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  • BASKETBALL COURT MURAL

    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

  • Singing | Jamii Esplanade

    The Jamii Hub on The Esplanade is home to singing workshops throughout the year! Experience the dynamics of group singing in a welcoming atmosphere. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / Singing SINGING Cycles Workshops Jamii’s Singing workshops invite participants to explore voice, sound, and shared expression in a welcoming, community-centred setting. Each month features a guided singing series led by a professional artist, drawing from different musical traditions, styles, and cultural practices. Singing workshops may include group singing, vocal warm-ups, rhythm and breath work, listening, and creative exploration. Sessions are designed to be accessible and low-pressure, welcoming people of all experience levels, including those who may not see themselves as singers. Participants can choose to attend all sessions in a month to build confidence and connection over time, or register for a single session to experience the workshop. Registration is required for each individual session, and spaces are limited. Registration opens on the 10th of the previous month at 12:00 AM. AGE GROUP | All Ages - Children under 12 are welcome when accompanied by an adult $15/SESSION | REGISTRATION REQUIRED | NO PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE NEEDED REGISTER NOW November 2026 SONGS THAT FEEL LIKE HOME November 2 - 9 - 16 - 23 - 30, 2026 Facilitator: Maryem Hassan Tollar MORE INFO May 2025 JI GOE AND JAPANESE FOLK SONGS Facilitator: Aki Takahashi MORE INFO November 2024 RETURN Facilitator: Natalie Fasheh MORE INFO September 2026 IMPULSE: SINGING, RHYTHM, AND PLAY September 8 - 14 - 21 - 28, 2026 Facilitator: Natalie Fasheh MORE INFO April 2025 VOICES OF ANDES Facilitator: Jaime Stears MORE INFO October 2024 EXPLORING SINGING AND DEEP REFLECTION Facilitator: Victoria Sawal MORE INFO May 2026 SAKURA: SPRING SONG May 4 - 11 - 19 - 25, 2026 Facilitator: Aki Takahashi MORE INFO March 2025 TRADITIONAL CELEBRATION SONGS FROM SOUTHERN AFRICA Facilitator: Brian S. Moyo MORE INFO September 2024 CARNATIC SINGING Facilitator: Ganesh Iyer MORE INFO February 2026 SINGING YOUR HEART OUT February 2 - 9 - 17 - 23, 2026 Facilitator: Martin Gomes MORE INFO February 2025 THE MUSICAL TRADITION OF SPIRITUALS Facilitator: Martin Gomes MORE INFO June 2024 EXPLORING MELODIES AND CREATING A COMMUNAL SONG Facilitator: Paula Sofía Morales, Nickeshia Garrick MORE INFO Calendar UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Mon, Nov 02 November Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 02, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing songs from across the Middle East in a five-week vocal workshop with Maryem Hassan Tollar. +3 more Mon, Nov 09 November Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 09, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing songs from across the Middle East in a five-week vocal workshop with Maryem Hassan Tollar. See All Mon, Nov 16 November Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 16, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing songs from across the Middle East in a five-week vocal workshop with Maryem Hassan Tollar. See All Mon, Nov 23 November Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 23, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing songs from across the Middle East in a five-week vocal workshop with Maryem Hassan Tollar. See All Mon, Nov 30 November Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 30, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing songs from across the Middle East in a five-week vocal workshop with Maryem Hassan Tollar. See All

  • Movement | Jamii Esplanade

    The Jamii Hub on The Esplanade is home to movement workshops for older adults on Tuesdays. Register now to join! MOVEMENT INDOOR ACTIVITIES / BELONGING - OLDER ADULTS / BELONGING Movement Workshops For Older Adults WHEN | Tuesdays from 10am to 11:30am WHERE | The Jamii Hub @ 264 The Esplanade AGE GROUP | 55+ FREE ADMISSION | REGISTRATION REQUIRED | NO PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE NEEDED Our Movement workshops series is a safe and inclusive space for older adults with all levels of mobility to engage in collective physical exercises tailored towards their needs with a focus on fun and joy. This weekly workshops series goes beyond the average gym class. They are led by professional dancers who bring their diverse cultural backgrounds and artistic visions into their choreographed dance moves. Each week, participants learn new moves and steps, work on their mind and body coordination, and practice a collective fun routine. The Movement workshop has become a weekly rendez-vous for our older Esplanadians who look forward to exercising alongside their friends in the community every Tuesday. Workshops are free. The program is supported by the Government of Canada, New Horizons for Seniors Program, as well as the Canada Council for the Arts. Join our Movement workshops on Tuesdays at The Jamii Hub! Support free community arts Jamii keeps workshops free so everyone can take part, without financial barriers. If you’re able, you can support our $15 for 15 Years campaign and help us reach $15,000 by December 15 for Jamii’s future programs at The Jamii Hub. Your donation moves the goal forward and is eligible for a charitable tax receipt. Donate here now. REGISTER NOW NOVEMBER 2026 DISCO & MOTOWN DANCE Facilitator: Nicola Pantin LEARN MORE JULY 2026 SOCA DANCE Facilitator: Michael Mortley LEARN MORE OCTOBER 2026 PILATES AND YOGA Facilitator: Nickeshia Garrick LEARN MORE MAY & JUNE 2026 LATIN DANCE Facilitator: Carolina Rojas LEARN MORE SEPTEMBER 2026 AFRO-BRAZILIAN DANCE Facilitator: Newton Moraes LEARN MORE MARCH & APRIL 2026 PILATES AND YOGA Facilitator: Nickeshia Garrick LEARN MORE AUGUST 2026 YOGA-BASED MOVEMENT & AFRO-BRAZILIAN DANCE Facilitators: Nickeshia Garrick & Newton Moraes LEARN MORE JANUARY & FEBRUARY 2026 AFRO-BRAZILIAN DANCE Facilitator: Newton Moraes LEARN MORE Calendar UPCOMING DATES Tue, Oct 20 Belonging Older Adults - Movement / The Jamii Hub LEARN MORE Oct 20, 2026, 10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Stretch, strengthen, and move with Nickeshia Garrick in accessible Pilates and yoga-based workshops for older adults. Tue, Oct 27 Belonging Older Adults - Movement / The Jamii Hub LEARN MORE Oct 27, 2026, 10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Stretch, strengthen, and move with Nickeshia Garrick in accessible Pilates and yoga-based workshops for older adults. Tue, Nov 03 Belonging Older Adults - Movement / The Jamii Hub LEARN MORE Nov 03, 2026, 10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move to disco and Motown favourites with Nicola Pantin in accessible dance workshops for older adults at The Jamii Hub. Load More

  • Baraza - Kenya | Jamii Esplanade

    Explore Jamii’s Baraza Kenya project, connecting artists from The Esplanade and Nairobi through community arts, storytelling, and exchange. Baraza Intentional Conversations between Toronto & Kenya “Baraza” is a Swahili word that means “a meeting of people who come together to share ideas with intent and purpose.” Imagine a street corner, an issue to be discussed, a few chairs—some occupied with people already busy exchanging ideas, while other chairs remain free, waiting to welcome more people into the circle—people who would join in the conversation to contribute their own perspective to the issue. A Baraza happens with intention and purpose but also spontaneously, in-situ, impromptu serendipity, and relevance to the “now.” Our project, our Baraza, creates an intentional conversation between artists from our community in downtown Toronto, The Esplanade, and Nairobi, in Kenya, to explore the building of bridges between our two communities, where people and stories are the heart of the connection. The exploration unfolds through artistic encounters, intentional discussions, story sharing, and the exchange of multiple community-engaged arts practices. Founder and Alchemist Isorine Marc has invited artists Takako Segawa (dancer and choreographer), Aline Morales (singer and musician), and Yasmine Omar (emerging photographer) to join her on a two-week journey to Nairobi to be a part of these conversations. In 2024, Jamii will also invite three artists from Kenya to come to our community, The Esplanade, thus nurturing a two-way relationship and intentionally weaving our multiple stories together to offer a stronger, more in-depth narrative. Together, this group forms our Baraza. In both places, our Baraza will also connect with local artists, arts institutions, schools, libraries, community members, and community leaders, inviting them to embark on a journey of sharing. These conversations will take place in the form of one-on-one encounters, talking circles, workshops, informal presentations, impromptu site-specific happenings, community arts activities—all under the umbrella of the Baraza concept. The Baraza was devised by Isorine Marc, with Sharon Adhiembo, and is in partnership with Sekoya East Africa. We are grateful for the support of the Canada Council for the Arts, which believes deeply in the Baraza and has made a dream come true. CHECK OUT OUR BARAZA BLOG Yasmine Omar embraced her roots in Kenya Jan 15, 2024 "Traveling to Kenya was a dream": Aline Morales Jan 11, 2024 Takako Segawa reflects on Kenya Jan 11, 2024 Workshops with Youth at Rubiri School Dec 6, 2023 At Rubiri School Dec 6, 2023 Meeting with Douglas Smoki Kihiko & Adrian Jankowiak Dec 6, 2023 Jamii's Baraza Night: An Impromptu Performance Nov 21, 2023 Meeting with Dr. Zippy Okoth & Visiting Nairobi National Park Nov 21, 2023 Meeting with Fedari Oyagi & Marshall Timm Macharia Nov 21, 2023 Meeting with Maulid Owino & Liboi Nov 20, 2023 Journey continues at the Alliance Française & The Crony Production in Nairobi! Nov 14, 2023 Jamii's Baraza: Connecting Communities through Intentional Conversations and Artistic Encounters Nov 13, 2023

  • Murals | Jamii Esplanade

    With our murals, our intent is to transform our public space to surprise passers-by, to engage in conversation through arts and to share different perspectives, as well as beautify our community. COMMUNITY PROJECTS / MURALS MURALS Colouring our community Our intent is to transform our public space to surprise passers-by, to engage in conversation through arts and to share different perspectives, and last but not least, to beautify our community. Jamii's murals are both artists' commissions and community creations. Jamii has produced some remarkable murals which are now landmarks in our community and in our city. ACROSS DIMENSIONS July 2025 CHECK OUT JUST IMAGINE September 2023 CHECK OUT PROTECTOR July 2024 CHECK OUT MASHKIKI June 2023 CHECK OUT BASKETBALL COURT MURAL Spring 2014 CHECK OUT THE AQUATIC GATHERING July 2023 CHECK OUT

