This mural was co-created by 16 local youths Community Projects/ MURALS/ BASKETBALL COURT MURAL BASKETBALL COURT MURAL David Crombie Park This mural was co-created by 16 local youths A group of sixteen youth from The Esplanade studied local and international murals, shared their values and ideas, consulted with the community, created a design, and spray-painted the basketball court wall to create the Crombie Park Basketball Court Mural. The mural design process started in April 2014 and included reaching out to the community and encouraging all neighbours to share their own design suggestions to feed the creative process. The mural was unveiled on July 19th with performances by The Fairest and Best, and Rated X Dance Crew. The mural has since gathered international recognition and has been featured in films, commercials, music videos and more! CREDITS: Lead Artist: Shalak Attack Assisting Artists: Julian Periquet & Bruno Smoky Curator: Isorine Marc Coordination and Community Outreach: Zoie Browne Rights Owner: Jamii Esplanade Participating Youths: Afnan, Anthony, Delina, Edan, Farid, Hanna, Jennaiya, Karen, Molly, Mumina, Nada, Noel, Raecheal, Tyson, Yasmin and Yossef. Initiated and produced by Jamii Esplanade © Jamii Esplanade COMMERCIAL USE FORM

2015 Queens of The Esplanade 2015 This project first and foremost celebrates individuality and the power of imagination. Through dance, object theatre and storytelling our 18 Queens and Princesses along with 12 Maestros transformed a simple premise into a magical and whimsical theatrical venue. CREDITS Co-produced with CORPUSPresented at Culture Days and Toronto Nuit Blanche Inspired by CORPUS’ Camping RoyaleLead artist: Carolin LindnerChoreographer: Kaitlin TorranceCostume designer: Margot Mercier Esplanadian Princesses and Queens: Amanda Maragos, Aleina Maragos, Betsy Finnie, Cyesha Forde, Dulce Gomes, HibaKurdi, Helena Maragos, Hodan Ibrahim, Hodan MohammedAbdi, Georgia Reynolds, Genevive Marshall, Keisha Anthony, Linda Leistner, Lula Bunye, Marah Alassar, Melody Arnold, Ribqah Zafar, Yasmin Abouali and professional artists Ashima Suri, Ryan G Hinds, Takako Segawa Esplanadian Maestros: Clarke Graham, Dan O’Leary, Danielle Laurent-Chazel, Darren Marshall, Kai Muyoboke, Marcos Vilela, Markus Hunter-Vrooman, Maysam Ghani, Pauline Williams, Raecheal Goddard, Robert Graham, Scarlett Graham and professional artists David Danzon, Indrit Kasapi

The Jamii Hub turns into a crafting sanctuary twice a month on Thursdays! WINE GLASS PAINTING AND POLYMER CLAY CREATION - APRIL 2025 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / THURSDAY CREATING / CRAFTING NIGHTS / CREATING Thursday 7 pm Crafting Nights WINE GLASS PAINTING AND POLYMER CLAY CREATION April 2025 April 17 - 24, 2025 Facilitators: Ximena Montecino, Josefina Vera Toro ANDEAN SYMBOLS PAINTED ON A WINE GLASS Facilitator: X imena Montecino Thursday, April 17 at 7pm Join us on April 17 for a creative and fun evening of crafting, where you'll paint your own wine glass using special acrylic paints designed for glass surfaces. Led by visual and multidisciplinary artist Ximena Montecino, this 2-hour workshop invites you to take a creative journey into Andean culture as you explore symbols like the Mountain of Seven Colours, the Chakana, and snakes, weaving them into your own unique design. Ximena will guide you step-by-step through the process, beginning with a demonstration on canvas to help you better understand the shapes and colours before transferring them to your wine glass. While following the guided design, you’ll also have the freedom to express your personal creativity, adding your own artistic touch to your wine glass. Whether you're new to painting or an experienced artist, this workshop is designed for everyone to enjoy. By the end of the evening, you’ll leave with a beautifully painted wine glass that reflects your connection to Andean culture and your own creative spirit. No experience necessary, just bring your imagination! For those who want to take the ir experience further and display their creations, 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 Crafting 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. This workshop will take place on April 17, at 7 p.m. CREATING A CHAKANA-INSPIRED PENDANT WITH POLYMER CLAY Facilitator: Josefina Vera Toro Thursday, April 24 at 7pm Join us on April 24 for an evening of creativity and cultural exploration in this hands-on workshop, where you’ll craft your own Chakana-inspired pendant using polymer clay. The Chakana, which means 'bridge' or 'to cross over' in Quechua, is a powerful symbol of the universe and all life within it. Though its meaning varies across different Andean communities, the Chakana is universally recognized as a symbol of connection and balance. Led by Chilean designer Josefina Vera Toro (aka Pepa), this 2-hour workshop invites you to connect with the symbolism of the Chakana while crafting a personalized pendant. Josefina will guide you through each step, helping you create a unique piece that reflects your own interpretation of the Chakana and its cultural significance. Whether you’re familiar with polymer clay or a complete beginner, this workshop will provide a relaxed, supportive environment to explore your creativity. At the end of the evening, you’ll leave with your own custom-made pendant, a meaningful piece of art that bridges your personal story with the deep traditions of the Andean culture. All materials will be provided. No experience necessary, just bring your imagination and respect for tradition! For those who want to take their experience further and display their creations, 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 Crafting 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. This workshop will take place on April 24, at 7 p.m. Photos by Afnan Yakot Ximena Montecino Ximena Montecino is a Visual and Multidisciplinary Artist based in Toronto. Since she was little, Ximena was passionate about painting. She began painting in oils at the age of eight, showing a clear artistic motivation, so she subsequently perfected herself year after year, improving her skills. With more than 20 years of experience in art, She began exhibiting her paintings in 2016, she has participated in collective exhibitions and SOLO Exhibition, her paintings have been exhibited in Chile, the USA, Canada and France to date. She does painting classes, live painting and her own commissions. Josefina Vera Toro Josefina Vera Toro, also known as Pepa, is a Chilean designer based in Tkaronto since 2017. Her primary mediums include digital art, polymer clay, bookbinding, mending, and embroidery. Through her work, she aims to recreate the meaningful in-person connections that have shaped her since migrating. She believes that sharing knowledge is one of the most powerful skills humans can possess. Photo Credit: Unkown

Page Title REGISTERED CHARITIES Available for registered charities hosting community events. WEEKDAY & WEEKEND Rate (4 hrs): $250 Per Extra Hr: +$50 PERSONAL USE For events like baby showers, birthdays, or gatherings (excl. weddings) WEEKDAY & WEEKEND Rate (4 hrs): $500 Per Extra Hr: +$100 COMMERCIAL BUSINESSES For events generating profit beyond costs (e.g., ticketed or business events) WEEKDAY (MONDAY TO THURSDAY) Rate (4 hrs): $500 Per Extra Hr: +$100 WEEKEND (FRIDAY TO SUNDAY) Rate (4 hrs): $750 Per Extra Hr: +$150 WEDDINGS Applies to all weddings, with weekday and weekend rates. WEEKDAY (MONDAY TO THURSDAY) Rate (4 hrs): $500 Per Extra Hr: +$100 WEEKEND (FRIDAY TO SUNDAY) Rate (4 hrs): $750 Per Extra Hr: +$150 EQUITY-DESERVING GROUPS Reduced rates available; see the Booking Form for eligibility criteria. WEEKDAY & WEEKEND Rate (4 hrs): $250 Per Extra Hr: +$50 PUBLIC HOLIDAY RATES Holiday rates apply on: New Year’s Day, Family Day, Good Friday, Victoria Day, Canada Day, Labour Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year's Eve WEEKDAY & WEEKEND Rate (4 hrs): $750 Per Extra Hr: +$150

2023/09 < Back to Events Flamenco on The Esplanade Live Event - Dance Sept 29 & 30, 2023 David Crombie Park (The Esplanade & Berkeley St) On Sept 29th and 30th, Jamii, in collaboration with FabCollab and artistic director Tamar Ilana, transformed David Crombie Park as a stage for a powerful flamenco experience. The show showcased a brilliant cast of 8 performers (singers, dancers and musicians), who transported the audience in the Flamenco world: Tamar Ilana , Shirlita La Pili, Alison McDonald, Nicolás Hernández, Chendy León, Ana Lía and Lia Grainger gave us their best and we were energized by their passion on stage and captivating performances. A memorable evening on The Esplanade. During the few weeks leading up to the event, brave Esplanadians took flamenco classes (both singing “Cante” and dancing) with artists Alison Macdonald and Shirlita Pili, who are part of the FabCollab collective, with the intent to perform at the show, alongside professional artists. Trust us, this was not an easy thing to do - and they did more than amazing!!! Flamenco looks like a difficult practice: well, it’s more difficult than what it looks like.The rhythm is different than standards ways of counting, coordination is central, so is character and determination. We are very proud for this group who jumped on the train and didn’t give up. The classes led to a public performance, and they displayed, with grace, their hard work to an audience of 500 (total over 4 performances!). It takes bravery and strength to go on stage like this, and geez, they did amazing. CREDITS: CREDITS: Featuring FabCollab Artistic Director: Tamar Ilana Flamenco Guitar: Nicolás Hernández Singer: Ana Lía Dancer: Rocío Conde Dancer: Lia Grainger Percussion: Chendy León Singer and workshop teacher: Shirlita La Pili Dancer and workshop teacher: Alison McDonald WITH THE SUPPORT OF:

EMERGING ARTISTS Jamii's RBC Emerging Artist Program DARWIN PETERS, VISUAL ARTS LEARNING EXPERIENCE WITH JAMII I really enjoyed the people, the scenery and the neighborhood of The Esplanade as I made this community my second home, and now, every day I miss Toronto. The Mashkiki mural was special to everyone around the community as they walked by and witness the creative process or attended the unveiling event. The mural had brought everyone in awe and has been an unforgettable experience for me. SEE PROJECT SEE ARTIST'S PAGE DARWIN PETERS: Darwin Peters is a talented painter and muralist based in Pikangikum First Nation. His paintings are sold around the world and one of his biggest murals, aside the ones he has made at the Eenchokay Birchstick School in Pikangikum, is located in downtown Toronto, on the south wall of the St Lawrence Community Recreation Centre at the heart of The Esplanade for hundreds to enjoy every day. FUNDERS:

