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

Host the best kids' birthday party in downtown Toronto with arts and crafts at The Jamii Hub. Enjoy custom activities, fun, and creativity for a unique celebration! at The Jamii Hub Art Birthday Parties Address: 264 The Esplanade, Toronto ON, M5A 4J6 Contact: info@jamii.ca With our exciting Art Birthday Parties, we offer unforgettable memories centered around creativity and fun, tailored to what both your child and you want and need. Customized to your child’s interests and age group, whether they enjoy painting, crafting, dancing, singing, or other artistic mediums and even a karaoke or movie night with popcorn, each Art Birthday Party promises the best fun for your child and their friends!  FILL OUT THE BOOKING FORM Birthday Package Included: Art activity of your choice with supplies and facilitator included  Dedicated staff   Optional 1-hour set-up (for decoration you choose) pre-party.   2-hour private session with children, including one hour for guided art activity and one hour for food, cake and free play.  Jamii set up and clean up (not including your personal decorations)  Photo booth with one printed photo for each participating child.  Not Included: We do not provide food and drinks. You are welcome to bring your own at no additional cost. We have a microwave, fridge, kettle, and coffee machine.   Art Activities Choose one: Guided or freestyle painting fun  Guided or freestyle dancing fun  Guided or freestyle collaging fun  Guided or freestyle crafting fun  Karaoke fun  If your child has another art interest, please share with us! Additional Fun Options: Photo booth with one printed photo for each child – free! Movie screening with popcorn- 2 hours of extra fun for an additional $200 Price Your child's fun is priceless! $450 for up to 8 children Additional child: $35/each Extended time: $100/hour FILL OUT THE BOOKING FORM As a mother of three, I love working with kids and helping them to have the most fun birthday party they ever wanted! I will be here to ensure your party goes smoothly and every kid leaves The Jamii Hub happily. Ghader Bsmar, Birthday Party Staff Member FILL OUT THE BOOKING FORM ART BIRTHDAY PARTY POLICY A $250 deposit plus the full booking amount is required to secure your reservation. Party participants must be 3 years or older. Cancellations made up to 5 business days before the event will receive a full refund. No refunds will be issued after this time. Parents are responsible for cleaning up any food, beverages, and additional decor they bring to the party. Booking Form Booking Form First Name Last Name Email Phone Date of your party (1st option) * required Back up date - 2nd option (in case the space is not available on the first date) * required Do you have a preferred 2-hour time window for your party? If your preference varies based on the date, please provide two different time windows and specify the dates Art activity choice Choose an option Any extra fun options? Photo booth with one printed photo for each child (Free!) Movie screening with popcorn (2 hours of extra fun for $200) Number of kids Number of adults Age range of children Are you bringing outiside catering? * Yes No Please include food details below Will you have any extras at the party such as performers? * Yes No Please include extras below If you have any accessibility needs that you want us to be aware of in order to use The Jamii Hub for your party, please answer the question above. Any information given regarding personal access requirements will be used to ensure accessibility. While we strive to accommodate all accessibility needs, we cannot guarantee that every request will be fulfilled. However, we are committed to doing our utmost to meet your requirements and make the necessary arrangements. In the event that we are unable to accommodate your accessibility needs, we will contact you via email to discuss alternative options or solutions. All information will be kept confidential. Please feel free to email info@jamii.ca if you have any questions. Do you have any access requirements or allergies you would like us to be aware of? Submit I was so happy to celebrate my birthday with my friends! We painted and all of us enjoyed their paintings at the end. Zelia, 8 years old FAQ Birthday Parties Where is The Jamii Hub located? The Jamii Hub is located at 264 The Esplanade. The closest intersection is Parliament & Front St. Is the space wheelchair accessible? The space is wheelchair accessible. Is there parking? You may find paid street parking on Berkeley Street, Front Street, or Scadding Ave. The closest Green P parking lot is located in the Distillery District just one block east on Parliament. How can we get to The Jamii Hub via TTC? Option 1: The closest subway station is King station. From there, take a short streetcar ride on #504 or #503: Get off at Ontario St and walk south to The Esplanade Option 2: Bus #121: Get off at Princess St & The Esplanade, the venue is just around the block Option 3: Bus #75: Get off at Sherbourne and The Esplanade, then walk one block east As a parent, do I stay or do I go? Option for parents to accompany or drop off/pick up their kids. Are there washrooms? There are two gender-specific, multi-stall washrooms available in the building. Can we get to The Jamii Hub by biking? Bike Rakes: On the north side of The Esplanade around Berkeley Cafe at 262 The Esplanade. BikeShare: There are several BikeShare stations closeby: Princess & Front, Scadding & Sherbourne, Parliament & Mill. I would like to learn more about Jamii. Where do I go? Please visit www.jamii.ca to learn more about us. I would like to contact Jamii. How do I reach out? Please send us an email at info@jamii.ca I would like to subscribe to Jamii's e-newsletter to get updates about The Jamii Hub and the community. Where do I go? Please visit www.jamii.ca/subscribe to subscribe our e-newsletter. "The Jamii Hub" is a creative space where Esplanadians share agency over the multidisciplinary artistic interventions and our collective storytelling. Gratitude to the Canada Council for the Arts for making this endeavor possible.