  • Moms' Care Circle | Jamii Esplanade

    The Jamii Hub on The Esplanade, Toronto is a safe space to moms every first Saturday of each month! Take a moment out of your busy daily lives and multitude of responsibilities to focus on yourself alone. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / Moms' Care Circle MOMS' CARE CIRCLE Saturday 1 pm A Safe Space for Moms WHEN | Every first Saturday of each month - Check the dates below for each month's sessions WHERE | The Jamii Hub @ 264 The Esplanade AGE GROUP | All Ages FREE ADMISSION | REGISTRATION REQUIRED IF CHILDCARE IS NEEDED | NO PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE NEEDED Moms' Care Circle was created is response to the demands of the mothers in the community and the shortcomings of the modern urban life in supporting moms' needs. Using expressive forms of art, Jamii creates a safe space for moms to take a moment out of their busy daily lives and multitude of responsibilities to focus on themselves alone. In Moms' Care Circle, mothers reconnect with themselves, reflect on their evolving identities, and bond with fellow moms walking down the same journey with all its beautiful moments and milestones, joyous highs, and trying lows. Each monthly session, an artist guides participants through a transformative art experience, breaks the ice, and facilitates the flow of meaningful conversations drawing from their own experience of motherhood. Moms leave the session feeling refreshed, renewed, energized, and inspired by the common threads in their individual journeys of motherhood and love. For the duration of workshops, a team of certified caretakers provide moms with free off-site childcare for children 2 years old and above at St. Lawrence Community Recreation Center, David Crombie Park, and St. Lawrence Toronto Public Library. March 2024 Creative Writing Workshop Lead: Natalya March 2, 2024 MORE INFO April 2024 Expressive Art Workshop Lead: Alejandra Higuera April 6, 2024 MORE INFO May 2024 Expressive Art Workshop Lead: Alejandra Higuera May 4, 2024 MORE INFO June 2024 Paper Blocks Workshop Lead: Kseniya Tsoy June 1, 2024 MORE INFO Calendar No events at the moment UPCOMING DATES

  • Crafting Nights | Jamii Esplanade

    The Jamii Hub in The Esplanade, Toronto is home to creativity on Thursdays! From painting nights to diverse crafts, explore artistry monthly or occasionally! Crafting Nights INDOOR ACTIVITIES / THURSDAY CREATING / CREATING Thursday 7 pm Crafting Nights WHEN | Second and Third Tuesday of each C ycle from 7pm to 8:30pm (Check upcoming dates below) WHERE | The Jamii Hub @ 264 The Esplanade AGE GROUP | All Ages - Children under 12 are welcome when accompanied by an adult FREE ADMISSION | REGISTRATION REQUIRED | NO PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE NEEDED As part of Jamii's Thursday Create workshop series, we craft at Crafting Nights! A bi-monthly gathering for all craft enthusiasts! Check below what we have in store for the coming months! Whether you're a crafting veteran or novice at crafting, everyone is invited. Each crafting night introduces a new and exciting project, fostering an atmosphere of learning and camaraderie. Join us twice a month and embrace the joy of crafting and connect with fellow enthusiasts in our welcoming community! REGISTRATION IS CLOSED May 2025 SILHOUTTE PUPPETS AND STORYTELLING May 15 - 22, 2025 Facilitator: Kristine White MORE INFO & REGISTER November 2024 POTTERY AND TATREEZ November 14 - 21, 2024 Facilitator: Nadia Shammas, Paz Jurado MORE INFO & REGISTER May 2024 MIZUHIKI ART May 16 - 23, 2024 Facilitator: Ayami Terasawa MORE INFO & REGISTER April 2025 WINE GLASS PAINTING AND POLYMER CLAY CREATION April 17 - 24, 2025 Facilitators: Ximena Montecino, Josefina Vera Toro MORE INFO & REGISTER October 2024 (RE)WEAVING October 17 - 24, 2024 Facilitator: Norwin Anne MORE INFO & REGISTER April 2024 AFROCENTRIC SELF-CARE April 18 - 25, 2024 Facilitator: Muna Elbadri MORE INFO & REGISTER March 2025 WOOL AND CROCHET March 13 - 20, 2025 Facilitator: Seema Anwar, Abi Akinlade & Nyokabi Muchuku MORE INFO & REGISTER September 2024 BEADING AND CROCHET September 19 - 26, 2024 Facilitator: Justine Woods, Rachana Joshi MORE INFO & REGISTER March 2024 TALEVERA TILES March 14 - 21, 2024 Facilitator: Alejandra Higuera MORE INFO & REGISTER February 2025 LINE DRAWING AND CARD MAKING February 13 - 20, 2025 Facilitator: Vicky Wang and Danika Lorèn MORE INFO & REGISTER June 2024 CO-CREATING COMMUNAL ARTWORKS June 13 - 20, 2024 Facilitator: Michael Mortley MORE INFO & REGISTER February 2024 PUNCH NEEDLE February 8 - 22, 2024 Facilitator: Alejandra Higuera MORE INFO & REGISTER Calendar Pay it Forward! At Jamii, it is important that all programs are free so that everyone can participate without facing financial barriers. To operate, Jamii relies on funding from government, foundations, corporations, and individual donations. Thank you for considering making a donation in whatever amount is meaningful to you and paying it forward for the next person. Frequency One time One time Monthly Monthly Yearly Yearly Amount $25 $25 $50 $50 $100 $100 $250 $250 $500 $500 Other Other 0/1000 Comment (optional) Donate $25 Monthly Wed, Nov 04 November Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 04, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Explore linocut printing and collaborative storytelling in a four-week visual arts workshop with Jieun Kim. +3 more Wed, Nov 11 November Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 11, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Explore linocut printing and collaborative storytelling in a four-week visual arts workshop with Jieun Kim. See All Wed, Nov 18 November Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 18, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Explore linocut printing and collaborative storytelling in a four-week visual arts workshop with Jieun Kim. See All Wed, Nov 25 November Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 25, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Explore linocut printing and collaborative storytelling in a four-week visual arts workshop with Jieun Kim. See All UPCOMING DATES

  • CORDEL LITERATURE

    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 / CORDEL LITERATURE - FEBRUARY 2024 LEARNING Tuesday 7 pm Book Club CORDEL LITERATURE February 2024 February 6, 2024 Facilitator: Eshe Mercer-James Embark on a literary exploration of Cordel literature with us—an intricate blend of oral and written traditions from 19th-century northeastern Brazil. Discover how this dynamic form supports and empowers marginalized folk cultures of the region. Cordel spread through the nation as these groups searched for economic opportunities in the big cities, and is now both an officially recognized Brazilian cultural heritage product and a developing genre in contemporary Brazilian culture. We'll delve into the works of Salete Maria, a Cordelista, Feminista e Libertária, challenging traditional norms in this historically male-dominated endeavor. Join us for a concise yet captivating evening at the intersection of cultural heritage and contemporary expression. You don’t have to know Portuguese to enjoy this session. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Isorine Marc Eshe Mercer-James Eshe Mercer-James has taught literature courses at both York and Trent Universities, and also works with the Canadian Language Museum. Her PhD dissertation, Framing Standard and Dialect in Black Women’s Novels (2021), was nominated for the Mary McEwan Memorial Award, a prize for feminist scholarship. She also has a longstanding interest in Brazilian culture, and spent a month in the northeast part of the country to experience the Festa de São João festival (also known as Festa Junina). She is excited to experience some of that energy in Toronto. Photo Credit: Unknown

  • WRITING FROM THE HEART

    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

  • 6TH ANNUAL CELEBRATING CULTURES | Jamii Esplanade

    MULTICULTURAL DAY CELEBRATIONS / 2024 MULTICULTURAL DAY Jamii's Annual Celebrations 2024 - 6th Year! June 27 at 6 pm David Crombie Park | The Esplanade & Princess St The evening featured a grand community potluck organized by Jamii and community partners. The event marked the first "Esplanade Cultural Potluck," hoped to become an annual tradition, with a vibrant array of dishes brought by community members. To complement the picnic, attendees enjoyed live music by Kuné, Canada’s global orchestra. Conceived by the Royal Conservatory of Music and Mervon Mehta, Kuné celebrated cultural diversity with eleven musicians from around the world, each playing unique instruments to create a distinctly global sound. Their music was joyful and uplifting! The celebrations included a market featuring local artisans displaying their work: Amberlee King’s paintings, Ana Figo’s earrings, Ayami Terasawa’s Mizuhiki craft, Steve Cornelsen’s cutlery, Carmen Chan’s jewelry, May Yu’s postcards, Mariana Hernandez’s paintings, Eleshia Thomas’s cards and jewelry, AfroMousse’s Afro-print goods, and Liselle Yorke’s ceramic and woodwork. For families, face painter Linda Epp and henna artist Noshin Hussain were on hand to add a creative touch. The St. Lawrence Market provided a barbecue feast, and St. Lawrence Daycare Co-Op offered crafts for young attendees. Canadian Stage was also present, giving attendees a chance to win tickets to their 2024 season. A lot happened on June 27th in David Crombie Park and the crowd showed up in big numbers! This vibrant and joyful celebration brought the community together to embrace its cultural diversity, making it a beautiful event for all who attended. Photos by Jae Yang

  • JAMII BAZAAR | Jamii Esplanade

    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

  • FORRÓ

    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.