DRUMMING AND FILMING LOCAL STORIES BARAZA / BARAZA PIKANGIKUM / BARAZA Pikangikum First Nation Jamii's 7th Visit to Pikangikum 2025 DRUMMING AND VIDEO PORTRAITS III From Toronto to Pikangikum First Nation In October 2025, Jamii embarked on its seventh visit to Pikangikum First Nation since the beginning of this relationship in 2018. Located in Northern Ontario, Pikangikum is a remote fly-in community of about 4,000 people. Rich in natural beauty, cultural heritage, and strong family bonds, Pikangikum also faces challenges related to infrastructure, access to basic needs, and youth well-being. Each visit to Pikangikum is part of Jamii’s long-term commitment to building bridges through art - creating space for connection, cultural exchange, and shared creativity between communities. This year’s project brought together three Toronto-based artists Isorine Marc, Jamii’s Alchemist and project lead, Aline Morales, musician and singer, and Ana Maria Higuera, photographer and videographer. Together, they traveled from Toronto - through Thunder Bay and Sioux Lookout - to Pikangikum, where they spent 9 days at the Eeenchokay Birchstick School, working closely with students, teachers, and community members. Part 1: Music Workshops and Community Performance Under the guidance of musician Aline Morales, Grades 6, 7 and 8 students participated in daily drumming workshops. These sessions introduced them to Brazilian rhythms. Approximately 235 students participated in music initiation workshops - 11 of them all together! The week culminated in a community performance, where the students proudly shared their music with their families and peers. It was such a successful engagement that the school has reinvited Jamii to continue this project in February 2026 and dive further in the learning, focusing intensively on 5 classrooms who will do daily sessions and a performance for the entire school! Part 2: Video Portrait Series In 2022, community members shared that recordings of Elders’ stories were tragically lost in a fire. Jamii’s video portraits series have become a way to rebuild that archive - capturing the voices, languages, and histories of Pikangikum Elders for current and future generations. As such, alongside the music workshops, videographer Ana Maria Higuera and Jamii's Alchemist Isorine Marc continued Jamii’s ongoing Video Portrait Series. The portraits feature Elders, community leaders, and artists, allowing them to share their voices and experiences. This year, the 5 new portraits are capturing beautiful stories: Lloyd Quill shares his experience of residential school and the teachings of the land. Michaela Peters-Turtle tells us about the joy she finds in life in Pikangikum and the support her school provides as she navigates health challenges as a high schooler. Eddie Quill, an Elder, speaks passionately about the importance of keeping the language alive for the younger generation. Valerie Strang, the first graduate in Pikangikum of the Personal Support Worker program, shares her experience working at the Elders’ Home. And McDonald Turtle, from the Pikangikum Education Authority, reflects on the community’s progress over the years and the ongoing need for more housing for the next generation. A work-in-progress screening took place at the end of our visit, and final videos will be released online later in the year. Since the project’s inception, these portraits have collectively reached over 20,000 views on Facebook - the community’s main communication platform - reflecting their deep local impact. Impact and Reflections For students in Pikangikum, the workshops offered opportunities to express themselves through rhythm, movement, and teamwork - building self-esteem and joy through creative collaboration. For Toronto-based artists, the experience provided a transformative exchange - deepening their understanding of Indigenous realities and reinforcing the importance of respectful, long-term relationships between communities. This project continues to demonstrate how art can bridge distances - geographically, culturally, and emotionally - and create shared spaces for storytelling, learning, and connection. Acknowledgements This project is made possible through the generous support of the Ontario Arts Council, the JP Bickell Foundation, and Jamii’s private donors. Our deepest gratitude goes to the Eeenchokay Birchstick School and PIkangikum Education Authority for their partnership, hospitality, and trust, and to the Pikangikum community for welcoming us into their homes once again. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / THURSDAY CREATING / CRAFTING NIGHTS / Photos by Isorine Marc

INDOOR ACTIVITIES / LAINI / AROUND THE WORLD LAINI Youth Wednesday & Thursday After School A Jamii initiative to encourage girls and young women to explore art and leadership! AROUND THE WORLD May to August 2021 - Ages: 16-25 yrs old Led by Paulina O'Kieffe Anthony In partnership with Soulpepper Theatre, young women were able to meet weekly over the Summer to listen together to a series of audio plays with lead artist Paulina O'Kieffe-Anthony facilitating conversations around the themes of each of the audio plays. To learn more about their project, visit: jamii.ca/illuminatedperspectives Paulina O’Kieffe-Anthony is an award winning writer, performer, producer, arts educator and community advocate.  She is a 2x SLAM Poetry Nationals finalist, Tedx speaker and is regularly featured at When Sister's Speak.

< 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

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:

An empowering workshop series tailored for girls and young women of The Esplanade seeking to discover their leadership skills through the world of theatre! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / LAINI / DRAMA WORKSHOPS LAINI Youth Wednesday & Thursday After School A Jamii initiative to encourage girls and young women to explore art and leadership! DRAMA WORKSHOPS March to May 2024 - Grades 1 to 12 Led by Alix Sideris Embark on a transformative 12-week journey with LAINI Drama Workshop Series for girls and young women of The Esplanade community, a unique and empowering program tailored for participants seeking to discover and hone their leadership skills through the enchanting world of theatre. The workshop series culminates in a show for parents, showcasing the girls' newfound talents and the outcome of their creative endeavors. Weekly Workshops: Over the course of 12 weeks, participants will engage in dynamic, hands-on weekly workshops, each meticulously designed to unlock a specific aspect of theatrical excellence. Lead Artist Alix Sideris: The workshops will be led by Alix Sideris. Alix is a professional actor, writer, director, movement director, writer and art education facilitator. She has performed in numerous theatre, TV, and film productions. A graduate of Concordia University, Alix has worked as an acting/movement instructor at many institutions across Canada. She is also a proud mentor to many emerging artists. Scriptwriting Mastery: Our lead artist will guide the girls in the art of scriptwriting, helping them develop narratives that captivate the audience and reflect their unique voices and perspectives. Costume Creation Extravaganza: Participants will explore the art of costume design. From conceptualization to realization, they will learn to express their characters visually and craft costumes that bring their stories to life. Set Design and Construction: The girls will create the perfect backdrop for their stories, learning the the importance of visual storytelling and attention to detail. Character Development Workshop: Through exercises and activities, girls will explore the intricacies of character development, learning to infuse their roles with authenticity and emotion. Grand Finale – A Theatrical Triumph for Parents: The 12-week journey culminates in a theatrical production where the girls take center stage to showcase their achievements. Free of charge - Register now! Tailored for girls grades 1 - 12. This workshop series fosters creativity, teamwork, and leadership, encourages self-expression and confidence and provides a supportive and inclusive environment. LAINI Theatre Workshop Series is more than just a drama class; it's a platform for girls to embrace their leadership potential while discovering the joy of storytelling. Grade 1 & 2: From March 21 to May 30 - Every Thursday at 5:30pm - 6:30pm Grade 3 to 5: From March 21 to May 30 - Every Thursday at 3:30pm - 5pm Grade 6 to 8: From March 20 to May 29 - Every Wednesday at 3:30pm - 5pm Grade 9 to 12 (Volunteering Program): From March 20 to May 29 - Every Wednesday at 5:30pm - 7pm - Volunteer hours for high school students! Alix Sideris is a professional actor, writer, director, movement director, and educator. She has performed in theatres across Canada, was also a resident actor in the National Arts Centre’s English Theatre Ensembles, voiced characters in Assassins Creed: Odyssey, Valhalla, and her latest film, Better Days, can be streamed on Apple TV. Alix has had the blessing of teaching at the Stratford Festival, The Royal Conservatory of Music, the Glen Gould School, Randolph Academy, York University, Young People’s Theatre, and the Canadian Children’s Opera Company, to name a few. Alix had the joy of facilitating movement dramaturgy for Jamii’s 41 Neighbours in 2015 and they are very happy to be back and working with the wonderful young artists at LAINI! Photo by Trish Lindstrom

< 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

INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY CELEBRATIONS / 2025 INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY Jamii's Annual Celebrations 2025 - 7th Year! On June 21, 2025, we were thrilled to host Jamii’s 7th Annual National Indigenous Peoples Day celebration in David Crombie Park — and what a beautiful evening it was! The event featured the powerful performance of Aqua Nibii Waawaaskone with their band, Red Rhythm & Blues. Accompanied by the talented violinist Brittany Iwanciwski and gifted singer-songwriter Leah Holtom, their music became a symbol of reconciliation on our shared lands, creating a space for healing. In essence, it was soul music made of magic. As part of the celebration, Jamii also honoured its long-standing relationship with Pikangikum First Nation by unveiling a new photo exhibition by Kurri Quill. Titled “Mong'Kah'Job” , the exhibition invited us to see the people of Pikangikum — individuals of all ages navigating their own life journeys — while celebrating their culture and way of being. Kurri’s message was a quiet yet powerful invitation to grow closer, bridge gaps in understanding, and honour the dignity of every story captured through his lens. “Mong'Kah'Job” encouraged us to see one another more fully. The event was guided by Suzanne Smoke, who shared with us Indigenous rhythms of tradition, joined by Dakota Myran’s hand drumming and Abby Myran’s beautiful dance, and offered a beautiful opening and closing ceremony and talks. The celebration also featured face painting with Linda Epp, crafts with Sun Raven Arts, and delicious food by Tea & Bannock. We came together for the food, the music, the dancing, and above all - the joy. Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating Indigenous voices, artistry, and community. Photos by Laura Dittmann

