BACK TO ARTISTS

Toronto Waterfront Marathon Cheering Site GET INVOLVED / MARATHON / 2018 MARATHON CHEER 2018 October 18 Toronto Waterfront Marathon Cheering Site St Lawrence Neighbourhood Cheering Site was voted #1 of the Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon. Music: Aline Morales & Walter Maclean Dancers: Jolyane Langlois, Kate Nankervis, Ann Trépanier, Ashima Suri, Lucyanna. Thank you to: Scotiabank Toronto Waterfront Marathon, Canada Running Series, Canada Running Series Foundation, The Old Spaghetti Factory, Friends of Berczy Park, Jamii Esplanade. Thank you to all the amazing volunteers! Raecheal Goddard, Karen Lam, Zoie Browne, Linda Maria Leistner, Paulina Speltz, Georgia Reynolds, MAry McDonals, Dennis Glasgow, Shaun Pearen, Steve Lowden, Dan O'Leary, Maureen, Jocelyn, Yasmine, Scarlett, Clarke, Isorine Marc, Bob Kemp, Rhonda Ross, Kerryn Graham, Raya (Carolin Lindner), Zoë (Judith Campbell), Kristi Heath, Nadifa Mohamed, Mr Hazellini, and so many more! And thank you to our Champions! Bob Reeves, Julien Lui, Afsheen Chowdhury, @Hafeworki Hagy and Alexandra! Supported by:

2019/07 < Back to Events Drag Queen Story Time CREDITS: WITH THE SUPPORT OF:

The Jamii Hub turns into a painting sanctuary once every month on Thursdays! In June, participants will use acrylic paint and sand on canvas boards with the lead of Julian Periquet. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / VISUAL ARTS / ACRYLIC PAINT AND SAND - JUNE 2024 CREATING Thursday 7 pm ACRYLIC PAINT AND SAND June 2024 June 6, 2024 from 7 PM to 9 PM Facilitator: Julian Periquet Unleash your creative spirit at Jamii's Painting Night! Whether you're an experienced artist or a beginner, our painting nights provide a space for self-expression and connection. At this session, under the guidance of artist Julian Periquet, you will be invited to play with acrylic paint and sand, creating an artwork that explores "Connectedness through Culture". After the session, take home your masterpiece and cherish the memories of a delightful evening at Jamii. No experience required. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Isorine Marc, Ghader Bsmar Photo Credit: Unknown Julian Periquet Marc Julian Periquet is a proud Canadian Filipino born and raised in the downtown core neighbourhood, The Esplanade. He established an addiction to the art world at an early age. More so from the encouragement and creative techniques his father Ernesto instilled in him. Many of his weapons of mass creation vary from pencils to pens, markers to charcoal, acrylics to pastels, spray cans and more. Hands on with all purpose materials, Julian doesn't shy away from making an everyday object come to life artistically. New ventures such as live painting and set building have given Julian an opportunity to work with various creatives. Working well under pressure and inviting new challenges will always be an ever growing trait on his journey. Instagram UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Wed, Mar 04 March Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Mar 04, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Paint on silk using vibrant dyes and traditional techniques. A four-part visual arts workshop led by Janice Garel. Free with registration. Wed, Mar 11 March Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Mar 11, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Paint on silk using vibrant dyes and traditional techniques. A four-part visual arts workshop led by Janice Garel. Free with registration. Wed, Mar 18 March Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Mar 18, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Paint on silk using vibrant dyes and traditional techniques. A four-part visual arts workshop led by Janice Garel. Free with registration. Wed, Mar 25 March Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Mar 25, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Paint on silk using vibrant dyes and traditional techniques. A four-part visual arts workshop led by Janice Garel. Free with registration.