  • Tamar Ilana

    < Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Tamar Ilana Flamenco Dancer & Singer Tamar Ilana is a Toronto-born multifaceted artist who grew up on stage singing in multiple languages, touring internationally and dancing flamenco since a very young age. Of Jewish-Indigenous-Romanian-Scottish descent, Tamar sings in 20 languages and is most influenced by the Sephardic and Flamenco traditions. Tamar’s music and fierce talent reflect her personal and cultural history growing up in multicultural Toronto; accompanying her ethnomusicologist mother, Dr. Judith Cohen, on village fieldwork expeditions and on stage as a child; and living in Ibiza, Barcelona, Paris and Seville as a teen and young adult. Drawing on these experiences, Tamar founded her world music project, Ventanas, in 2011 with whom she has released three albums and been nominated for four Canadian Folk Music Awards including Best Traditional Singer. Tamar has collaborated with such renowned artists as Anna Colóm, Jesse Cook, Briga, Eliana Cuevas, Lenka Lichtenberg, Jaffa Road, Sultans of String, the Lemon Bucket Orkestra, and Ahmed Moneka. A highly sought-after flamenco dancer and singer, Tamar performs with the Esmeralda Enrique Spanish Dance Company, and at the Academy of Spanish Dance. Tamar has also been featured in award-winning, innovative international musicals in New York, San Francisco, Washington DC, the UK and Germany. In 2020, Tamar co-founded the presenting arts organization FabCollab, and has since presented over 100 BIPOC women and minority artists at venues such as Koerner Hall and the Aga Khan Museum. website << BACK TO ARTISTS

  • FOUND

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

  • SILK PAINTING: COLOUR, LINE, AND FLOW

    A free visual arts workshop in Toronto led by Janice Garel. Learn silk painting techniques and create a mounted artwork. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / VISUAL ARTS / SILK PAINTING: COLOUR, LINE, AND FLOW VISUAL ARTS Cycles Workshops SILK PAINTING: COLOUR, LINE, AND FLOW March 2026 Wednesday, March 4, 11, 18, and 25 from 7 PM to 9 PM Facilitator: Janice Garel This visual arts workshop series is part of Jamii’s March Cycle and reflects the 2026 theme, It Feels Right . Led by artist Janice Garel, the workshops centre around silk painting as a practice of focus, patience, and expression through colour and line. Participants learn a traditional silk painting approach using the French Serti method, beginning with designing on paper before transferring imagery onto silk. Using black, silver, and gold gutta resist, participants define their compositions before applying richly coloured silk dyes. The process allows colour to move naturally within each outlined form, creating a finished piece that reflects both intention and spontaneity. Each participant completes a 12” x 15” silk painting mounted on foam core, suitable for framing or tabletop display. All materials are provided by Jamii, removing barriers and allowing participants to focus fully on the creative process. These workshops are open to participants of all experience levels. No prior painting or silk work experience is needed. Participants are encouraged to engage at their own pace and in a way that feels comfortable and supportive. Workshops are free for participants. Registration is required, and space is limited. Support free community arts Jamii keeps workshops free so everyone can take part, without financial barriers. If you’re able, you can support our $15 for 15 Years campaign and help us reach $15,000 by December 15 for Jamii’s future programs at The Jamii Hub. Your donation moves the goal forward and is eligible for a charitable tax receipt. Donate here now. Jamii’s Cycle Programs are sponsored by Canada Council for the Arts, Toronto Arts Council, TD Ready Commitment, Metcalf Foundation, Rama Gaming House, and Charitable Gaming. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Cycle Workshops Reminders 🔔 Want a heads-up? Sign up to receive a monthly email reminder when Cycle workshop registrations open. First name* Last name* Email* REMIND ME Photos by Afnan Yakot Photo Credit: Unknown JANICE GAREL Janice Garel is a visual artist with formal training from the Edna Manley College of the Visual and Performing Arts in Jamaica and the Ontario College of Art and Design in Toronto. Her practice spans over two decades, with a focus on silk and oil painting. Janice has exhibited her work locally and internationally, received the Markham Mayor’s Award for Community Service, and completed mural and banner commissions for schools across the York Region. Through her long-running Art Adventure Studio, she has taught art to children and adults, and she has been a returning facilitator with Jamii through the Belonging Older Adults programs. UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Wed, Nov 04 November Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 04, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Explore linocut printing and collaborative storytelling in a four-week visual arts workshop with Jieun Kim. +3 more Wed, Nov 11 November Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 11, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Explore linocut printing and collaborative storytelling in a four-week visual arts workshop with Jieun Kim. See All Wed, Nov 18 November Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 18, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Explore linocut printing and collaborative storytelling in a four-week visual arts workshop with Jieun Kim. See All Wed, Nov 25 November Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 25, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Explore linocut printing and collaborative storytelling in a four-week visual arts workshop with Jieun Kim. See All

  • VISIT

    VISIT BARAZA / BARAZA PIKANGIKUM / BARAZA Pikangikum First Nation First and Second Jamii visits to Pikangikum 2018 - 2019 VISIT Jamii first visited Pikangikum First Nation in September 2018. We were extremely grateful, humbled, and honoured for this opportunity, thanks to Asmita Pal connection to this community. We were warmly received by a community that not only opened their doors, but also their many stories to us. We met with Elder Amie Owen, who shared a meal of moose meat and bannock with us, and told us about his experiences in residential school; David, who kept an eye on us in the hotel; Lucie Strang, who shared both her experience as a Native Language teacher in both oral Ojibwe and slavics, over multiple generations in the community, as well as her gift as a star quilt maker. We also met with Shirley Keesic, who is leading Restorative Justice Circles throughout Northern Ontario communities; Walter Latt and Marvin McKay-Keenan, who are managing the impressive new school, Eenchokay Birchstick School; Daniel Keeper, the Assistant Director of Education for the Pikangikum Education Authority; gifted visual artist Mario Peters, who showed us his studio and shared his artistic process and the teachings within his work; Ryan Saunders, who works at Project Journey and facilitates outdoor education engagement and employment opportunities for local youth; Andrew Mattacchione, whose hospitality helped us feel at home; Anne Warner, who treated us to breakfast during the power outage; Last but not least, we met with Elder Matthew Strang, who was ready to share with the creation stories connected to the water, land and people of Pikangikum. Little did we knew that we would reconnect with Matthew in 2022! In a short week, we had a taste of life in Pikangikum with a busy orientation week for the 200+ teachers before the first day for students, a 2-day fishing derby, a power outage, a fiddler and country rock concert hosted at the Community Centre, a 2-day water outage, visits to the community centre, the nursing station, the school, the Northern, a walk around the lagoon, and many, many meals at the one and only restaurant in town.While the reserve faced many challenges, we were grateful to those who openly shared their heartfelt, sincere experiences living and/or working in Pikangikum. In December 2019, Jamii visited Pikangikum a second time. Our intent was to confirm with Pikamgikum, leadership the coordination of "Wind Storiees". Both Jamii's Director Isorine Marc and Indigenous Spoken Word Artist Mahlikah Awe:ri were on this trip and met with several community members to discuss how to bring this project to life in February 2020. The intent of the proposed project was to create bridges between 4 communities in Ontario by sharing our stories together. People participating in the project were invited to make a portrait of someone else in their community through creative writing, photography and visual arts. SUPPORTED BY INDOOR ACTIVITIES / THURSDAY CREATING / CRAFTING NIGHTS / Photos by Isorine Marc

  • Super(s)heroes Drawing Workshops | Jamii Esplanade

    < Back Super(s)heroes Drawing Workshops Local artist Chris Henderson facilitated a series of workshops to instill into our youths the pleasure of drawing and to boost their self-confidence as they dreamt about who they would be as a super(s)heroe. 2021 - DECEMBER In partnership with St Lawrence Community Recreation Centre 2021 - December Local artist Chris Henderson facilitated a series of workshops to instill into our youths the pleasure of drawing and to boost their self-confidence as they dreamt about who they would be as a super(s)heroe. To register, click below: http://closed

  • Visual Arts | Jamii Esplanade

    The Jamii Hub in The Esplanade, Toronto is home to creativity throughout the year! From painting nights to diverse crafts, explore artistry! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / Visual Arts VISUAL ARTS Cycles Workshops Jamii’s Visual Arts workshops invite participants to explore different creative practices in a supportive, hands-on environment. Each series is led by an artist who guides the group through making, experimenting, and learning together, using accessible approaches that welcome all experience levels. Workshops change throughout the year and may include painting, printmaking, mixed media, drawing, and other visual art forms. All materials are provided by Jamii, allowing participants to focus fully on the creative process. These workshops are designed as shared experiences where curiosity, care, and creative confidence can grow over time. Registration is required for each workshop series, and spaces are limited. Registration opens on the 10th of the previous month at 12:00 AM. AGE GROUP | All Ages - Children under 12 are welcome when accompanied by an adult $20/SESSION | REGISTRATION REQUIRED | NO PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE NEEDED REGISTER NOW November 2026 PRINT, STORY, TOGETHER Wednesday, November 4, 11, 18, and 25 from 7 PM to 9 PM Facilitator: Jieun Kim MORE INFO May 2025 CHARCOAL AND HARD PASTEL DRAWING May 8, 2025 from 7 PM to 9 PM Facilitator: Erica Whyte MORE INFO November 2024 ANCESTRAL VISIONS November 7, 2024 from 7 PM to 9 PM Facilitator: Ibrahim Abusitta MORE INFO September 2026 PAINTING ACROSS IDENTITY AND FORM Wednesday, September 2, 9, 16, 23, and 30 from 7 PM to 9 PM Facilitator: Andrew Patterson MORE INFO April 2025 EXPLORING THE CHAKANA April 10, 2025 from 7 PM to 9 PM Facilitator: Andre Mandela Lopez MORE INFO October 2024 TEKA LANG October 10, 2024 from 7 PM to 9 PM Facilitator: Ephraim Velasco MORE INFO May 2026 DRAWING WHAT FEELS RIGHT Wednesday, May 6, 13, 20, and 27 from 7 PM to 9 PM Facilitator: Alison Garwood-Jones MORE INFO March 2025 PAINTING GROUNDING AND RENEWAL March 6, 2025 from 7 PM to 9 PM Facilitator: Seema Anwar MORE INFO September 2024 EXPLORING KAPWA September 12, 2024 from 7 PM to 9 PM Facilitator: Blessyl Buan MORE INFO March 2026 SILK PAINTING: COLOUR, LINE, AND FLOW Wednesday, March 4, 11, 18, and 25 from 7 PM to 9 PM Facilitator: Janice Garel MORE INFO February 2025 PAINTING PERSPECTIVES February 6, 2024 from 7 PM to 9 PM Facilitator: Curtia Wright MORE INFO June 2024 ACRYLIC PAINT AND SAND June 6, 2024 from 7 PM to 9 PM Facilitator: Julian Periquet MORE INFO Calendar UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Wed, Nov 04 November Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 04, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Explore linocut printing and collaborative storytelling in a four-week visual arts workshop with Jieun Kim. +3 more Wed, Nov 11 November Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 11, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Explore linocut printing and collaborative storytelling in a four-week visual arts workshop with Jieun Kim. See All Wed, Nov 18 November Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 18, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Explore linocut printing and collaborative storytelling in a four-week visual arts workshop with Jieun Kim. See All Wed, Nov 25 November Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 25, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Explore linocut printing and collaborative storytelling in a four-week visual arts workshop with Jieun Kim. See All