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 Erin Ademoglu Arts Facilitator website Erin Ademoğlu weaves elagance through the wreckage of forgotten factories and graveyards of oyr favourite things. Handcrafted jewelry for women and men. Wearable. Modern & timeless. -Basic Jewellery workshops are available for educational centers and parties for all ages. -Jewelry Styles and techniques: Up-cycled, costume, lost wax carving and silver smiting . << BACK TO ARTISTS

Watch the shared memories Jamii has created in The Esplanade community with The Esplanade community! COMMUNITY PROJECTS / Partnerships EVENT VIDEOS Take a look at shared memories we have created with Esplanade community! The Portrait of Darwin Peters In this video, Darwin shares an intimate approach to his painting work, his inspiration and his hopes. Having faced not only challenges but traumatic experiences in his life, Darwin finds purpose in painting and sharing his artwork with others. You can find more about the event here: Pikangikum Filmed and Edited by Isorine Marc / Additional Editing by Iris Unlu 3rd Annual Wayo Children's Festival! Jamii's Wayo Festival is an invitation to uncover a world of wonders for children and their families. Take a look at this short video of Wayo, took place in August 2022, with a voiceover of Aéla and Zélia, two children participants of Wayo! You can find more aboutthe event here: 3rd Annual Wayo Children's Festival Filmed by Ana Higuera / Edited by Recro Digital Marketing Live at the Kisanii Hub as part of ON Culture Days “Live at the Kisanii Hub” brought arts to The Esplanade as a part of the Ontario Culture Days Regional Hub Program and made The Esplanade Toronto Downtown's only festival hub in 2022! You can find more about the event here: ON Culture Days Video: Recro Digital Marketing Live at The Kisanii Hub Featuring "Echoes" Jamii has developed a cultural experience curated by the Jamii team and the Japanese community in the Esplanade to invite Esplanadians to explore different aspects of Japanese culture through arts. Along with the dance piece of Echoes, The Kisanii Hub also featured live music, Japanese calligraphy, brush ink painting, and origami at the event. You can find more aboutthe event here: Echoes Video: Recro Digital Marketing 1,000 Origami Cranes in the Making 50 members of our community came together to create 1,000 origami cranes which were sent to Japan in commemoration of the 77th year of the Atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Each crane strung is a symbol of hope and a sign of friendship between the Esplanade community and しいの実シアター (the Shiinomi Theatre) community in Japan. You can find more about the event here: Celebrating Cultures Video: Recro Digital Marketing Live at The Kisanii Hub Discover Dance Featuring Nova Dance This special edition of Discover Dance featured award-winning artist Nova Bhattacharya. With Nova, we discussed the personal and dynamic elements of dance and the process of artistic creation, with a focus on Nova Dance new piece; "Svāhā!". Audiences were invited for a deep dive into South Asian culture with music, dance workshops, talks, and henna! You can find more aboutthe event here: Discover Dance Video: Recro Digital Marketing Live at the Kisanii Hub Celebrating Cultures On June 27, we gathered in our park and celebrated all that defines our unique and infinite identities: Culture! For a beautiful moment, we took a breath and moved to the rhythms and sounds from various parts of the world - connecting with one another through our cultural traditions and ancestral teachings. You can find more about the event here: Celebrating Cultures Video: Recro Digital Marketing Live at The Kisanii Hub Celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day In honour of National Indigenous Peoples Day, Jamii hosted an array of Indigenous artists and mediums. From live music, and traditional dance and music with EJ Kwandibens and his daughter Sagatay, to drumming, photo exhibit unveiling and panel discussions, hosting by Jim Adams - our community was graced with stories of Indigenous resurgence, resistance and joy. You can find more about Jamii's 2022's and previous years' celebrations here: Indigenous Peoples Day Celebrations Video: Recro Digital Marketing Live at the Kisanii Hub Featuring Twox30 On June 9th to 11th, Esplanadians gathered in our park spaces to pause, listen, and reflect on our connections with one another and the spaces between us. Through movement, live music, old-school typewriter poems, animated and folklore stories and face painting, people were invited to connect with one another. A gentle way to explore Jamii's 2022 theme: "Water is Memory" You can find more about the event here: Twox30 Video: Recro Digital Marketing Live at The Kisanii Hub Featuring CORPUS' Divine Interventions Five goddesses descended from the heavens to offer Esplandians some blessings! In May 2022, Jamii had the pleasure of hosting the world premiere of Corpus Dance Projects 's Divine Interventions, a musical outdoor processional performance, that took place throughout The Esplanade! We are excited to share a glimpse of the event with you! You can find more about the event here: Divine Interventions Video: Dawar Naeem Video: Dawar Naeem Live at the Kisanii Hub Featuring ApHeart "ApHeart" is a performance by Moonhorse Dance Theatre that Jamii was delighted to present in our community on May 13th and 14th as part one of Jamii's "Live at the Kisanii Hub" series of local events. Esplanadians joined us on May 13th and 14th in David Crombie Park for breathtaking musical performances by Red Rhythm and Blues and Robert Scott, dance performances of "ApHeart" by Moonhorse Dance Theatre and local older adults, captivating storytelling by Jim Adams and Sarah Abusarar, mesmerizing face painting by Linda Epp, and last but not least, high energy hosting with our MC Monica Garrido. You can find more about the event here: ApHeart The Unveiling of Seeing Evergreen Jamii unveiled a photo exhibit, Seeing Evergreen, in David Crombie Park on April 2, 2022. At the unveiling, our host Monica Garrido guided audience members experience with speechees from artists and participant youth and seniors of Seeing Evergreen, henna art and face painting for the young ones, as well as live music by Tennyson King, a singer-musician from Hong Kong and Canada. You can find more about the project and the unveiling here: Seeing Evergreen Video: Dawar Naeem

The Jamii Hub turns into a movie and performance sanctuary on Wednesdays! In February, join us to watch Patty vs. Patty, The Foreigner, The Haircut and Why We Fight directed by Chris Strikes with the artist Maya Annik Bedward. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / WEDNESDAY WATCHING / FORRO - FEBRUARY 2024 WATCHING Wednesday 7 pm Live performances, films and documentaries Forró February 2024 February 7, 14, 21, 2024 Lead: Maya Annik Bedward Embark on a cinematic journey with producer Maya Annik Bedward as we delve into the film "Patty vs. Patty”, "The Foreigner", "The Haircut" and "Why We Fight" directed by Chris Strikes. Following the screening, join us for an engaging discussion with Maya. February 7: With a delightful musical concert featuring Aline Morales and Lauren Barnett "Patty vs. Patty" is the story of Toronto's bizarre 1985 "patty wars," when Jamaican-Canadian bakers went head-to-head with the federal government over the name of their beloved beef patty. February 14: With guest artist Junior Dias “The Foreigner”: When a young recluse uncovers a tropical underground party, he embarks on a journey to shed his timid ways. A poetic portrait of Toronto's Brazilian folk scene, “The Foreigner” is a short film about the magical worlds hidden behind our city walls. “The Haircut”: A short documentary about Marvin Bedward, a 65-year old business executive who refuses to cut his hair. Traumatized by the white barbers who ruined his Afro when he was a child, Marvin sees his long hair as an act of resistance to authority, mainstream culture and his wife. February 21: With guest artist Gerdson Dias Alves, who is also the main subject of “Why We Fight” “Why we fight”: A couple finds strength in Capoeira as they raise their son with a life-threatening condition. A portrait of family and fun, and the day to day challenges of keeping a family together. REGISTER NOW Photos by Isorine Marc, Karen Lam Maya Annik Bedward Maya Annik Bedward is a producer, director and co-founder of Third Culture Media. Her productions have screened at TIFF, Hot Docs, Black Star and the New Orleans Film Festival. Her recent production PATTY VS. PATTY won best Short Documentary at the 2023 Canadian Screen Awards. Maya has directed episodes for the docuseries BLK: AN ORIGIN STORY (History Channel, Global TV) and the variety comedy series, LIDO TV (CBC Gem). Committed to fostering a more equitable and inclusive industry, she stands as a founding member of the Black Screen Office and mentors through the OYA Emerging Filmmakers Program. Instagram Photo by Andreea Muscurel

OUTDOOR EVENTS / WIND STORIES - 2020 Wind Stories Summer 2020 “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. Click here to find more information about this project Wind Stories Wawa Wind Stories Wolfe Island PHOTO CREDITS

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Tugce Alemdar Visual Artist website Tugce was born in Istanbul, Turkey. She has studied philosophy at Istanbul University, then she has done her master’s in philosophy of art at Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University. She has always interested in visual arts but she professionally started while she was doing her master’s degree. She always finds art as a way of exposing absurdity of the system that we live in. This is why she makes satires by drawing herself criticizing her life and social issues. She also makes abstract paintings regarding existence and its heaviness. She is currently studying Psychology at York University, and planning to do her master’s in Social Work. << BACK TO ARTISTS

INDOOR ACTIVITIES / LAINI / JEWELLERY MAKING LAINI Youth Wednesday & Thursday After School A Jamii initiative to encourage girls and young women to explore art and leadership! JEWELLERY MAKING September to October 2023 - Grades 7 to 12 Led by Erin Ademoğlu Artist Erin Ademoglu led youth through the world of jewellery making that led to the creation of a mini-showcase to share with family and friends. Through out these 7 weeks, participants learned many new techniques of basic jewellery making, including connecting accessories or other items together, how to use pliers, and opening/closing of jump rings in order to connect pieces. Erin also held a discussion on sustainability, reusable, and up-cycled items. Workshop Activities: Up-cycled multi-purpose keychain from new and old items. Earrings (dangly studs). Materials: Plier, metal pins, learn to bend and shape pins, glue work. Bracelets: pliers, jump rings, wires, using ends to finish wire and chain work. Using new and old items to create. Discussing design, layering. Necklaces, chain, and wire work with new and up-cycled items. Combination everything learned, finishing up projects, and creating new designs and styles of choice. Ring and Cufflink bases will be provided for some glue play, for more unique and possible abstract pieces. Participants can use their own creative instincts, design skills and the techniques that they learned. Erin Ademoğlu weaves elagance through the wreckage of forgotten factories and graveyards of oyr favourite things. Handcrafted jewelry for women and men. Wearable. Modern & timeless. -Basic Jewellery workshops are available for educational centers and parties for all ages. -Jewelry Styles and techniques: Up-cycled, costume, lost wax carving and silver smiting. Erin has experience teaching young people and people of all ages, sharing her passion of jewllery making. Photo Credit: Unknown