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Sharon Liboi Singer website Liboi is a Nairobi-based Singer/ Songwriter who uses her creative ability to express the human experience, question humanity and improve the well-being of the deprived in society. Liboi is also a filmmaker, community journalist and project coordinator. Liboi is a strong proponent for social change, culture, and mental awareness. She does African Contemporary music which is a blend of traditional music with elements of popular African genres. Through her music, Liboi has been able to embrace diverse themes from hope, mental health, life, love, patriotism, tribalism, peace, immigration and social ills. She has performed at many events including Unplug Fest: A wellness and revitalization festival, Usawa Festival, and Fete De La Musique at Alliance Francaise Nairobi among others. She has also been in Artist Residencies like Look Me In The I: Co-creation, installation and performance show in Nairobi, Kenya and Into The Mirror: Co-creation, installation and performance show in Rome, Italy. Liboi has also made musical tours in Tanzania, Norway and Spain. She has been featured in ‘From The Margins Album’- an album by Dorphan, a Kenyan poet and ‘Art Continues Album’- an album by Pawa254. << BACK TO ARTISTS

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Nicola Pantin Dancer website Nicola Pantin is an independent dance artist, choreographer and dance instructor based in Toronto, Canada. << BACK TO ARTISTS

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Nova Bhattacharya Dancer website Nova Bhattacharya is an award-winning, barrier-breaking, artist and cultural leader based in Tkaronto. Her creations are filled with lush, vivid images that invite the viewer on a journey of imagination. Her creative inspiration is found in her hybridity of born and raised in Canada-Bengali-ness, and immersion in global movement traditions that are carried in bodies of the diaspora. She’s always been a rebel breaking rules, reinterpreting traditions, and reinventing rituals. In 2008 she founded Nova Dance a space for creation, conversations, and collaborations. << BACK TO ARTISTS

bcf751db-072c-43aa-990c-8edb1de4df10 < Back Toronto “Wind Stories” is a project that connects the communities of Toronto, Wawa, Michipicoten First Nation, Pikangikum First Nation, and Wolfe Island. Community members are invited to co-create a series of portraits of fellow neighbours through creative writing, photography and visual arts. The first part of this project took place in Toronto in February 2020, with more than 50 people participating in this co-creation under the guidance of a beautiful artistic and production team: Isorine Marc, Andrew Patterson, Dan Bergeron, Zarita Adhiambo, Angel Narick. On February 8th, participants showed their portraits to their "chosen person" during a get-together at Performing Arts Lodge. A beautiful evening, warm and welcoming. The 22 portraits were then displayed at the Four Seasons Performing Arts Centre on February 13th and 15th 2020, welcoming hundreds of youth and their parents to discover this unique collection. Following the creation of a series of portraits of local people, made by fellow neighbours, a wonderful team of artists came together to bring eight of these portraits to life, through music, dance, and vocals.A unique way to share and celebrate each other stories.ARTISTS: Ashima Suri, Jonelle Sills, Jeremiah Sparks, Michael Caldwell, Paulina O’Kieffe-Anthony, Sue Croweagle, Heidi Chan, Raha Javanfar, with hosts Ryan G. Hinds & Indrit Kasapi. Photos & Videos: Laura Dittmann Previous Next

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Andrew Patterson Visual Artist website Andrew Patterson is a Toronto-based artist and designer working to challenge myths and ideas regarding identity. In particular, his work focuses on the subject of mixed-race identity and the spaces where it overlaps; culturally, ethnically, and socially. What similarities and differences do we emphasize, and why? And what bridges might be discovered and formed by those who occupy those spaces in between? These are the questions he hopes to explore and answer, often through portraiture, abstraction, and decorative/geometric symbolism. We need new fiction. << BACK TO ARTISTS

Toronto Waterfront Marathon Cheering Site GET INVOLVED / MARATHON / 2023 MARATHON CHEER 2023 October 15 Toronto Waterfront Marathon Cheering Site Another year, another jam-packed day of fun! 2023 St Lawrence Neighbourhood's Cheering Site at Toronto Waterfront Marathon hosted face painting by Linda Epp, the vibrant beats of Brazilian music courtesy of Tallbeat - a fantastic Stilt Drumming Troupe that's all about Afro-Brazilian drumming and Maracatu from dazzling heights, lively dancers and creative crafts to explore!