  • Lua Shayenne Dance

    2020/08 < Back to Events Lua Shayenne Dance CREDITS: WITH THE SUPPORT OF:

  • Outings | Jamii Esplanade

    Monthly free arts outings for older adults in downtown Toronto. Visit theatres, museums, and galleries together with Jamii. Register for Belonging to take part. Outings INDOOR ACTIVITIES / BELONGING / BELONGING Outings AGE GROUP | 55+ FREE ADMISSION Belonging Outings are a monthly way for older adults to spend time together outside The Jamii Hub, with art as the shared reason to go. For some people, it’s a chance to return to places they used to love. For others, it’s the first time they’ve gone to a theatre, gallery, or museum in years. Either way, it’s easier to show up when you’re not doing it alone. These outings are built around simple things that matter: meeting up, recognizing familiar faces, and having time to talk while you walk. The art experience is part of it, but so is the moment before, when everyone gathers at the Hub, and the moment after, when people share what they noticed, what surprised them, or what a piece brought back for them. There’s no pressure to “know” anything. You can be quiet, you can ask questions, you can laugh, and you can take it in at your own pace. Each month, we visit a different venue across Toronto and GTA. Outings can include outdoor theatre, live performances, museums, and galleries. Past visits have included Canadian Stage, McMichael Art Gallery, Aga Khan Museum, Market Gallery, Canadian Canoe Museum and more. The location changes, but the feeling stays consistent: a welcoming group and a chance to spend the afternoon in good company. What to expect Meet at The Jamii Hub first. We’ll gather as a group before heading out. Travel together. Transportation or a group walk to the venue will be arranged. A relaxed pace. These outings are meant to feel comfortable and manageable. Time for connection. Many outings include time to chat and reflect before or after the visit. Please note: To be eligible for outings, you must be registered for Belonging Movement, Visual Arts, or Sing-Along workshops. Our Program Coordinator will email registered participants once a month with details about the upcoming outing and how to take part. Jamii’s Belonging Outings are sponsored by Government of Canada, New Horizons for Seniors Program, and Canada Council for the Arts. Support free community arts Jamii keeps workshops free so everyone can take part, without financial barriers. If you’re able, you can support our $15 for 15 Years campaign and help us reach $15,000 by December 15 for Jamii’s future programs at The Jamii Hub. Your donation moves the goal forward and is eligible for a charitable tax receipt. Donate here now. Calendar No events at the moment UPCOMING DATES

  • Blacksmithing

    The Jamii Hub turns into a niche artistic sanctuary once a month on Tuesdays! In May, join us to step into the world of blacksmithing with our workshop led by craftsman Steve Cornelson. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / TUESDAY LEARNING / NICHE ARTISTIC PRACTICES / BLACKSMITHING - MAY 2024 LEARNING Tuesday 7 pm Niche Artistic Practices Blacksmithing May 2024 May 7, 2024 Workshop Lead: Steve Cornelson Step into the world of blacksmithing with our workshop led by craftsman Steve Cornelson. You will discover the artistry of crafting custom cutlery in this hands-on experience. Throughout the workshop, you will immerse yourself in the ancient craft of forging, guided by Steve's expertise. Using a makeshift anvil and innovative techniques with frozen clay, you will learn the essential skills needed to shape metal into beautiful and functional pieces. You will gain valuable insights into the fundamentals of metallurgy, understanding the science behind the transformation of steel during the hardening process. This workshop offers a unique opportunity to expand your skills and knowledge under the guidance of a true artisan! REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Iris Unlu Steve Cornelson Steve is a teacher turned blacksmith. After a decade teaching abroad, Steve returned home and decided to divert his focous to his passion of blacksmithing. He now spends most of his time crafting custom cutlery heavily inspired by Japanese cutlery. Photo Credit: Shogo

  • KAREN LAM

    EMERGING ARTISTS Jamii's RBC Emerging Artist Program KAREN LAM ACTING, VISUAL ARTS LEARNING EXPERIENCE WITH JAMII “As an emerging artist who has been working with Jamii, I can proudly say that it has opened doors to new learning and working experiences for me. I work as an actor and visual artist; Jamii has connected me with artistic mural projects and acting experiences in the community of The Esplanade these past few months. I have been supported as an actor as they have given me a space to shoot my own self-tape auditions, as well as supporting me with the camera, angles, and extra person reading the script. It helps me because it results in my self-tapes to look more professional and well done. Through Jamii, I had the opportunity to work on 2 large-scale murals in the neighbourhood. The first was the mural working with the main artist Darwin, who is from Pikangikum, Ontario. Following his indigenous artistic style and working together with him and the other artists was a beautiful experience. I had a sense of contentment, knowing how happy the kids and their parents were, after seeing our beautiful work on the wall beside their school. This experience opened me to connecting with the other visual artists and the community, and the smiles of our neighbours. The second mural opportunity I had through Jamii was mentoring and supporting a group of young women in their process of painting the mural. I gained some more leadership skills and was able to put my visual art skills into practice, as I also helped them paint the wall of the hydro box. I learned a lot being in the leadership support role. It provided a sense of belonging, support, and a good feeling after creating a more positive and colourful space in the area. I had the chance to paint a sea creature, an Axelotl, which is my 8 year-old niece’s favourite sea animal. She was thrilled and I was happy to see her smile! The Wayo festival was another eye-opening project I got to work on with Jamii. The show had many different elements (literally), and such amazing and diverse artists showcasing their art through each element. It was a fantastic show to support, as I helped to print beautiful photos for families to take home after the show. I was in awe of the elemental show, and emotional too. The airy opera, the fire dances, the water instruments, the earthly music, and the powerful drums of love; all were fantastically woven together and it was an honour to both witness and help the show. It has opened my eyes to many other mediums of art, and how they can all connect together to make something great for the community. Lastly, as an emerging artist who is helping both behind the scenes and planning to also perform for the new Jamii Shadow Puppet Theatre project in December 2023 titled Mudlark. I was very excited, nervous, and continuously learning new things through this experience. We presented the show, which we created with community, to 400 people and I had the chance to perform alongside professional artists under the artistic direction of Isorine Marc. I get to see the process of how projects start from brainstorming to becoming the real thing before my eyes. It’s interesting, busy, complicated, and also rewarding.” SEE PROJECT SEE ARTIST'S PAGE KAREN LAM: Karen Lam was born and raised in Toronto, Ontario. She has starred in the short film "SOLITUDE" (2021) that was nominated in the NYC Film Festival, and a finalist in Beyond the Curve International Film Festival. She was also one of the actors of Jamii's Unlocked (2020). In 2023, Karen performed in Mudlark, presented to 400 spectators in David Crombie Park, produced by Jamii. FUNDERS:

  • I am me. I am beauty. | Jamii Esplanade

    < Back I am me. I am beauty. A series of workshops to find your voice, facilitated by Georgia Reynolds. 2019 - AUGUST & SEPTEMBER 2019 - AUGUST & SEPTEMBER Hosted at Windmill Line Co-Op. The reflective nature of this workshop invited each of the women to a space of vulnerability in order to embrace inner beauty. The workshop opened them to see, share and celebrate who they are. Facilitator Georgia had these heartfelt words for the participants at the end of the workshop: "To be able to spend these evenings with you, uncovering some of the parts of us, gave me energy to continue to hold these workshops where people can explore both empathy and their natural qualities in a safe and creative space. My wish for you is you are able to take small bits of time each day for yourselves, and engage in all three pillars Empathy ~ I ~ YOU ~ WE." To register, click below: http://closed

  • POTTERY AND TATREEZ

    The Jamii Hub turns into a crafting sanctuary twice a month on Thursdays! POTTERY AND TATREEZ - NOVEMBER 2024 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / THURSDAY CREATING / CRAFTING NIGHTS / CREATING Thursday 7 pm Crafting Nights POTTERY AND TATREEZ November 2024 November 14 - 21, 2024 Facilitator: Nadia Shammas, Paz Jurado Artist: Nadia Shammas Thursday, November 14 at 7pm BEFORE LANGUAGE/BEYOND WORDS: A Poetry and Hand-Building Pottery Workshop Join us for an intimate workshop led by Nadia Shammas, where we will explore hand-building small household objects while incorporating poetry. Together, we will delve into the history of Palestinian radical poetry and social memory, and share our own words or meaningful statements. In Nadia's words: "Art lies at the heart of Palestinian life. Our culture, expression, and daily experiences are reflected in the care and vibrancy of our most personal objects—whether in the decor of our homes, on our coffee cups, or in a small, resplendent plate for discarded olive pits." Join us for this unique workshop blending poetry and pottery on Thursday, November 14, at 7 p.m. at The Jamii Hub. FOR NOVEMBER 14 Artist: Paz Jurado Thursday, November 21 at 7pm Tatreez Learn traditional Palestinian embroidery art, "Tatreez", acknowledged as an intangible cultural heritage of humanity. The tatreez tradition is passed on from generation to generation and has been a channel for resistance for Palestinians in Palestine and diaspora. Tatreez preserves the Palestinian identity, and tells its ancients and evolving stories. This workshop will bestow participants with a soulful piece of Palestinian art and heritage stich by stich. This workshop will take place on November 21, at 7 p.m. at The Jamii Hub. FOR NOVEMBER 21 Photos by Hadeal Karrar Nadia Shammas Nadia Shammas is a multidisciplinary Palestinian-American writer, ceramic artist, and game developer. Raised in Brooklyn, NY, she now resides in Tkaronto, Canada. Nadia is best known for her work in comics as the writer and co-creator of the award-winning graphic novels SQUIRE and WHERE BLACK STARS RISE . Her work spans Palestinian speculative fiction and poetry, often focusing on the interplay of power, memory, the body, and the formation of identity. It is her ultimate belief that Palestine is the only futurism, and she dreams to return home to her grandmother's house in Bethlehem Paz Jurado Paz Jurado is a multidisciplinary artist and activist, born in Chile with Palestinian ancestors, based in Tkaronto, Ontario. She raises awareness about Palestine through art installations, facilitating Tatreez workshops, and leading a Tatreez circle in Toronto. Paz started this journey in Chile to honor the Palestinian culture and resistance and carried on the tradition into Toronto and Peterborough. Photo Credit: Unknown