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Sagatay Kwandibens Jingle Dancer website Saga kwandibens is a fancy shawl & jingle dress dancer, dancing since the age of 3. She is ojicree & of loon clan decent. Her parents hail from Whitesand and Constance Lake First Nation. << BACK TO ARTISTS

INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY CELEBRATIONS / 2021 INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY Jamii's Annual Celebrations 2021 - 3rd Year! 3rd Annual National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebrations June 21, 2021 at 4 pm David Crombie Park - The Esplanade & Princess St On Monday, June 21st, Jamii initiated a story-sharing circle in David Crombie Park, with the intent to acknowledge National Indigenous Day and honor the Indigenous peoples on whose land we currently reside. Jim Adams, Jamii co-President and a member of the Tkaronto Indigenous arts community for many years, and the whole Jamii family, invited community members to listen and reflect as guest Indigenous artists share stories with us. Guest artists include Kim Wheatley, Sue Croweagle, Jennifer Alicia, Leonard Benoit, and Aria Evans. It was an honor for Jamii to welcome such respected guests in our community. The event was supported by Canadian Heritage and Canada Council for the Arts | Conseil des arts du Canada. Photos by Delphy Photography

OUTDOOR EVENTS / MUDLARK - 2023 Mudlark December 2023 On December 8th and 9th 2023, audiences embarked on a whimsical journey with Mudlark, a theatrical shadow puppetry performance of a young girl who seeks a place to call home among the enchanting stories of the Esplanade neighbourhood. Spectators experienced her navigation through time, witnessing the land's resilience and ever-evolving history. They discovered the warmth of a home, dreamt of the future alongside her, and added their unique touch to this immersive and interactive show. “Mudlark” is a show that merges music, dance, and shadow puppetry, conceptualized byprofessional artists with the creative contributions of Esplanadians of all ages who attended multiple workshops to create music, contribute to the storyline, and craft shadow puppets. Thank you to all 400 who attended our performances of Mudlark! A series of performances presented in partnership with Canadian Stage ! CREDITS: Artistic Direction: Isorine MarcMusical Direction: Aline Morales, Lauren BarnettShadow Puppetry: Brescia Nember ReidCreative Consultant: Sarah N. AhmadScene 1 written by Mahlikah OuttenScenes 2 to 6 written by Sharon Zarita AdhiamboPerformers: Aline Morales, Lauren Barnett, Brescia Nember Reid, Troy Feldman, Karen Lam, Nickeshia Garrick, Mahlikah The Moonrise Poet, Hafsa IsmailWith performances by community members: Nesrin, Keiron, Kolpana, Norita,Production: Maria Paula Triviño, Iris Unlu, Yusra Yacout, Afnan YakotWith creative contribution of community members and Downtown Alternative School students. Supported By: PHOTO CREDITS

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

Beginner and Intermediate Friendly Projects INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / SEWING / OCTOBER CYCLE - SEWING SEWING Cycles Workshops Beginner and Intermediate Friendly Projects October 2026 OCTOBER CYCLE - SEWING Wednesday, October 7, 14, 21, and 28 from 7 PM to 9 PM Artist: To be Announced Important registration note: New this year, participants must register separately for each workshop session they plan to attend. To complete a registration for the full month, participants need to register each session as we expect participants to attend all sessions of that month. All materials are provided by Jamii, removing barriers and allowing participants to focus fully on the creative process. No previous sewing experience is required. Participants will leave with a completed kimono and the confidence to take on future sewing projects at home. Workshops are free for participants, but registration is required and space is limited. Spots fill quickly, so be sure to register ahead of time. Support free community arts Jamii offers workshops free of charge so that everyone can take part. If you’re able, you can help pay it forward by making a donation through Jamii’s website . Your support helps sustain accessible, community-rooted arts experiences for neighbours of all ages. Jamii’s October Cycle is sponsored by Cana REGISTRATIONS OPEN ON SEPT 10 Photos by Ghader Bsmar, Anita Boey Photo Credit: Unknown ARTIST BIO: To be announced UPCOMING DATES Participants must commit to one full month. You must register separately for each workshop session within that month to complete your registration. If we don't receive your registration for each workshops within that month, we will not be able to complete your registration. Wed, Feb 11 February Cycle - Sewing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Feb 11, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sew at your own pace and create a handmade kimono. A four-part sewing series led by Diséiye Thompson. Free with registration. +12 more Wed, Feb 18 February Cycle - Sewing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Feb 18, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sew at your own pace and create a handmade kimono. A four-part sewing series led by Diséiye Thompson. Free with registration. +12 more Wed, Feb 25 February Cycle - Sewing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Feb 25, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sew at your own pace and create a handmade kimono. A four-part sewing series led by Diséiye Thompson. Free with registration. +12 more

INDOOR ACTIVITIES / SPECIAL EVENTS / SEWING WORKSHOP - INTERMEDIATE SPECIAL EVENTS Fundraising Sewing Studio Series SEWING WORKSHOP - INTERMEDIATE August 17 - 10:30am to 5:30pm SEWING STUDIO SERIES - INTERMEDIATE LEVEL Facilitated by Mariam Ahmad DATE & TIME: Sunday, August 17 I 10:30am to 5:30pm Includes a one-hour lunch break (1:00 PM to 2:00PM). The last hour of the workshop (from 4:30pm to 5:30pm) is dedicated to further individual practice or work on your own projects with assistance from our team. LOCATION: The Jamii Hub – 264 The Esplanade, Toronto ON M5A 4J6 COST: $150 per session This is a fundraising initiative for Jamii. The actual value of the workshop is $75, and the remaining $75 is a charitable donation. Participants will receive a tax receipt for the donation portion. WHAT YOU WILL LEARN: We’ll begin with a quick review of basic sewing skills and introduce key intermediate techniques like working with interfacing, clean corner finishes, and proper seam pressing. You’ll also get comfortable with following pattern markings specific to our project. Then we’ll dive into constructing a denim vest, applying hem finishes and shaping armholes and necklines using facings or bias tape. Prior experience required: Participants should be confident using a sewing machine, familiar with basic stitches, and able to follow a pattern. Previous completion of a few sewing projects is expected. OOPS, THIS EVENT IS OVER Photos by Ghader Bsmar MARIAM AHMAD Mariam Ahmad learned to sew as a child using hand-pedalled Singer machines alongside her grandmother. Her work blends Eastern heritage and ancestral textile traditions to create romantic silhouettes filled with nostalgia. Mariam is passionate about teaching others and is a strong facilitator: Mariam has led sewing workshops for all levels with Jamii and other organizations in Toronto.

The Jamii Hub turns into a crafting sanctuary twice a month on Thursdays! In March, you are invited to learn how to paint talevera tiles led Alejandra Higuera. TALEVERA TILES - MARCH 2024 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / THURSDAY CREATING / CRAFTING NIGHTS / CREATING Thursday 7 pm Crafting Nights TALEVERA TILES March 2024 March 14 - 21, 2024 Facilitator: Alejandra Higuera In Crafting Nights in the month of March, we delve into the rich history of Talevera Tiles, a tradition steeped in artistry and community. Talevera Tiles traces its roots back to a small village where artisans discovered a unique method of crafting vibrant and intricate tiles. Talavera pottery originated in Spain. From the 11th century through 1492, Muslims from northern Africa, commonly referred to at the time as Moors, spread the techniques and designs of Islamic lusterware pottery as they inhabited various regions of the Iberian peninsula. Over generations, this tradition evolved into a cherished communal practice, where each tile became a canvas for stories, culture, and shared experiences. Today, we revive this timeless tradition in our community. This workshop is not just about painting tiles; it's about weaving the threads of our stories into a mosaic of shared history. So, let your creativity flow, embrace the spirit of Talevera Tiles, and let's together create masterpieces that will tell our stories! Reserve your spot now. Photos by Afnan Yakot Alejandra Higuera Alejandra Higuera (she/her) is a queer multidisciplinary, visual storyteller focusing on creating poetic visuals through different mediums: video, illustration, animation, embroidery, and projection. Her work focuses on themes of migration, feminism, memory, grief, ritual and being a solo parent by centering the intricate stories of immigrant, queer, and BIPOC resilience, exploring how healing leads us to re-imaging ourselves. As a Latinx artist, Alejandra supports our ever-changing identities, resisting homogenization through a decolonizing lens. Alejandra spends a lot of her time being curious: making up songs and languages, learning about plants, drawing, and being creative with her seven-year-old kiddo. Instagram Photo by Ana Higuera

The Jamii Hub turns into a crafting sanctuary twice a month on Thursdays! In May, you are invited to explore the essence of Mizuhiki, a traditional paper cord, delving into its history, significance, and versatility. MIZUHIKI ART - MAY 2024 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / THURSDAY CREATING / CRAFTING NIGHTS / CREATING Thursday 7 pm Crafting Nights MIZUHIKI ART May 2024 May 16 - 23, 2024 Facilitator: Ayami Terasawa In this series of two workshops led by Ayami Terasawa, you are invited to explore the essence of Mizuhiki, a traditional paper cord, delving into its history, significance, and versatility. Mizuhiki, deeply rooted in Japanese culture, serves vital roles in ceremonies like weddings and funerals as a decorative knot to seal gifts, traditionally in red and white, though its color palette has evolved over time. Participants will enjoy a unique opportunity to delve into both traditional techniques and modern interpretations of Mizuhiki art, crafting accessories such as earrings, blending intricate knots with contemporary designs—a chance to uncover tradition with a modern twist. Photos by Afnan Yakot Ayami Terasawa Originally from Tokyo, Japan. Ayami Terasawa discovered Mizuhiki, Japanese traditional paper cord, jewelry during the pandemic and instantly fell in love with its artistry. Inspired by its tradition and beauty, she began crafting her own pieces. She finds joy in blending the old with the new, creating pieces that bring a touch of brightness to those who wear them. Photo Credit: Unknown