We set up Jamii as an Arts Organization with an intention of both community building & nurturing women in leadership and now Jamii  is an amazing "tool"to accomplish our magic. But really, it is the people (staff, board, artists, audience, participants, donors) and organizations (partners, funders, sponsors) who are doing it all. Without them,  Jamii wouldn't be. ABOUT/ OUR HOW How we do it: Jamii is an Arts Organization that is transforming the lives of hundreds of people through memorable artistic experiences. It is the people at Jamii (staff, board, artists, audience, participants, donors) and our partners, funders, and sponsors who do it all. Without them, Jamii wouldn't be. The story we tell Jamii - About Since 2011, Jamii (Swahili for "community") has enlivened The Esplanade – one of downtown Toronto’s most unique & diverse communities. Through the production of over 130+ memorable arts-based experiences that recognize and celebrate all people while nurturing female leadership, Jamii strengthens community and lifts spirits. READ: WHAT DOES JAMII DO?. Behind the scene The Board of Directors Jamii is blessed to be supported, advised and guided by an amazing team of wonderful individuals who are deeply committed to Jamii’s mission and long-term sustainability. To each members of our Board of Directors, our heart is full of gratitude for your leadership. Thank you, thank you, thank you. READ: WHO IS ON THE JAMII BOARD. Tremendous local support The Community If we do all what we do, it is thanks to an amazingly supportive community. Local groups, residential buildings, and the St. Lawrence Neighbourhood Association are all very supportive of our initiatives and never shy stepping in to help us out making magic in our streets. READ: WHO IS THE ESPLANADE COMMUNITY? Those who define Jamii Audience-Participants What would be the point of producing projects, events, workshops, if no one was to come and enjoy them? How we do the magic depends on who shows up at our events and workshops and who joins in to co-create with us. Audience and participants are the recipients of our work and without them, Jamii would be meaningless. Isorine Marc Founder & Alchemist Isorine founded Jamii in 2011 and has since led the organization with passion, commitment, and endless creativity. As the Alchemist (Executive and Programming Director), she continues shaping Jamii's day-to-day operations and its long-term vision, with the support of the team, the Board, and all partners and contributors. READ: THE GENESIS STORY OF JAMII Financial support Funders & Partners Even though all our programming is free for participants and audiences, it takes a budget to bring programming to life. We are extremely grateful for the support of our public and private funders, as well as our sponsors, local businesses and local partners. READ: CURRENT FUNDERS AND PARTNERS. Financial Support The Donors Jamii is a charitable organization (80387 3207 RR0001) and thus receives donations and provides receipts for tax purposes. We are grateful for the individuals who are committed to make a difference and allow us to offer quality engagement for all. READ: YOU TOO, SUPPORT JAMII: MAKE A DONATION. Community Arts Award Award-winning! In 2020, Jamii was the Recipient of the Community Arts Award by the Toronto Arts Foundation. A milestone for Jamii. Since, Jamii has received other awards and is grateful of the recognition received for the work accomplished. READ: ACCEPTANCE SPEECH. The people - the doers The Jamii Team Behind every event, exhibit, workshops, there is a team of skilled, dedicated, talented visionaries and producers, who believe that Jamii’s impact on the Esplanade community and beyond is worth all the energy, time and efforts we are pouring into our organization. We are grateful for how much people have contributed to making what Jamii is today. READ: REMARKABLE WORK - REMARKABLE PEOPLE. One fantastic partner Canadian Stage In 2020, Jamii and Canadian Stage made a powerful commitment to one another and to the local community. They joined forces with the intention of growing capacity and leveraging resources, which is meant to increase the quality of the collective arts experience, forThe Esplanade community. READ: AN IMPACTOFUL PARTNERSHIP The Talents The Artists While we come up with ideas of projects, workshops and events we could produce, really, it is the artists we are collaborating with who are creating Jamii's identity and artistic success. It is their music, their dance, their photos their films, their skills, their talents and their leadership that give us make what Jamii is and does. READ: JAMII"S ARTISTS

Spring 2019 Community Projects/ Photo Exhibits/ I AM ME I AM ME Spring 2019 Spring 2019 Exhibited at The Esplanade & Jarvis - David Crombie Park In 2018, a group of 10 talented young women created a photography exhibition that was featured as an Open Exhibition in CONTACT, Photography Festival, and was displayed in May 2019 in David Crombie Park. The exhibit, titled “I am me (Girl, I got you)”, invites viewers to push beyond the confines of society’s image of women. A project under the leadership of Brianna Roye. Photos taken and curated by the 10 participating young women. CREDITS Emerging photographers: Alina Khurram, Amni Hantash. Gennavive Marshall, Helena Maragos, Inara Ibrahim, Mysha Khurram, Nadia Ibrahim, Nadifa Daud Mohamed, Pauline Williams, Zoë Campbell Lead artist: Brianna Roye Curator: Isorine Marc Curation Process: Our group of young women curated this exhibit and crafted its title and artistic statement. They were initially presented with 40 photos, about 10 by each of the four photographers. Through a series of 5 workshops, under the artistic leadership of Elle Alconcel, they worked together to select 18 photos only. Through the exchange of ideas, perspectives and opinions, they explore the “why” and "how" to present this exhibit to their community and to you.