  • JOY IN THE PARK: NATIONAL INDIGENOUS PEOPLES' DAY | Jamii Esplanade

    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! OUTDOOR EVENTS / JOY IN THE PARK: NATIONAL INDIGENOUS PEOPLES' DAY JOY IN THE PARK! June 21, 2026 6 pm to 8 pm OUTDOOR EVENT SERIES IN DAVID CROMBIE PARK WHEN | Sunday, June 21, 2026 from 6 PM to 8 PM WHERE | David Crombie Park, The Esplanade & Princess St FREE | All ages welcome Event host Eve Saint Live music by FAYTH, Hoop Dance by Emilee Ann Pitawanakwat Featured dance performance by Kaha:wi Dance Theatre Live music by Mâmàwin’towin: A Métis Kitchen Party Facepainting by Linda Epp Craft designed by Eve Sain t Indigenous food by Tea N Bannock, local vendors, kids’ crafts, and Jamii’s 15th Anniversary birthday cake Jamii’s 8th Annual National Indigenous Peoples Day celebration brought community members together in David Crombie Park for an evening of live music, dance, food, art, and gathering. This free outdoor event was a chance for neighbours of all ages to spend time together, celebrate Indigenous creativity, and listen to the voices, stories, and artistry shared by Indigenous artists. This year’s celebration was hosted by Eve Saint , a Wet’suwet’en/Mushkegowuk Land Defender, public speaker, community organizer, and advocate for Indigenous Rights based in Tkaronto. Eve invited us to come together during the summer solstice, a time to celebrate connection to the land and to one another, with joy, happiness, and good energy. The evening featured To Be Anishinaabe / Singing Covers and Originals by FAYTH , an acclaimed Indigenous singer-songwriter from Wiikwemkoong First Nation. FAYTH began performing in her early teens and has grown into a powerful, soulful performer whose music carries both personal expression and community connection. Her work has reached audiences across Ontario and beyond, including performances alongside leading Indigenous artists. The celebration also welcomed Mâmàwin’towin: A Métis Kitchen Party , an acoustic trio co-led by celebrated Métis fiddler Alyssa Katrine and JUNO-nominated, CFMA Award-winning Métis singer-songwriter Amanda Rheaume, with acclaimed multi-instrumentalist Danton Delbaere-Sawchuk. Rooted in the spirit of a Métis kitchen party, their performance brings together fiddle music, rich vocal harmonies, and storytelling grounded in Métis history, kinship, and shared gathering. Jamii was also proud to present Beings of Light by Kaha:wi Dance Theatre , founded by acclaimed multidisciplinary artist and Order of Canada recipient Santee Smith. Performed by Santee Smith, Nickeshia Garrick, and Irma Villafuerte, this contemporary dance work honours kinship with non-human entities and our connection to the natural world. Through movement, the performance acknowledges natural elements and plant life, including sunflowers, medicine plants, and food plants such as strawberries, while reflecting Haudenosaunee horticultural practices and cycles of growth, blooming, and return to the earth. Audiences also experienced a hoop dance performance by Emilee Ann Pitawanakwat , a Hoop Dancer, Fancy Shawl, and Jingle Dress Dancer from Wiikwemkoong Unceded Territory on Manitoulin Island. Emilee Ann has been hoop dancing since the age of five and has performed alongside many Indigenous artists across Ontario. Jamii is honoured to welcome her back after previous performances at Joy in the Park events and WAYO. The evening also included Indigenous food, local vendors, face painting with Linda Epp , a craft designed by Eve Saint, kids’ activities, and Jamii’s 15th Anniversary birthday cake. This event was part of Jamii and Canadian Stage’s ongoing collaboration to bring accessible, inclusive arts programming to public spaces. Support free community arts Jamii keeps programs and events free so everyone can take part, without financial barriers. If you’re able, you can support our $15 for 15 Years campaign and help us reach $15,000 by December 15 for Jamii’s future programs at The Jamii Hub. Your donation moves the goal forward and is eligible for a charitable tax receipt. Donate here now. Jamii’s Joy in the Park events are made possible through the support of the City of Toronto and the Community Celebration Support Fund as part of “The World in the City.” This event is supported by Canadian Heritage, Canada Council for the Arts, Ontario Arts Council, Toronto Arts Council, City of Toronto, Metcalf Foundation, and Rama Gaming House and Charitable Gaming. Joy in the Park: Celebrating National Indigenous Peoples Day June 21, 2026, 6:00–8:00 p.m. David Crombie Park ARTIST LINE-UP: Event host Eve Saint Live music by FAYTH, Hoop Dance by Emilee Ann Pitawanakwat Featured dance performance by Kaha:wi Dance Theatre Live music by Mâmàwin’towin: A Métis Kitchen Party Facepainting by Linda Epp Craft designed by Eve Saint Photos by Jae Yang

  • Cocoa and Paint | Jamii Esplanade

    < Back Cocoa and Paint Jamii is hosting a series of FREE “Cocoa and Paint” workshops for people of ALL ages in our community. 2022 - March 30 – April 6 – April 13 (3 evenings) Funded by Rama Gaming House As a group, alongside artist Alison Garwood-Jones, we will be painting the same image individually as a group while enjoying a cup of hot cocoa. Alison will go through a step-by-step process on how to paint the chosen image. This will allow participants to learn new painting skills, while also putting those skills to practice in real-time! The paintings will be an urban scene, a floral painting, and lastly a portrait which is all beginner-friendly. The sessions will also include a healing element as we will explore and express emotions through being intentional with our choice of colours, brush strokes, and technique in addition to our group discussions. Alison Garwood-Jones is a Toronto illustrator and writer who makes art because it lifts her spirits and changes her sense of what's possible. It's a message she likes to share with others. Participants have the option to either commit to all three paint nights or just attend one. The workshops will be on Wednesdays from 6:00 pm-8:00 pm on March 30th, April 6th, and April 13th, 2022, at the St. Lawrence Community Center. FREE - No previous painting experience needed. To register, click below: http://www.jamii.ca/register

  • Hisia | Jamii Esplanade

    OUTDOOR EVENTS / HISIA - 2020 HISIA Aug and Oct 2020 HISIA is the Swahili word for inner feelings, emotions and thoughts. August 21st, 2020 - David Crombie Park (corner of Esplanade and Princess) Pop-up performance featuring four amazing artists: Heidi Chan (flute, drum) Jonelle Sills (modern opera singer) Raha Javanfar (violinist) Eman Hillawi Eman Aerial & Pole (lollilop lyra artist) We have invited these artists to connect with one another through a structured improvisation exploring their individual whirlwind of emotions since pandemic hit us mid-March. We all lived through the same major event, but all had a different journey. HISIA is a window into our unique ways to deal with the same situation. We hope you will come “look through the window” with us – as usual, at a safe physical distance from one another. October 3rd, 2020 On October 3rd 2020, we danced, filmed, wrote down and sang these emotions to share with you in the hope that you may relate and connect to some of them. The pandemic is an individual journey in a shared landscape. We hope these emotions will weave our journey together. Produced by Jamii Director: Isorine Marc Live videography: Ella Cooper Live poetry: Paulina O’Kieffe Anthony Music and singing: Evangelia Kambites Dancers: Jaz Fairy J, Nicola Pantin, Meryem Alaoui, Sukruti Tirupattur, Yvonne Ng Photographer: Gillian Mapp Editing: Isorine Marc Music: “Feel the Fall” by Evangelia Kambites In partnership with Supported by

  • Joy in the Park: SummerWorks | Jamii Esplanade

    OUTDOOR EVENTS / JOY IN THE PARK: SUMMERWORKS - 2024 JOY IN THE PARK! August 2024 David Crombie Park - Lower Jarvis St & The Esplanade On August 1st and 2nd, Jamii joined forces with SummerWorks to celebrate Emancipation Day as part of "Joy in the Park" with live performances by CinnaMoon Collective (Nickeshia Garrick and Irma Villafuerte), Rudy Ray Trio Band, and Maulid Owino. Hosted by Brayden Cairns, the event included face painting and henna for the young attendees, making it a memorable community gathering. The Rudy Ray Trio Band kicked off the evening at 6 pm and 7 pm with dynamic and soulful performances. Led by exceptional trumpet player Rudy Ray, known for his virtuosic technique and expressive tone, the trio captivated audiences with unique interpretations of gypsy jazz. Guitarist Jared Higgins and bassist Max Simpson complemented Rudy’s trumpet, creating a vibrant sound that breathed new life into jazz classics. At 6:30 pm, the dance duet "Surrendered Spirits," choreographed and performed by Nickeshia Garrick and Irma Villafuerte, unfolded on stage. This powerful piece explored the artists’ reflections on childhood, familial displacement, and their identities as children of marginalized, racialized, and immigrant families. With emotional depth and physical virtuosity, the performance took the audience through moments of collective breath, care, and ancestral healing. The evening’s final performance featured Maulid Owino at 7:30 pm, a talented dancer from Kenya who was invited to Toronto following Jamii’s recent trip to Kenya. Alongside his solo piece, Maulid surprised the audience with a collaborative performance with Nickeshia Garrick. Known for his work with the Flat Dance Company in South Africa and for his internationally recognized dance films, Maulid brought a unique and powerful presence to the celebration. The event charmed attendees and added a joyful spark to the mid-summer evening, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended. Supported by Artist Line-up: CinnaMoon Collective (Nickeshia Garrick & Irma Villafuerte), Rudy Ray Trio Band, Maulid Owino Photos by Jae Yang