2018 - 2019 - 2020 Wind Stories 2018 - 2019 - 2020 In September & October 2018, with the intent to build new bridges between 5 communities in Ontario through the arts and community engagement, the Jamii team visited Pikangikum First Nation, Wawa, Michicipoten First Nation and Wolfe Island. We visited each community with an open mind to allow organic conversations. Our intent was to listen and share our journey with local community arts organizations, meet people, artists and community activists and potentially create something wonderful together in a near future. Why these communities? Because three Esplanadians have strong ties in each of them: Darren Marshall is from Wawa, Asmita Pal taught in Pikangikum and Kerryn Graham lived with her family in Wolfe Island. All three are our ambassadors on this project and act as connectors between all our people to create genuine dialogue. Indigenous spoken word artist Mahlikah Awe:ri, Enml'ga't Saqama'sgw has been accompanying Isorine Marc, Executive and Artistic Director of Jamii, along with the ambassadors on each of the visits to these 4 communities. Click here to find more information about Wind Stories series

Culture Cloths FORRO - FEBRUARY 2024 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / TUESDAY DISCOVERING / CULTURE CLOTHS / LEARNING Tuesday 7 pm Culture Cloths FORRÓ February 2024 February 13, 2024 Lead Artist: Aline Morales This months 'Culture Cloths' edition will use textile, fabric and apparel from Northeastern Brazil to explore 'Forro'. Participants will hear from musician and Jamii's Lead Artist for the month Aline Morales about the particular meanings and histories associated with clothing and textile from the region. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Ghader Bamar, Isorine Marc, May Chook Sabrine S. Hakam | Instagram Sabrine S. Hakam is a Toronto-based artist and thinker whose style of symbolism-infused portraits foster discussions on identity, representation, and power. Sabrine holds a PhD in Geography (Arts) from King’s College London, as well as an MSc in Urbanisation and Development from the London School of Economics, an MPhil in Development Studies from the University of Oxford, and a BSc from New York University. Her work situates itself at the nexus of academia and art in order to humanize the subjects of academic work.

INDOOR ACTIVITIES / SPECIAL EVENTS / JAMII BAZAAR SPECIAL EVENTS Fundraising Cute Finds, Great Prices, Big Community Vibes! JAMII BAZAAR March 15, 2025 - 1pm Hey parents, young professionals, and deal hunters—come check out a fantastic selection of high-quality and brand-new stationery, puzzles, games, and household must-haves at "wait, it's less than $10!?!" suggested donation amounts. Plus, we’ve got some "like-new" second-hand finds for those who love a good treasure hunt! Free coffee in one hand, and fun chats with your neighbours in the other. Come for the deals, stay for the vibes (and maybe snag that brand-new cute cat mug)! We were donated brand-new items and we're opening our doors to offer them with a suggested donation (between $1 to $10) to support Jamii’s free arts workshops! Who doesn’t like an afternoon of bargain hunting and community fun!? From cute stationery and home office must-haves (think: fun notebooks, weekly planner bulletin boards, and even a cozy lap desk with a soft pillow) to puzzles, games, and more — we've got treasures waiting for you! Why should you swing by? Epic deals: Snag high-quality, brand-new, trendy items. Community vibes: Hang out, sip free coffee or tea, and chit chat with people. Feel-good shopping: Every dollar you spend supports Jamii's free arts workshops for the community. Sweet Treats for a Cause: Some of our wonderful community members will be selling baked goods, with all proceeds going directly to support Jamii’s free programs. Treat yourself while giving back! PLUS: Don't miss our raffle! We’re thrilled to be offering two stunning paintings, titled Wildflower (2024) and Otter (N’gig) (2024) by Indigenous artist Darwin Peters, a beloved figure in our community. Grab your tickets for a chance to take home a piece of meaningful art: Feeling Lucky: $20 for 1 ticket In It to Win It: $35 for 2 tickets Art Lover, Big Supporter: $60 for 4 tickets The raffle tickets are available to purchase both in-person and online through this link ! By purchasing tickets to this raffle, you’ll support an Indigenous artist from Pikangikum First Nation as well as Jamii. Darwin Peters has generously pledged to donate $100 from each painting sold to Jamii’s upcoming visit to Pikangikum in 2025! So bring your best shopping buddy, your shopping bag/cart, your wallet (cash, credit, and debit accepted), and your love for a great find. First come, first served—don’t miss out on the cutest, most stylish, and most useful steals of the season! We take cash, credit, and debit, so no excuses. We will not be providing any shopping bags, please bring your own! See you there for a fun, feel-good shopping spree! OOPS, THIS EVENT IS OVER Photos by Isorine Marc and Iris Unlu

2024 OUTDOOR EVENTS / WAYO / WAYO 2024 WAYO 2024 JAMII'S 5TH ANNUAL CHILDREN'S FESTIVAL WAYO returned to our community from August 7th to 11th, 2024, for a memorable 5th edition, bringing fun and wonder for the whole family! Jamii once again transformed the historic Berkeley Castle and the Berkekey Theatre (Canadian Stage) into a vibrant, adventure-filled space, where families and children explored a diverse array of art installations and performances. The festival’s theme, “Animals' Stories,” was explored through dance, music, storytelling, installations, theatre, and crafts, celebrating animals from around the world—sheep, farm animals, bears, caribou, possums, orcas, and many more. The 5th WAYO Children's Festival showcased an impressive lineup of artists and performances. Highlights included Les Moutons by CORPUS, enchanting audiences with its whimsical portrayal of sheep; stunning photography by Kenyan artist Edwin Maina, introduced by Matthew Krist, Troy Feldman, and Patrick de Belen; engaging storytelling by Germaine Konji with puppets from Clay and Paper Theatre; and a breathtaking performance blending shadows, dance, and sound installation with Brescia Reid (Knives Shadows), Kenyan artist Maulid Owino, and Hafsa Ismail. The festival concluded with a moving hoop dance by Emilee Ann Pitawanakwat, who shared Indigenous knowledge with festivalgoers. At the end of the journey through the two heritage buildings, Berkeley Castle and Berkeley Theatre, families enjoyed an exciting crafting section where children could dive into the world of origami, folding paper into charming animals like bunnies, whales, goldfish, butterflies, and foxes. As shared by attendees, WAYO was undoubtedly a summer highlight for all the young participants! Supported by August 7 to 11 LOCATION Berkeley Castle & Berkeley Theatre WAYO Children’s Festival 2024 - Credits CREDITS Presented and Produced by Jamii In Partnership with Canadian Stage and Berkeley Castle ARTISTS Les moutons (The Sheep) by CORPUS Conceived and choreographed by David Danzon & Sylvie Bouchard  Directed by David Danzon Performers:  Robert Feetham, Giulia Pittiglio, Nicola Pantin, Christian Lavigne, Daibei Wang Costumes: Joanne Leblanc Stage Manager: Natalia Długosz Safari for Little People  Photography by Edwin Maina (Kenya)  Performer: Troy Feldman (Aug 7 & 8), Matthew Krist (Aug 9), Patrick de Belen (Aug 10 & 11) Storytelling Circle Storyteller: Germaine Konji (they/them) Puppets created by Clay and Paper Theatre Shadow Puppetry Show Shadow puppets created and performed by Drawing with Knives Shadows (Brescia Reid) and Hafsa Ismail Dancer: Maulid Owino (Kenya) Indigenous Hoop Dance Dancer: Emilee Ann Pitawanakwat  Face painter: Linda Epp WAYO STAFF Founder & Alchemist (Artistic & Executive Director): Isorine Marc Implementer (Events & Project Manager): May Chook Amplifier (Director of Communications): Iris Unlu Enabler (Administrator): Yusra Yacout Community Arts Coordinator: Karen Lam Communications Assistant: Christiana Ceesay Event crew: Akram Yacout, Alyssa Mackenzie, Hakeem Ali, Kai Muyoboke, MJ Osman, Omer Osman, Tyson Pinette-Hubschmann Craft station leads: Hadeal Karrar, May Yu, Nada Yakot, Raecheal Goddard Photos by: Jae Yang

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Darwin Peters Painter website Darwin Peters is a talented painter and muralist based in Pikangikum First Nation. His paintings are sold around the world and one of his biggest murals, aside the ones he has made at the Eenchokay Birchstick School in Pikangikum, is located in downtown Toronto, on the south wall of the St Lawrence Community Recreation Centre at the heart of The Esplanade for hundreds to enjoy every day. << BACK TO ARTISTS