The Jamii Hub turns into a creative writing sanctuary once a month on Tuesdays! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CREATIVE WRITING / EXPLORING SELF THROUGH ANDEAN COSMOVISION DISCOVERING Tuesday 7 pm Creative Writing April 2025 EXPLORING SELF THROUGH ANDEAN COSMOVISION April 15, 2025 Facilitator: Paulina Muñoz Join us for an inspiring creative writing session where we’ll explore the concept of SELF through the lens of Andean cosmovision. This workshop will introduce you to the guiding principles of Andean philosophy, offering a unique opportunity to reflect on how these ancient concepts are relevant in today’s world. The guiding symbol for our workshop is the Chakana, a central figure in Andean cultures. This stepped cross represents the balance between three interconnected realms: the upper world (Hanan Pacha), the earthly world (Kay Pacha), and the inner world (Uku Pacha). These principles will serve as the foundation for our creative exploration, helping us to examine how ancient Andean values of balance, reciprocity, and interconnectedness can offer insight into your personal journey and help shape your understanding of who you are. Led by Paulina Muñoz, a Visiting Researcher at CERLAC, York University, and the creator of the "Mi Historia en Palabras" methodology, this workshop invites you to engage in creative writing through the lens of Andean philosophy. Paulina’s expertise in narrative therapy and her work with diverse communities, including Latin American senior women and LGBTQ+ asylum seekers, ensures a safe and reflective space for all participants. In this session, we will encourage you to explore your own stories, memories, and reflections using these principles of balance, reciprocity, and interconnectedness. This session is perfect for anyone interested in self-reflection, storytelling, and the power of ancient wisdom to guide modern creative expression. Come with an open mind, ready to connect with yourself and others through the art of writing. Whether you’re new to creative writing or have experience, this workshop offers a space for everyone to reflect, create, and express. For those who want to take their experience further and perform, we invite you to join Saturday Mingling on April 26, a lively evening of artistic sharing where community members and artists come together to celebrate the creative journey. This workshop is free to attend, but spaces are limited, so be sure to register today! This Creative Writing workshop is part of Jamii's April cycle, guided by lead artist Carolina Rojas, and centred around the theme of the Chakana—an ancestral Andean symbol representing the connection between the spiritual, earthly, and inner realms. Through these workshops in dancing, painting, crafting, sewing,singing and creative writing, we’ll reflect on how these ancient teachings resonate with our modern lives, connecting us to nature, the cycles of life, and our community. “This is an invitation to reinterpret the meaning of the Chakana, connecting its ancient wisdom with our modern experiences.” – Carolina Rojas. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Afnan Yakot Paulina Muñoz Paulina Muñoz is a Visiting Researcher at CERLAC, York University, and the creator of the "Mi Historia en Palabras" methodology, a structured yet flexible approach to autobiographical creative writing. Rooted in Paulo Freire’s pedagogy of liberation and narrative therapy, her methodology helps individuals organize their memories, thoughts, and emotions into meaningful written narratives. Throughout 2024, Paulina has facilitated workshops in Toronto, working with diverse groups, including Latin American senior women, Chilean exile survivors, Latin American women who have experienced domestic violence, and LGBTQ+ asylum seekers. Her workshops provide a safe and empowering space for participants to reflect, heal, and reclaim their personal histories through writing. With a deep understanding of Andean culture, Paulina integrates Indigenous worldviews into her approach to writing and identity exploration. She is currently developing a creative writing workshop in English for anglophone participants, offering a unique one-session experience where individuals will explore the SELF through Andean philosophical principles. This workshop invites participants to reflect on their personal journeys using Andean concepts of balance, reciprocity, and interconnectedness as guiding themes. Photo Credit: Unknown