  • To My Past Present and Future | Jamii Esplanade

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

  • 2ND ANNUAL CELEBRATING CULTURES | Jamii Esplanade

    MULTICULTURAL DAY CELEBRATIONS / 2020 MULTICULTURAL DAY Jamii's Annual Celebrations 2020 - 2nd Year! June 27, 2020 David Crombie Park | The Esplanade & Princess St On June 27th 2020, the community of The Esplanade came together to celebrate Canada's Muliculturalism Day, funded by Canadian Heritage and Canada Council for the Arts, and in partnership with Canadian Stage. We treated the audience with a beautiful performance bringing to life a series of eight visual portraits that were created as part of Wind Stories . A unique way to share and celebrate each other stories. FEATURED ARTISTS: Ashima Suri, Jonelle Sills, Jeremiah Sparks, Michael Caldwell, Paulina O’Kieffe-Anthony, Sue Croweagle, Heidi Chan, Raha Javanfar, with hosts Ryan G. Hinds & Indrit Kasapi. Photos and videos: Laura Dittmann Photos by Laura Dittmann

  • At Heart (Docu film)

    2018 At Heart (Docu film) 2018 Citizens of The Esplanade Premiered Nov 2018 - Toronto, CA Awards: Best Editing, short documentary film category - Five Continents International Film Festival (Venezuela) - 2019Best Cinematography, short documentary film category - Five Continents International Film Festival (Venezuela) - 2019Award of Merit - IndieFest Film Awards (USA) 2019 OFFICIAL SELECTION: Alternative Film Festival (Canada)Docs Without Borders Film Festival (USA)Five Continents International Film Festival (Venezuela)IndieFEST Film Awards (USA)Diversity Feedback Film Festival (Canada) Canadian Diversity Film Festival (Canada) Project Genesis: In 2018, more than 150 Esplanadians of all ages (people who live, work, study and play in The Esplanade neighbourhood – downtown Toronto) embarked, with a team of artists, on a co-creative process to produce a participatory community-engaged docu-film. At Heart, Citizens of The Esplanade shines a light on our neighbourhood, the St Lawrence, and invites people to reflect on the values that drive community development and city planning. Artistic team: Producer: Isorine Marc Film director: Ayelen Liberona & Joseph Camí Assistant Project Coordinator: Yasmin Harris, Afsheen Chowdury, Nadifa Daud Mohamed Creative Process MARCH 2018: A total of 39 people joined a series of circle discussions to share personal stories or stories from our community which we feel are untold, silenced or represent a challenge. MAY 2018: A series of exciting workshops during which 32 people brainstormed, shared ideas and took artistic directions for the film with a creation of a series of shots. FILM PRODUCTION - JULY & AUG 2018: More than 100 people stepped in front of the camera as talents of our project. Another 20 people worked long hours behind the camera to bring this project to life. EDITING & POST-PRODUCTION: SEPT & OCT 2018 PREMIERE OF THE FILM - SOLD-OUT Nov 26, 2018 - Berkeley Theatre SECOND SCREENING: Nov 28, 2018 - Performing Arts Lodge

  • Thursday Creating | Jamii Esplanade

    The Jamii Hub in Toronto is home to creativity on Thursdays! From painting nights to diverse crafts, explore artistry monthly or occasionally! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / Thursday Creating CREATING Thursday 7 pm Painting and Crafting Nights WHEN | Thursdays from 7pm to 9pm (Check the dates by clicking "more info" below) WHERE | The Jamii Hub @ 264 The Esplanade AGE GROUP | All Ages - Children under 12 are welcome when accompanied by an adult FREE ADMISSION | REGISTRATION REQUIRED | NO PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE NEEDED On Thursdays at Jamii, The Jamii Hub transforms into a creative haven. It's a day dedicated to creating! To kick off each month, we host a painting night, a local favorite. The following two sessions are always diverse, offering you the chance to explore various crafts. For painting nights; whether you attend every monthly session or drop by occasionally, the choice is yours. For our craft sessions, a heads up: some projects may span two sessions, so be sure to confirm your attendance for those particular projects. Thursdays at Jamii are about unlocking your creativity, one session at a time. The creations you made, if you choose so, will be displayed at our “Saturday Mingling” to showcase to our community! PAINTING NIGHTS MORE INFO CRAFTING NIGHTS MORE INFO

  • Takako Segawa

    < Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Takako Segawa Dancer Takako is contemporary dancer, choreographer and performer. Born in Kochi, Japan, she trained in both traditional arts and contemporary Japanese movement styles. Takako graduated from Nippon Sports Science University, and is a certified professional dancer from the London Contemporary Dance School. Takako’s 20-years career includes performances throughout Europe, North America and Asia. Takako also choreographed WA! in 2019 for the Yosakoi team premiered in Kochi Yosakoi dance festival. website << BACK TO ARTISTS

  • JAPANESE CLOTHING

    Culture Cloths JAPANESE CLOTHING - MAY 2024 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / TUESDAY DISCOVERING / CULTURE CLOTHS / LEARNING Tuesday 7 pm Culture Cloths JAPANESE CLOTHING May 2024 May 14, 2024 Lead Artist: Takako Segawa In this edition of Culture Cloths, you are invited to delve into the world of Japanese attire, exploring its cultural significance and evolution through time. From the timelessness of the kimono to the understated charm of the yukata, Japanese garments reflect tradition and craftsmanship. Join us as we explore the diversity and beauty of Japan through its garments and discover the artistry and symbolism woven into Japanese clothing. Sabrine S Hakam, concept and design, will moderate a conversation with "MAY at Jamii" lead artist Takako Segawa. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Isorine Marc 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.

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  • FLAMENCO FROM SPAIN

    March 2024 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / DANCING / FLAMENCO FROM SPAIN - MARCH 2024 DANCING Cycles 2024 March 2024 FLAMENCO FROM SPAIN March 4 - 11 - 18, 2024 from 7pm to 8:30pm Facilitator: Tamar Ilana Candace Kumar is offering a series of creative Filipino cultural dance workshops rooted in Igal dance. Igal is a meditative dance form originating from the Sama Indigenous communities across the Philippines and Maritime Southeast Asia. Igal connects us to land and the environment around us, encouraging us to slow down, move intentionally and listen to our breath. Participants will be guided through a sensory meditation, and exploratory movement exercises, and will learn a short structured piece. Embodying the theme TEKA LANG, come explore slowing down in the community and movement! REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Je Yang, Karen Lam, Mariana Hernandez Photo by Cassandra Popescu Tamar Ilana Tamar Ilana is a Jewish-Indigenous multilingual singer and flamenco dancer. Tamar's music and fierce talent reflect her life growing up in multicultural Toronto; accompanying her ethnomusicologist mother, on village fieldwork expeditions and on stage as a child; and living in Ibiza, Barcelona, Paris and Seville. Tamar is a renowned flamenco dancer and multilingual singer, and in 2011 she founded her flamenco/global roots project, Ventanas. Together they have released three albums, been nominated for four Canadian Folk Music Awards including Best Traditional Singer, and toured Canada, US and Colombia. They are currently working on their 4th album and will be embarking on their first European tour in October 2023. Tamar has collaborated with such renowned artists as Jesse Cook, Measha Brueggergosman, Anna Colóm (Rosalía), Manu Soto, Jim Creeggan (Barenaked Ladies), Suba Sankaran, Meesha Shafi, and Margaret Atwood. Tamar has also been featured in award-winning international musicals in New York, San Francisco, Washington DC, the UK and Germany. Tamar Ilana is the Executive and Artistic Director of FabCollab, a performing arts organization based in Toronto, Canada. Tamar was one of the first Toronto-based artists to pivot to live-streaming during the COVID-19 pandemic, successfully making the transition to online as a presenter and performer. In August 2020 she co-founded FabCollab in order to continue this work, and, with FabCollab, has since created numerous programmes and presented over 200 IBPOC womxn and minority artists at iconic Toronto sold out venues, live streaming to audiences of 40,000+ in partnership with the National Arts Centre, Lula Lounge, Koerner Hall, Small World Music and the Aga Khan Museum and the Royal Ontario Museum. Instagram Upcoming Dates UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Mon, Apr 06 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 06, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 13 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 13, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 20 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 20, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 27 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 27, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration.

  • FORRÓ FROM NORTHERN BRAZIL

    February 2024 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / DANCING / FORRÓ FROM NORTHERN BRAZIL - FEBRUARY 2024 DANCING Cycles 2024 February 2024 FORRÓ FROM NORTHERN BRAZIL February 5 - 12 - 19, 2024 from 7pm to 8:30pm Facilitator: Vinicius and Joseane In February, Vini Dantas de Limo Melo and Joseane Maria Da Silva will lead an introduction to Forró, a dynamic Brazilian partner dance known for its energetic footwork and lively music. No need to bring a partner. Participants will be encouraged to switch partners during the class and dance with others in the workshop. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Mariana Hernandez Photo by Forro Vini Dantas de Limo Melo Vinicius started dancing forró in 2014 as part of the Forró in Toronto group. He returned to Brazil in 2015, where he started a group called Forró na UFRN, which, to this day, has taught more than 1000 people. Later Vinicius returned to Toronto and re-joined the Forró For All crew in 2022. He is extremely passionate about forró as dance but also as a cultural manifestation, studying its history, artists, and contemporaneity. Instagram Joseane Maria Da Silva Joseane is a forró instructor and holds a master’s degree in scenics arts. She is keenly passionate about the popular culture from the Northeastern or Brazil. Since her childhood, she has have forró as a part of her life, participating in quadrilha festivities, Brazilian’s manifestation of square dance, for more than 3 years. She joined Forró na UFRN in 2016 as a student, and became a forró instructor starting in 2017, with a focus in the development of body awareness. In 2022 she joined Forró For All as an instructor, and started teaching private lessons in 2023, intertwining dance knowledge with music and body for a conscious dance. She constantly seeks to rediscover and research forró as a dance, as a cultural manifestation and a rediscover of one’s self. Instagram Upcoming Dates UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Mon, Apr 06 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 06, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 13 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 13, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 20 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 20, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 27 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 27, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration.