EMERGING ARTISTS Jamii's RBC Emerging Artist Program SHILPA SHAH, VISUAL ARTS LEARNING EXPERIENCE WITH JAMII From mid-2024 into early 2025, artist Shilpa Shah took part in an enriching mentorship through Jamii, supported by the RBC Emerging Artist Program. Guided by lead mentor Isorine Marc, and with additional support from social media strategist Iris Unlu and peer artists Alejandra Higuera, Laura Dittmann and Sabrine S Hakam, Shilpa’s experience was rooted in collaboration, community, and creative empowerment. “This mentorship program helped me establish foundational steps to build an art career upon. My time with Isorine gave me invaluable skills around planning artistic goals and cultivating my artistic voice with greater clarity.” - Shilpa The mentorship began with the foundational work of defining Shilpa’s artistic mission and vision. With Isorine’s guidance, Shilpa developed a brand identity and the name for her creative business, Huereign . Together, they crafted her artist statement and carved out intentional time for Shilpa to focus on her body of work. This first stage laid the groundwork for what would become a broader and more public-facing artistic journey. Over the following months, Shilpa launched her own portfolio website and began developing a thoughtful social media strategy to build her online presence. With mentorship from Iris Unlu, she learned to navigate digital platforms with confidence—overcoming initial hesitations and discovering creative ways to share her art with the world. Shilpa describes this phase as transformative, crediting Iris for helping her feel empowered and inspired to use online spaces meaningfully. In parallel with her digital growth, Shilpa also participated in a professional photoshoot with photographer Sabrine S Hakam and was the focus of a video portrait by Laura Dittmann. The video beautifully captures Shilpa’s creative intent and process, offering audiences an intimate look at the heart behind her work. Community engagement became another powerful pillar of this mentorship. Through Jamii’s “Belonging” program for older adults, Shilpa facilitated two workshop series - one centered on watercolor landscapes and another exploring color theory through mandala-making. These workshops not only allowed her to refine her teaching and facilitation skills but also offered a meaningful way to integrate her background in mental health with her evolving artistic voice. Storytelling, emotional expression, and a sense of connection were all woven into her approach. Throughout the mentorship, Shilpa also engaged in valuable conversations with fellow artists. A walk-and-talk with artist Alejandra Higuera offered her insights into the realities of balancing motherhood and a creative practice, especially as a newcomer to Canada. The exchange reminded Shilpa of the importance of community, self-compassion, and honoring one’s drive to create even amidst life’s transitions. This period of growth revealed not only a deepening of Shilpa’s artistic identity but also her expanding role as an artist-educator and community builder. The support she received helped her refine her vision, strengthen her public presence, and begin actively shaping a career rooted in creativity, connection, and care. SEE PROJECT SEE ARTIST'S PAGE SHILPA SHAH: Shilpa Shah is a visual artist and former psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner whose work is deeply rooted in themes of mental wellness, emotional landscapes, and spiritual creativity. She chose the name Huereign to honour the sovereignty of God’s colours and the sacred unfolding of creativity through her art. Shilpa’s love for drawing and painting began in childhood and remained a quiet constant alongside her professional journey in mental health. Her lived experiences, both personal and clinical, have given her an intimate understanding of the invisible battles many face, and this lens now shapes the heart of her artistic practice. Returning to life as a full-time artist, she continues to explore the intersections of inner healing and expressive colour. Working primarily with watercolor crayons, coloured pencils, pigment pens, and even Crayola markers, Shilpa brings vibrant, layered compositions to life. Her pieces often explore the themes of abundance, home, belonging, emotions, and possibility. Through rich colour palettes and detailed imagery, she invites viewers into visual conversations that evoke a sense of hope, reflection, and connection. Shilpa holds a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art from the University of California at Irvine and a Master of Science in Nursing from Columbia University. During her undergraduate studies, she was selected for an honors studio and received the Steven Criqui Memorial Scholarship Award. Her artwork has been featured in exhibitions across California and New York, including solo and award-winning shows at UC Irvine, El Camino College, the Healdsburg Center for the Arts, and the Augustus C. Long Health Sciences Library, where she received Best in Show. Currently based in Toronto, Shilpa is a 2024-2025 participant in Jamii’s RBC Emerging Artist Program. FUNDERS:

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

2022 OUTDOOR EVENTS / WAYO / WAYO 2022 WAYO 2022 JAMII'S 3RD ANNUAL CHILDREN'S FESTIVAL Toronto's only children's parkour festival for the arts, Wayo, was an invitation to uncover a world of wonders for children and their families. Designed as a whimsical journey through the Berkeley Castle and Berkeley Theatre with arts happenings at every turn, this unique experience was filled up with music, dance, crafts, storytelling and more! With Wayo, children and their families stepped into a magical arts experience while engaging in conversations around social, and environmental justice issues that impact our local and global communities. Wayo featured amazing artists including dancer Raoul Wilke, singer and musician Aline Morales, hoop dancer Valentina Morelli, storyteller Monique Diabo and many more! "My daughter saw the time keeper dancing and told me she’s going to dance like that! She LOVED the drums - I almost couldn’t get her to move on. She wanted to heal the cracks in the water (which almost meant touch the water lol) and added that love will heal the water." Audience Member "Wayo is now the highlight of the summer for my daughter. She raves about it to her friends and teachers at daycare!" Audience Member Supported by August 18 to 20 LOCATION Berkeley Castle & Berkeley Theatre CREDITS Presented and Produced by Jamii In Partnership with Canadian Stage and Berkeley Castle ARTISTS Wayo’s Artistic Direction and Concept: Isorine Marc Performing Artists: Aline Morales, Anna Noel (Artists’ Play), Linda Epp, Miss Coco Murray, Monique Diabo, Raoul Wilke, Ryan Stephenson (Artists’ Play), Sarah Abusarar, Tara Moneka, Valentina Morelli WAYO STAFF Festival Guides: Barbara Johnston, Daniela Arango, Monica Garrido, Sofia Rodriguez, Trudylee Gayle Jamii Production Team: Hadeal Karrar, Iris Unlu, Isorine Marc, Maysam Ghani, Nadifa Daud Mohamed, Yusra Yacout Tech and Support Team: Akram Yacout, Jasenya Senethviely, Raecheal Goddard, Rajean Hoilett, Shaima Yacout Special Thanks to Our Volunteers: Aéla Kuria, Francesca Sempira, Idman Hersi, Jumanah Al-Hazari, Maryam Al-Hazari, Ruthmarie Williams, Stella Du Soleil Special Thanks: Market Gallery Photos by: Jae Yang

2023/09 < Back to Events Jamii Party Community Gathering September 23, 2023 The Jamii Hub The end of Summer, going into Fall, and we felt like celebrating: We threw a Jamii Party for the community, and everyone was invited! We had a great time on September 23rd with music, dance, food, and even a raffle to win a bike! It was a great opportunity to acknowledge all those who contributed to making what Jamii is, from the team members, the Board of directors, and all those who worked behind the scenes to create magic. We shared some tasty food, good music, and plenty of room to dance at The Jamii Hub! CREDITS: Organized by the Jamii Team! WITH THE SUPPORT OF:

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

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Sharon Zarita Adhiambo Writer website Sharon Zarita Adhiambo is a Kenyan arts administrator, consultant and creative leader whose heart beats for holistic development of people and communities through artistic experiences. Zarita has worked in the arts sector in Kenya and Canada producing projects centered on self expression, social integration, and cultural celebration. Her work is grounded in creating barrier-free spaces where everyone can explore the artist in them while remaining authentic in their identity and stories. Apart from being an arts worker, she strengthens the industry as a mentor and advocate for arts progression. Zarita holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Arts Administration from Humber College and is currently the Arts Program Officer at Assembly Hall, City of Toronto. She is also the founder of Sekoya East Africa, a non-profit that provides emerging crafters and other artists in Kenya accessible professional development resources and mentorship to advance their careers locally, produce artwork with a global influence and have a peer community to belong to. Since 2019, she has worked with Jamii in various capacities and projects with the most recent being The Little Esplanade. She is delighted to join Jamii’s community this March as a guest curator alongside other incredible artists.   << BACK TO ARTISTS

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Daniel Hamin Cellist website The first time Daniel Hamin Go picked up the cello, he was 12. As he drew the bow across an open C string, the cello’s vibrations resonated throughout his entire body. He remembers being moved and filled with light - a light that has guided his desire to explore the truth that lies in life, in music, and in himself. The 27-year-old Korean-Canadian cellist is now recognised as a special artist that forms deep connections with audiences across the world, sharing performances that demand a full commitment to emotional expression. As a passionate recitalist and chamber musician, Daniel has performed throughout North America and Europe collaborating with renowned musicians including Jonathan Biss, Miriam Fried, Ida Kavafian, Daniel Philips, Rachel Podger, and Fazil Say; appearing in concert halls such as Berliner Philharmonie, Cadogan, Carnegie Hall, Flagey Studios, and Konzerthaus Berlin; with festival invitations to Four Seasons Chamber Music Festival, IMS Prussia Cove, Kronberg Academy’s Cello Masterclass, Krzyzowa Music, Mendelssohn on Mull, Music Academy of the West, Ravinia's Steans Institute of Music, Tsinandali Festival, and Yellow Barn, where he finds inspiration working with artists such as Steven Isserlis, Ferenc Rados, and Rita Wagner. Daniel received a Bachelor of Music from the Manhattan School of Music under the tutelage of Julia Lichten and David Geber, a Master of Music at the Hochschule für Musik 'Hanns Eisler' Berlin in the class of Nicolas Altstaedt, and as a recipient of the prestigious Bicentenary Award and the Drake Calleja Trust Award, Daniel completed an Advanced Diploma at the Royal Academy of Music. During the 2021-22 season, Daniel was an artist-in-residence at the coveted Queen Elisabeth Music Chapel working closely with Gary Homan. During the 2022-23 season, Daniel held a fellowship position at the Royal Conservatory of Music’s Rebanks Family Fellowship and International Residency Program. In addition to cello, Daniel loves to dance (especially dierent styles of street dance such as waacking, krumping, voguing), explore fashion - and sing! << BACK TO ARTISTS

2023/12 < Back to Events Mudlark Live Event December 8 & 9 David Crombie Park On December 8th and 9th 2023, audiences embarked on a whimsical journey with Mudlark, a theatrical shadow puppetry performance of a young girl who seeks a place to call home among the enchanting stories of the Esplanade neighbourhood. Spectators experienced her navigation through time, witnessing the land's resilience and ever-evolving history. They discovered the warmth of a home, dreamt of the future alongside her, and added their unique touch to this immersive and interactive show. “Mudlark” is a show that merges music, dance, and shadow puppetry, conceptualized byprofessional artists with the creative contributions of Esplanadians of all ages who attended multiple workshops to create music, contribute to the storyline, and craft shadow puppets. Thank you to all 400 who attended our performances of Mudlark! A series of performances presented in partnership with Canadian Stage! CREDITS: Artistic Direction: Isorine Marc Musical Direction: Aline Morales, Lauren Barnett Shadow Puppetry: Brescia Nember Reid Creative Consultant: Sarah N. Ahmad Scene 1 written by Mahlikah Outten Scenes 2 to 6 written by Sharon Zarita Adhiambo Performers: Aline Morales, Lauren Barnett, Brescia Nember Reid, Troy Feldman, Karen Lam, Nickeshia Garrick, Mahlikah The Moonrise Poet, Hafsa Ismail With performances by community members: Nesrin, Keiron, Kolpana, Norita, Production: Maria Paula Triviño, Iris Unlu, Yusra Yacout, Afnan Yakot With creative contribution of community members and Downtown Alternative School students. WITH THE SUPPORT OF:

The Jamii Hub turns into a creative writing sanctuary once a month on Tuesdays! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CREATIVE WRITING / CREATIVE WRITING FROM THE HEART - MARCH 2025 DISCOVERING Tuesday 7 pm Creative Writing March 2025 WRITING FROM THE HEART March 18, 2025 Facilitator: Damilola Olajire (SmilingPen) Writing has the power to uncover the stories we carry and turn them into art. "Creative Writing from the Heart" is a hands-on workshop designed for anyone, whether you're an emerging writer, someone exploring self-expression, or just curious about putting your thoughts into words. Led by poet Damilola Olajire (SmilingPen), this session will guide you through writing exercises that help translate real-life experiences into creative works. With thoughtful prompts, you'll have the space to reflect, experiment, and craft a piece that is uniquely yours. Sharing is optional, but for those who do, it’s an opportunity to connect with like-minded people and hear different perspectives on storytelling. By the end of the workshop, you'll leave with a completed piece of writing, fresh inspiration, and a deeper appreciation for the art of storytelling. Creative Writing is part of Jamii's March Cycle evolved around lead artist Sharon Zarita Adhiambo’s theme "Grounded", which includes workshops like Monday Dancing, Tuesday Culture Cloths, Tuesday Book Club, Wednesday Sewing, Thursday Crafting, Thursday Painting, and Friday Singing. “Through these workshops, we let art and community exchanges guide the discovery of what grounds us, or what we need to find grounding on, and pass this discovery to someone else's journey.” - Sharon Zarita Adhiambo. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Shaimaa Yakout, Hadeal Karrar Damilola Muyideen Olajire Damilola Muyideen Olajire, famously known as SmilingPen is a Professional Writer, a Spoken Word Artist, a Storyteller, a Community Project Expert, among many others. He is also the founder of Maryam Olayinka Olajire Foundation (MOOF), one of the fastest-growing public health organizations, back home in Nigeria, that advocates and promotes a good health care system for the common people of the community. Damilola hails from Lagos state (Nigeria) and had his formal education both in Nigeria and in Istanbul, Turkey. As a young immigrant in his 30’s, he has risen to become one of the most recognized African contemporary poets in Canada. Having performed at numerous art and poetry events, he is determined to continue speaking power from the heart, preaching love, hope and peace to the world using poetry. It’s also worth mention that Mr Olajire will be publishing his debut book soon. Damilola, or SmilingPen will fondly say, “I know my dreams are bigger than me, but they’re not impossible”. Photo by Grizzly Visualz

"Wind Stories" invited residents of 4 communities to create "portraits" of fellow community members. These portraits started with a one-on-one conversation and materialize through photography, visual arts and creative writing.  Wind Stories 2018 - 2019 - 2020 Toronto READ MORE Pikangikum Island READ MORE Wolfe Island READ MORE Wawa and Michipicoten Firts Nation READ MORE In September & October 2018, with the intent to build new bridges between 5 communities in Ontario through the arts and community engagement, the Jamii team visited Pikangikum First Nation, Wawa, Michicipoten First Nation and Wolfe Island. We visited each community with an open mind to allow organic conversations. Our intent was to listen and share our journey with local community arts organizations, meet people, artists and community activists and potentially create something wonderful together in a near future. Why these communities? Because three Esplanadians have strong ties in each of them: Darren Marshall is from Wawa, Asmita Pal taught in Pikangikum and Kerryn Graham lived with her family in Wolfe Island. All three are our ambassadors on this project and act as connectors between all our people to create genuine dialogue. Indigenous spoken word artist Mahlikah Awe:ri, Enml'ga't Saqama'sgw has been accompanying Isorine Marc, Executive and Artistic Director of Jamii, along with the ambassadors on each of the visits to these 4 communities. From this initial visit, Jamii invited each community to take part in an intra-provincial artistic collaboration between our 5 communities. Together, we would bring to life "Wind Stories". This project invites residents of each community to create "portraits" of fellow community members. These portraits start with a one-on-one conversation and materialize through photography, visual arts and creative writing. In November 2019, the Jamii team (composed of Isorine Marc, Darren Marshall, Georgia Reynolds, artist Kara Spencer and artist Dan Bergeron) traveled to Wawa to create the first 22 portraits of the project. The project was enthusiastically received by the community ending in a celebration on November 16th at the Lakeview Hotel with 60 people in attendance, sharing their portraits and experience through the project. In both November and December, the Jamii team (Isorine Marc, Kerryn Graham, Scarlett Graham, artist Kara Spencer and artist Andrew Patterson) traveled to Wolfe Island. More than 50 people have been involved in the project on the island with a beautiful series of portraits created. In February 2020, the project took place in Toronto where 22 Esplanadians created portraits of neighbours, friends, and family members. We completed the project with a get-together at Performing Arts Lodge, sharing the portraits with each other. The portraits were displayed at the Four Seasons Performing Arts Centre on February 13th and 15th 2020. The Jamii team (Isorine Marc, photographer Gillian Mapp, spoken word artist Mahlikah Awe:ri) visited Pikangikum from February 18 to 28 2020. 18 portraits were created by students of the Eenchokay Birchstick School and community members. We were warmly received and honored to spend time creating together. This project was supported by the Canada Council for the Arts, Ontario Arts Council, and Toronto Arts Council. The WInd Stories exhibit was first presented at the Canadian Opera Company in February 2020 to hundreds of youth and their parents. In the Summer and Fall of 2020, Wind Stories, was first presented in Toronto then in Wawa and next Wolfe Island. In Toronto, the exhibit was displayed in Crombie Park and St James Park, on June 29th, July 17th, July 18th, July 24th and 25th. In parallel to the exhibit, we invited 8 artists from Toronto to bring these portraits to life through the creation of a series of mini-performances inspired by some of the portraits. Here is a video of the live streaming of one of these performances: https://www.facebook.com/Jamii.ESP/videos/3101391096612028 We then reconnected with our contacts in Wawa and Wolfe Island and together decided to bring the exhibit to these communities in September. In each of these two communities, we invited 8 local artists to repeat the wonderful experience we had in Toronto by choosing a portrait and bringing it to life through dance, musical and visual performances. We had about 100 audience members in Wawa and 50 in Wolfe Island. These performances were also streamed online: Wawa: https://www.facebook.com/Jamii.ESP/videos/3348335508584251 Wolfe Island: https://www.facebook.com/Jamii.ESP/videos/3364122230338912

INDOOR ACTIVITIES / LAINI / LATIN AMERICAN CARNIVAL LAINI Youth After School A Jamii initiative to encourage girls and young women to explore art and leadership! LATIN AMERICAN CARNIVAL February to May 2025 - Grade 2 to 8 Led by Carolina Rojas, Aline Morales, Shelly Ann McLeod From February to May 2025, Jamii’s LAINI program brought the energy and spirit of Latin American carnivals to life through 16 weeks of arts-based workshops for girls in grades 2 to 8. Led by artists Aline Morales (percussion and singing), Carolina Rojas (dance), and Shelly Ann McLeod (costume-making), each workshop offered a hands-on space for creative expression, collaboration, and personal growth. Throughout the program, participants explored Afro-Latin American dances, created original choreography, learned the basics of percussion and songwriting, and designed and sewed their own colourful carnival-inspired costumes. The sessions were filled with laughter, movement, rhythm, and connection—offering a space where every girl could express herself freely while developing new skills. Inspired by the tradition of community carnival processions, the workshops encouraged teamwork and confidence-building while celebrating cultural heritage. The girls not only learned new artistic techniques, but also practiced leadership, focus, and the joy of working toward a shared goal. The program concluded with a heartwarming community performance at The Jamii Hub on Thursday, May 29, where the LAINI girls proudly took the stage to share what they had created. Families, friends, and neighbours gathered to cheer them on, filling the room with pride and joy. This low-cost, high-impact program was made possible with the support of Canada Council for the Arts, Toronto Arts Council, TD Ready Commitment, and funding through Rama Gaming House and the Charitable Gaming Community Good program. We are proud of each participant, volunteer, and artist who made this season so meaningful—and we can’t wait for what’s next. Photos by Iris Unlu, Isorine Marc, Carolina Rojas CAROLINA ROJAS From the age of 7, Carolina has charted an extraordinary journey through rhythmic gymnastics, ballet, music, and modern dance in esteemed arts schools, cultivating a deep passion for the arts. As a dancer, choreographer, and arts administrator, Carolina pursued a Dance Interpretation degree at Santiago de Chile's Las Americas University, dedicating four years to mastering contemporary dance. She became a dynamic force, participating in events like the "International Dance Day" celebrations from 2006 to 2008, leaving a mark on Chile's cultural landscape. In 2009, Carolina co-founded "Danza Independiente Antofagasta," helping to catalyze regional dance growth through festivals and training initiatives. Since 2017, Carolina has called Canada home, expanding her dance repertoire with samba do pe and contributing to the Dance Migration Company. She also volunteers with Chilean associations, sharing folklore and dance with youth, exemplifying her commitment to artistic excellence and community empowerment. ALINE MORALES: 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. SHELLY ANN MCLEOD: Born on the twin islands of Trinidad and Tobago, Shelly Ann began formal dance training at age 11 with Les Enfants Dance Company. She has traveled the Caribbean representing Trinidad and Tobago at various dance festivals. After expansive dance training, she then took her pedagogy to Seneca College, York University Campus as Dance and Movement Professor in August 2016, and Movement Professor at Toronto Film School in January 2018. She is now the Dance and movement Educator at Emery Collegiate Institute.