  • IGAL FROM PHILIPPINES

    October 2024 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / DANCING / IGAL FROM PHILIPPINES -OCTOBER 2024 DANCING Cycles 2024 October 2024 IGAL FROM PHILIPPINES October 7 - 14 - 21, 2024 from 7pm to 8:30pm Facilitator: Candace Kumar Discovering Igal Dance Candace Kumar is offering a series of creative Filipino cultural dance workshops rooted in Igal dance. Igal is a meditative dance form originating from the Sama Indigenous communities across the Philippines and Maritime Southeast Asia. Igal connects us to land and the environment around us, encouraging us to slow down, move intentionally and listen to our breath. Participants will be guided through a sensory meditation, and exploratory movement exercises, and will learn a short structured piece. Embodying the theme TEKA LANG, come explore slowing down in the community and movement! We expect you to come and join us to discover (or explore further) Igal dance in this series of unique dance workshops for all levels. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Jae Yang, Hadeal Karrar Photo Credit: Unknown Candace Kumar Candace is a Filipino cultural dance artist, educator and choreographer. She has trained for over 18 years in Filipino dance, researching and performing diverse styles from all across the Philippines. Candace has toured throughout North America and Europe, sharing and teaching Filipino dance traditions. Her work aims to reimagine traditional dance forms from the Canadian diaspora. As a diasporic artist, Candace believes cultural dance can guide us through the future as we navigate life on land that is not our ancestral home. Upcoming Dates UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Mon, Apr 06 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 06, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 13 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 13, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 20 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 20, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 27 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 27, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration.

  • CONTEMPORARY DANCE

    February 2025 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / DANCING / CONTEMPORARY DANCE - FEBRUARY 2025 DANCING Cycles 2025 February 2025 CONTEMPORARY DANCE February 3 - 10 - 17, 2025 from 7pm to 8:30pm Facilitator: Ysabel Garcia Contemporary dance is a style of interpretive dance that combines techniques from various genres, including ballet, jazz, modern dance, and lyrical dance. It's characterized by a lack of stylistic standards, similarly to human beings - contemporary dance is constantly changing and evolving. In this workshop, participants will explore contemporary dance as a means of self-expression, connecting with others through exploratory and collaborative partner work while engaging in meaningful moments of self-reflection. Using the theme of mirrors as a guiding thread, the workshop invites participants to look inward, embrace their individuality, and see themselves in a new light through the power of movement. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Hadeal Karrar Photo Credit: Unknown Ysabel Garcia Ysabel Garcia is a Toronto-based emerging dance artist, choreographer and dance educator. Ysabel graduated in 2023 from York University’s Dance programme wherein she was the recipient of the York Dance award and trained under many prominent Toronto contemporary dance artists including Tracey Norman and Syreeta Hector. Prior to this, Ysabel graduated from the Pre-Professional Programme at the Toronto School of Ballet and trained at the Prima Ballet School and the Joffrey Ballet School in New York City. Most recently, Ysabel was a featured alumni choreographer for O’Neill Collegiate Vocational Institute’s “Creations” showcase and was the 2023 Emerging Choreographer for Kingston’s “Ground Up” Dance Festival. Presently, Ysabel works as a Dance Teacher in the city and at The National Ballet of Canada in Education and Community Engagement amalgamating her dual passions for dance and inclusion and equity. Upcoming Dates UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Mon, Apr 06 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 06, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 13 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 13, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 20 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 20, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 27 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 27, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration.

  • BUTOH

    May 2025 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / DANCING / BUTOH - MAY 2025 DANCING Cycles 2025 May 2025 BUTOH May 5 - 12 - 19, 2025 from 7pm to 8:30pm Facilitator: Mayumi Lashbrook Discover the art of mindful movement in this welcoming series with dance artist Mayumi Lashbrook. Rooted in the Japanese avant-garde dance style of Butoh, these workshops offer a space to slow down, tune in to your body, and explore movement as an expression of inner awareness. Whether you are a dancer, a creative spirit, or someone looking to reconnect with yourself through movement, this is a unique opportunity to experience dance as a pathway to presence. Under Mayumi’s gentle guidance, you will dive into improvisation exercises inspired by Butoh’s philosophy of uncovering the dance already within you. Through mindful attention and creative limitations, you will explore how slowing down can open up surprising new forms of expression. Mayumi brings years of experience as a performer, choreographer, and facilitator, and shares her journey of learning Butoh with renowned dance artist Denise Fujiwara. No dance experience is needed. Just bring your curiosity and willingness to move. For those who want to take their experience further and perform, we invite you to join Saturday Mingling on May 24, a lively evening of artistic sharing where community members and artists come together to celebrate the creative journey. Spots are limited, so be sure to register today! This Monday Dancing - Finding Presence through Butoh workshop is part of Jamii's May cycle, guided by lead artist Heidi Chan, and centred around the theme of Small & Mighty. Through these workshops in dancing, painting, crafting, sewing, singing, and creative writing, we will 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 Small & Mighty, finding the joy and value in doing one thing, but doing it well by slowing down and zooming in.” - Heidi Chan. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Hadeal Karrar, Heidi Chan Photo Credit: Unknown Mayumi Lashbrook Mayumi Lashbrook (she/her) is a mixed race Japanese Canadian settler who seeks to create transformative dance theatre experiences that invite attentive presence. Her practices span performance, choreography, curation, and facilitation. Mayumi is a 2024 nominee of the Johanna Metcalf Performing Arts Award and the Artistic Director of Aeris Körper, recipient of the 2024 Hamilton Arts Creator Award. As mentee of renowned dance theatre artist Denise Fujiwara, she has been studying choreographic composition, the Japanese dance form Butoh, and is a company member of Fujiwara Dance Inventions. She aims to create spaces that pursues an equilibrium of artistic excellence and compassionate care. Upcoming Dates UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Mon, Apr 06 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 06, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 13 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 13, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 20 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 20, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 27 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 27, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration.

  • LEARNING TAP DANCE

    March 2025 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / DANCING / LEARNING AND TRYING TAP DANCE - MARCH 2025 DANCING Cycles 2025 March 2025 LEARNING TAP DANCE March 3 - 10 - 17, 2025 from 7pm to 8:30pm Facilitator: Elise McGrenera Step into the rhythm and explore the joy of tap dance in this all-levels workshop with dancer Elise McGrenera! Whether you're a complete beginner or have some experience, this movement-based class will introduce you to the fundamentals of tap dance, focusing on rhythm, coordination, and musicality. Guided by lead artist Sharon Zarita Adhiambo’s theme "Grounded", we’ll explore how rhythm connects us to ourselves and each other, feeling the beat not just in our feet but throughout the whole body. Through traditional tap steps, movement exercises, and creative exploration, you'll discover the grounding power of dance in an open and welcoming space. No tap shoes? No problem! Wear comfortable shoes or bring tap shoes if you have them. For those who want to take their experience further, we invite you to join Saturday Mingling on March 22, a lively evening of artistic sharing where community members and artists come together to celebrate the creative journey. Come move, make some noise, and find your rhythm—one tap step at a time! This dancing workshop is part of Jamii's March Cycle evolved around lead artist Sharon Zarita Adhiambo’s theme "Grounded", which includes workshops like Tuesday Creative Writing, Tuesday Book Club, Tuesday Culture Cloths-Artist Talks, 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 Hadeal Karrar Photo by Dayna Szyndrowski Elisa McGrenera Elise McGrenera is a tap dancer from Vancouver, Canada currently living in Toronto, Ontario. Elise is an alumna of the School at Jacob's Pillow where she was accepted into the 2019 tap dance program and graduated with the Professional Advancement in Dance Award. She was a featured dancer in the 2019 Vancouver premier of Danny Nielsen’s On Foot and joined the cast again in 2023 for their BC tour. Elise was featured in both the 2021 and 2022 productions of Jeffrey Dawson and Friends presented by the Vancouver Tap Dance Society. In 2022, Elise co-founded the tap dance collective Boys’ Club which was invited to showcase their first full-length work throughout Europe. Currently, Boys’ Club is creating a new work through the 2024/2025 cohort of the Process+Practice residency produced by TOES For Dance and Elise continues to immerse herself in the tap dance and jazz music community in Toronto. Upcoming Dates UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Mon, Apr 06 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 06, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 13 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 13, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 20 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 20, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 27 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 27, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration.

  • STORYBEING

    September 2024 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / DANCING / STORYBEING - SEPTEMBER 2024 DANCING Cycles 2024 September 2024 STORYBEING September 9 - 16 - 23, 2024 from 7pm to 8:30pm Facilitator: N. Jayarajan, B. Buan, R. Joshi Exploring Bharatanatyam dance Monday, September 9 Artist: Neena Jayarajan Bharatanatyam, a dance form from Southern India, beautifully tells stories and conveys emotions through gestures, facial movements, and rhythmic footwork. Join Nova Dance Associate Artist Neena Jayarajan for a gentle and enjoyable journey into creativity and storytelling, where participants can express themselves in a fun and supportive environment. Neena Jayarajan has trained with Guru Dr. Menaka Thakkar for over 28 years, and holds an MA in dance from York University. She served as Assistant Artistic Director, principal dancer, and rehearsal director of the Menaka Thakkar Dance Company (MTDC). Neena has toured across North America and Asia, and has performed in over 200 schools. Philippine-inspired dance practice Monday, September 16 Artist: Blessyl Buan Join multidisciplinary dance artist Blessyl Buan in a choreographic workshop that begins with intention and reconnection to the Land. Guided by the ancient Philippine Script of Baybayin, an embodied movement practice will emerge. The energetic charge of dried palm symbolizes the Philippine weaving traditions of the “banig” (mat) and will facilitate wayfinding of ancestral storytelling. Her process explores Philippine Indigenous traditions, joy, and "Kapwa" (community with humans, nature and the cosmos) rooted in contemporary dance. Blessyl Buan, a contemporary dancer, choreographer, and visual artist, crafts colourful interdisciplinary works echoing rhythm, movement, and land-based spirituality. With a Kinesiology degree (2001) and a Chiropractic doctorate (2005), her academic background provides a deep understanding of the human body. Blessyl combines in her practice both her academic backgound with over two decades of professional dance experience. Discover a Garba Class! Monday, September 23 Artist: Rachana Joshi Join Rachana’s Garba class! Garba is a vibrant community circle dance from Gujarat, India. Dancing in concentric circles with snaps, claps, and twirls, fosters both personal and communal experiences. As movements repeat and speed increases, enjoy a meditative state while getting a great workout. Garba celebrates the feminine divine and has deep roots in village traditions, making it a joyful and culturally rich experience for all. Rachana will guide partcipants through this beautiful experience. Rachana Joshi is an emerging dance artist based in Toronto. She completed her Bharatanatyam arangetram under Lata Pada in 2017 and trained in the Tanjavur bani with Guru H.K. Kalyanasundaram and Guru Harikishan S Nair. Rachana graduated with honors from York University’s B.F.A program in Dance. She has earned the Monorama Thakkar Award in Indian Classical Dance and the Kondor Fine Arts Award. Rachana is a company dancer with Nova Dance. As co-founder of Kala Collective, she aims to share South Asian diasporic identity REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Jae Yang, Hadeal Karrar Photo Credit: Sabrine S. Hakam Neena Jayarajan has trained with Guru Dr. Menaka Thakkar for over 28 years, and holds an MA in dance from York University. She served as Assistant Artistic Director, principal dancer, and rehearsal director of the Menaka Thakkar Dance Company (MTDC). Neena has toured across North America and Asia, and has performed in over 200 schools. Blessyl Buan, a contemporary dancer, choreographer, and visual artist, crafts colourful interdisciplinary works echoing rhythm, movement, and land-based spirituality. With a Kinesiology degree (2001) and a Chiropractic doctorate (2005), her academic background provides a deep understanding of the human body. Blessyl combines in her practice both her academic backgound with over two decades of professional dance experience. Rachana Joshi is an emerging dance artist based in Toronto. She completed her Bharatanatyam arangetram under Lata Pada in 2017 and trained in the Tanjavur bani with Guru H.K. Kalyanasundaram and Guru Harikishan S Nair. Rachana graduated with honors from York University’s B.F.A program in Dance. She has earned the Monorama Thakkar Award in Indian Classical Dance and the Kondor Fine Arts Award. Rachana is a company dancer with Nova Dance. As co-founder of Kala Collective, she aims to share South Asian diasporic identity through dance. Upcoming Dates UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Mon, Apr 06 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 06, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 13 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 13, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 20 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 20, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 27 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 27, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration.

  • KUKU FROM GUINEA

    April 2024 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / DANCING / KUKU FROM GUINEA - APRIL 2024 DANCING Cycles 2024 April 2024 KUKU FROM GUINEA April 8 - 15 - 22, 2024 from 7pm to 8:30pm Facilitator: Mabinty Sylla Join us to learn the basic steps and movements of Kuku, a traditional West African dance from Guinea. Originally danced by women celebrating the fishing harvest, Kuku has evolved into a popular rhythm featured at various festivals, including full moon celebrations. This women's dance is performed in a circle, and under the guidance of dancer Mabinty Sylla, participants will delve into not only the steps and rhythms but also the cultural significance of this traditional art form. For those inclined, participants will have the opportunity to share a short choreography at our Thursday Mingling event on May 2nd. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Jae Yang, Isorine Marc, Mariana Hernendez Photo Credit: Unknown Mabinty Sylla Originally from West Africa Guinea, Mabinty Sylla has been dancing in Africa for sixteen years, beginning her dance training at the age of 12 in Conakry with Mamadouba Camara her dance instructor, who is the first soloist for the Ballet Djoliba and former soloist for the Ballet Africans-two of West Africa’s most respected traditional groups. Also she learnt and performed with a group Ballet Tayelly directed by Fode Gassama. She moved to Toronto Canada since 2008 and continued her dancing & networking in Toronto with associations such as A.F.C.Y.. ..now named vibe arts and Lula Lounge french schools african dance program. She has presented her work in most of Canada’s provinces and cities e.g sunfest London Ontario and Halifax African festival. In Toronto she performs at numerous festivals such as Afro Fest from 2009 to the present and Muhtadi International Drumming. She also performs in most of the mega-city's African and Caribbean cultural programs such as Oshawa African Pavilion fiesta week, Carrisaga, Habari African Festival at Harbour Front and is a member of the extraordinary Okavango orchestra. Mabinty Sylla teaches and choreograph West African dancing in many areas e.g. schools and community programs, she also does private workshops for individuals and groups. Instagram Upcoming Dates UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Mon, Apr 06 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 06, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 13 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 13, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 20 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 20, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 27 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 27, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration.

  • YOSAKOI FROM JAPAN

    May 2024 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / DANCING / YOSAKOI FROM JAPAN - MAY 2024 DANCING Cycles 2024 May 2024 YOSAKOI FROM JAPAN May 6 - 13 - 20, 2024 from 7pm to 8:30pm Facilitator: Takako Segawa In May, join us and discover "Yosakoi," a timeless Japanese dance form, with rich history and vibrant energy. Derived from the ancient Japanese phrase meaning "come and visit at night," Yosakoi has transcended generations, evolving into a dynamic expression of movement cherished by people of all ages. Whether you're a novice or seasoned dancer, come to learn the basic steps of Yosakoi with dancer, choreographer, and instructor, Takako Segawa, as your guide. Takako's own cultural heritage is intimately intertwined with the origins of this dance form and she will bring Naruko for you to try – it is instruments that used to scare away birds in rice fields in Kochi, Japan, and will be our dance instruments! REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Hadeal Karrar, Jae Yang Photo Credit: Laura Dittman Takako Segawa Takako Segawa is a contemporary dancer, choreographer, theatre performer, and director of Japanese dance arts. Born in Japan, Takako trained in traditional arts and contemporary Japanese movement styles, before graduating from the London Contemporary Dance School. Takako’s 25-year career includes performances throughout Europe, Asia, and North America. She was nominated outstanding female for the Dora Award in 2015, and has been honoured by two All Japan Kobe Dance Festival awards, and by the Stuttgart SoloTanz festival. Recently she performed in "Universal Child Care" at the Canadian Stage in Toronto. Takako also performs worldwide with the Corpus theatre group and is currently directing the multimedia piece “Echoes: Vibrations from Japan to Canada,” premiering in Ottawa in November 2024. Upcoming Dates UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Mon, Apr 06 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 06, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 13 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 13, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 20 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 20, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 27 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 27, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration.

  • CACHARPAYA AND TINKU

    April 2025 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / DANCING / CACHARPAYA AND TINKU - APRIL 2025 DANCING Cycles 2025 April 2025 CACHARPAYA AND TINKU April 7 - 14 -21, 2025 from 7pm to 8:30pm Facilitators: Carolina Rojas, Ximena Loayza Join us for an exciting three-part workshop that will transport you to the Andean Altiplano, where you will discover two vibrant traditional dances. This free workshop series welcomes all levels, whether you love to dance or are stepping onto the floor for the first time. Week 1 – Cacharpaya with Carolina Rojas Carolina Rojas, a seasoned dancer, choreographer, and arts administrator, will guide you through Cacharpaya, a collective Andean dance performed to mark the final farewell to festivities and carnival. Feel the rhythm of community as you take part in this collective dance. Holding hands, moving in sync, and sharing energy, Cacharpaya is all about connection and celebration. With her extensive background in dance education, Carolina will immerse you in the communal joy of this captivating tradition. Weeks 2 & 3 – Tinku with Ximena Loayza Learn the dynamic movements of this traditional Bolivian dance, led by Ximena Loayza, a passionate Bolivian dance instructor with over 15 years of experience. Originally a Bolivian Quechua ritual that began as a form of ceremonial combat from North of Potosi, Tinku brings energy, tradition, and storytelling to life through movement. With Ximena’s deep knowledge of Bolivian folklore and her talent for bringing cultural traditions to life, you will learn the dance steps and experience the powerful symbolism behind the Tinku. You’ll also have the chance to wear traditional costumes, immersing yourself in the full experience. Join us at this space to share, move, and create memories that will stay with you long after the music fades. No dance experience is necessary; just bring your enthusiasm. For those who want to take their experience further and perform, we invite you to join Saturday Mingling on April 26, a lively evening of artistic sharing where community members and artists come together to celebrate the creative journey. This workshop is free to attend, but spaces are limited, so be sure to register today! This Dancing workshop is part of Jamii's April cycle, guided by lead artist Carolina Rojas, and centred around the theme of the Chakana—an ancestral Andean symbol representing the connection between the spiritual, earthly, and inner realms. Through these workshops in dancing, painting, crafting, sewing,singing and creative writing, we’ll reflect on how these ancient teachings resonate with our modern lives, connecting us to nature, the cycles of life, and our community. “This is an invitation to reinterpret the meaning of the Chakana, connecting its ancient wisdom with our modern experiences.” – Carolina Rojas. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Hadeal Karrar Photo by Sabrine S. Hakam Carolina Rojas Carolina Rojas, a dancer, choreographer, and arts administrator. She earned a Dance Interpretation degree from Las Americas University in Santiago de Chile. In 2012, she co-founded 'Danza Independiente Antofagasta,' aiming to expand dance horizons in her hometown. Carolina initiated the 'Interpreters in Dance School' project in 2013, providing free training to aspiring dancers, fostering community growth and education. Since moving to Canada in 2017, she has expanded her repertoire, contributed to the Dance Migration Company, and volunteered with Chilean associations, sharing her cultural heritage and commitment to community empowerment. Carolina’s vision prioritizes inclusivity and accessibility, particularly for Latin American communities in Toronto facilitating artist exchanges. Carolina is not only our Lead Artist for April at Jamii, she is also our Metcalf Intern, managing programs such as Belonging and Laini, excelling in arts management. Ximena Loayza For the past fifteen years, Ximena Loayza have been shaping the lives of children and adults through dance. She grew up in a very traditional and cultural country named Bolivia where she learned about Bolivian folklore and traditions. Now as a dance instructor in Canada, she has the pleasure to teach about Latin dances but specially about Bolivian folklore. Upcoming Dates UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Mon, Apr 06 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 06, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 13 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 13, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 20 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 20, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 27 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 27, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration.

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We acknowledge the land we are meeting on is the traditional territory of many nations including the Mississaugas of the Credit, the Anishnabeg, the Chippewa, the Haudenosaunee and the Wendat peoples and is now home to many diverse First Nations, Inuit and Métis peoples. We also acknowledge that Toronto is covered by Treaty 13 with the Mississaugas of the Credit.

© 2026 Jamii Esplanade – Charitable Registration Number: 803873207 RR 0001

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