2011 - present International Arts Experience 2011 - present With dance/theatre company CORPUS With the support of individual donations from The Esplanade community, Maysam, Pauline and Kai were offered the amazing opportunity to travel to the other side of the planet with professional artists, attending international arts events (festivals, showcases, community performances, workshops...). The three youth joined the company on tour alongside Isorine Marc. These life-changing experiences were unique cultural and artistic opportunities to explore, learn and grow. Upon their return to The Esplanade, Maysam, Pauline and Kai shared their experiences with their families, classmates and the local community-at-large. A lot of gratitude to all the donors who brought these experiences to life. Kai - 2017 - South Africa Pauline - 2015 - China Maysam - 2011 - Cambodia

2014-2018 Community Projects/ Photo Exhibits/ RETROSPECTIVES RETROSPECTIVES 2014-2018 2014-2018 Basketball Tournaments Photo Exhibits Exhibited by the basketball court - David Crombie Park Between 2014 and 2018, Jamii organized a group of youth to capture the BasketBall Tournaments that were taking place at our local basletball court on David Crombie Park. Not only youths would learn photography skills, but would also curate their exhibit, which would then be displayed by the court the following year.

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 / A ROSE FOR WINTER - MARCH 2024 LEARNING Tuesday 7 pm Book Club A ROSE FOR WINTER March 2024 March 5, 2024 Facilitator: Judith Cohen Join our Monthly Book Club! In March, embark with us on a literary journey through the enchanting pages of 'A Rose for Winter' by Laurie Lee, a captivating memoir, where the author's eloquent prose transports us to post-Civil War Spain, unveiling the beauty of the landscapes, people, and customs. Immerse yourself in the discussions about post-war Spain's cultural nuances and savor the transformative period the author navigates. Whether you're a seasoned book club enthusiast or a newcomer, all are welcome to partake in this literary exploration. Share your insights, unravel the layers of this memoir, and connect with fellow readers who share a passion for storytelling. Reserve your spot and let the captivating journey begin! REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Ghader Bsmar, Jeeya Gandhi Judith Cohen Dr Judith Cohen is an ethnomusicologist, medievalist, singer, multi-instrumentalist and storyteller, who has travelled widely over the past half-century and plans to keep travelling. Both as an academic (Ph.D. ethnomusicology, MA Medieval Studies) and as a singer, she focuses on Sephardic music and related traditions of the Mediterranean and elsewhere, including songs in Judeo-Spanish, Spanish, Portuguese, Yiddish, Bulgarian, Croatian, medieval languages and more, accompanying herself on traditional percussion and string instruments. Judith teaches part-time at York University, and is also the editor/consultant for the Spain-1952 recordings and diaries of the legendary folklorist Alan Lomax. She integrates her research and travels into her singing and storytelling, in a warm, informal way, with spontaneous audience interaction. Instagram Photo Credit: Anonymous

EMERGING ARTISTS Jamii's RBC Emerging Artist Program SABRINE S. HAKAM, PHOTOGRAPHY & CURATION LEARNING EXPERIENCE WITH JAMII Since the start of 2023, I have successfully exhibited two portrait series with Jamii, one of which was created directly through my involvement with Jamii. The first exhibit (Power in Portraits) in January was an opportunity for me to introduce myself to the community ahead of the self-portrait workshop that I hosted from Feb-May 2023. The self-portrait workshops culminated in an exposition titled Calyx that was created by community participants with my artistic guidance. Over the summer, I also had the experience of mentoring a young Indigenous photographer, Morningstar Quill, who was working with Jamii at the same time. This experience was an important and critical interaction for me to have as a newcomer to Canada in order to engage with someone with a similar passion from a radically different community. Together, we brainstormed ideas, techniques and created a portrait series together. This year, I also got the chance to experience being the subject of a video interview which was a first for me. Through this experience, I had the chance to rehearse my introduction as an artist, which is a necessary skill to master in order to connect to an audience. In late summer/early fall of 2023, I launched an exhibit/talk series centered on the uniqueness and importance of cloths, fabrics and prints across different cultures through displays and community-engaged talks. Recently, I completed a talk series titled ‘The Jungle Book: A Postcolonial Analysis’, which explored the ways in which Rudyard Kipling's classic novel has been read through a postcolonial lens through a series of discussions and viewings of the many adaptations of The Jungle Book. Jamii also offered a unique opportunity to play the role of a mentor for another artist: During the summer of 2023, I had the opportunity to act as a mentor for Morningstar Quill, a young photographer from Pikangikum. Together, we discussed our techniques, subjects, and goals as photographers. During her time in Toronto, Morningstar and I worked on developing her ‘brand’ as a photographer by designing a logo for her social media profile and drafting an artistic resume. Despite a busy schedule, we managed to create a portrait series in which Morningstar had the chance to express anything she chose through my method. The results are my favourite collaboration yet as the series, featuring the two of us, is evocative of the profound connection we made with one another through our shared passion for photography and for our respective cultures. On a more personal level, I learned a lot from Morningstar about her community, her culture, and her inspiration. Having never been formally educated on the history of the Indigenous people of Canada, it was truly a learning experience for me to spend time with her and learn about the Canada that she comes from. All of these new activities and experiences have given me the opportunity to develop my own understanding of my role as an artist. It has given me the aptitude and opportunity to network with people from different backgrounds and to gain a better understanding of their artistic journey. Most importantly, it has integrated me into the community through my art and created opportunities for connection that I never had before. SEE PROJECT SEE ARTIST'S PAGE SABRINE S. HAKAM: Sabrine S. Hakam is a Toronto-based artist and thinker whose style of symbolism-infused portraits foster discussions on identity, representation, and power. Sabrine holds a PhD in Geography (Arts) from King’s College London, as well as an MSc in Urbanisation and Development from the London School of Economics, an MPhil in Development Studies from the University of Oxford, and a BSc from New York University. Her work situates itself at the nexus of academia and art in order to humanize the subjects of academic work. FUNDERS:

INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY CELEBRATIONS / 2022 INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY Jamii's Annual Celebrations 2022 - 4th Year! 4th Annual National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebrations June 21, 2022 at 4 pm David Crombie Park - The Esplanade & Princess St In honour of National Indigenous Peoples Day, Jamii hosted an array of Indigenous artists and mediums on The Esplanade. From live music, and traditional dance and music with EJ Kwandibens and his daughter Sagatay, to drumming with Sara Luey, Tracy Barker, and Maggie Asselstine, storytelling with Monique Diabo, photo exhibit unveiling and panel discussions, hosting by Jim Adams - our community was graced with stories of Indigenous resurgence, resistance and joy. We paid special respects to our relationships with water through our 2022 theme "Water is Memory" and invite the audience to reflect through discussions on water protection, water teachings, and water as life. The photo exhibit is showcased at The Esplanade & Princess Street until the early Fall of 2022. "The Red Chair Sessions"Photo Exhibition Jamii produced and unveiled a photo exhibition featuring Nadya Kwandibens' work as part of National Indigenous Peoples Day celebrations in David Crombie Park. This exhibition, presented from June to December 2022, is a selection of 8 portraits from the wider series called “The Red Chair Sessions”. Watch the video below to learn more about “The Red Chair Sessions” and how it showcases Indigenous Peoples inextricable relationships to the land, ancestral bloodlines and waterways through a striking series of portraits. Visit The Red Chair Sessions for more information about the photo exhibition! Credits Live at the Kisanii Hub Produced & Presented by Jamii Jamii Team: Isorine Marc, Iris Unlu, Afnan Yakot, Yusra Yacout, Nadifa Daud Mohamed, Maysam Ghani Host: Jim Adams "The Red Chair Sessions" Photo Exhibit: Nadya Kwandibens Live Performer: Red Rhythm & Blues (Aqua Wawaskone, Valentina Morelli, Alyssa Delbaere-Sawchuk) Drummer: Sara Luey, Tracy Barker, and Maggie Asselstine Dancer: Sagatay Kwandibens & EJ Kwandibens Storytelling: Monique Diabo Stage Manager: Julia Beaulieu Event Photographer: Ana Higuera Event Videographer: Recro Digital Marketing Photos by Ana Higuera

INDOOR ACTIVITIES / LAINI / MUSIC WORKSHOPS LAINI Youth Wednesday & Thursday After School A Jamii initiative to encourage girls and young women to explore art and leadership! MUSIC WORKSHOPS January to March 2024 - Grades 1 to 12 Led by Raha Javanfar Attention parents of girls with a passion for music! This electrifying musical expedition is designed exclusively for children from grades 1 to 12. Our series of free music workshops are set to unlock the secrets behind sound's evolution into captivating melodies and how music becomes a profound language for self-expression. By tinkering with an assortment of both DIY and existing musical instruments, your daughter will uncover the mysteries of melody, rhythm, and dynamics while mastering the art of collaborative band play through the essential skill of active listening. Beyond just mastering musical techniques, these workshops aim to cultivate leadership, teamwork, and attentive listening skills. The grand finale will showcase a performance where the young maestros will unveil their collaborative musical masterpieces to their families. We recommend participants bring a water bottle, any instruments they might have (though not mandatory), and, of course, an insatiable curiosity! Join us as we embark on this exhilarating musical journey where imagination and creativity take centre stage! Raha is a musician, performer, theatre designer, and educator. She has worked as lighting/projections designer, writer, director, music director, and performer for many prestigious companies including Tafelmusik, Soulpepper, Canadian Stage, Crows Theatre, and Opera Atelier, amongst others. Raha is currently a Slaight Music Associate at Soulpepper Theatre for which she was the Creator and Music Director of Sympathy for the Devil. She was one of six co-creators of Now You See Her, an anti-patriarchy, Dora nominated play by Quote Unquote Collective, produced by Nightwood Theatre, in which she also performed the role of Daria. She co-wrote and co-directed Kensington: The Musical, along with Beau Dixon, for the students of Sheridan College. The Shape of Home, a musical song cycle co-created and co-music directed by her, Beau Dixon, Hailey Gillis, Frank Cox-O’Connell, Andrew Penner, and Marni Jackson won a Dora award for Best Musical Direction. Photo by Zahra Saleki