Artist Spotlight & Toronto Visit Darwin Peters Fall 2022 In September 2022, we welcomed artist Darwin Peters in our community (The Esplanade, downtown Toronto) for one week. During that time, not only we exposed Darwin's work to our community and supported the sale of his paintings, but we also showed him parts of Toronto and especially realized a dream of his, which was to see a Morrisseau painting live (we visited both the AGO and to the City Hall). When we later traveled to Pikangikum, we were privileged to film artist Darwin Peters in his painting studio and we were honoured that Darwin shared his story with us - which is first a sign of mutual trust and respect. He was grateful for the opportunity to share with the world his love for painting and how it saved his life. This project is a part of Ontario Culture Days, supported by Ontario Arts Council and RBC. Filmed and Edited by Isorine Marc - Additional Editing by Iris Unlu In Darwin’s words (video transcript): I've been into art for 16 years already and I just want to keep going with it because I love painting on canvas. Artists can make their dreams become a reality. Just telling them to keep following their dreams. Never give up. Whenever I go like this with my brush, like creating an X after I paint the background and I stare at the canvas and just sit there for a couple of minutes staring at it and I capture that image and I quickly draw it in there whenever I look at one color and then I bring that color onto the canvas. My favorite part is outlining. Sometimes, when I look at a painting with just colors on them, I say to myself that painting is garbage now. Then after the outlining, it turns out beautifully. I started painting in 2006 when I lost my closest cousin. That's when I started to draw and paint. And then when I didn't have anything to do, I wanted to take my own life because it wasn't the same without him. And then, when I was in school, going back, dropping out a couple of times, Principal told me to keep painting because I will need it in the future. I barely got any supplies because I didn't have anything. Then I just kept on drawing on blank papers or anything that's blank. And then on 2011, July 14, I lost my sister due to a truck accident. Stopped painting for a year. Then in 2013 my wife told me to go back painting and she encouraged me to keep painting because it helps me focus on, focus on living and why I'm still here. Many times I was told to be a hockey player. But that wasn't my dream. My dream was to become a painter. Like Norval Morrisseau. I wanted to be like him, to share my art for people. My name is Darwin Peters And I'm from Pikangikum First Nation, Ontario. Photos by Isorine Marc

OUTDOOR EVENTS / JOY IN THE PARK: CELEBRATING CULTURES - 2024 Joy in the Park: Celebrating Cultures June 2024 David Crombie Park - Sherbourne St & The Esplanade Jamii's 6th Annual Multiculturalism Day Celebrations took place on Thursday, June 27th, in David Crombie Park, celebrating the rich mix of cultures within our neighborhood. 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. Supported by Artist Line-up: Live Music by Kune Face Painting by Linda Epp Henna by Noshin Hussain, Marketplace Artists: Amberlee King (paintings), Ana Figo (earrings), Ayami Terasawa (Mizuhiki craft), Steve Cornelsen (knife and cutlery), Carmen Chan (jewellery), May Yu (postcards), Mariana Hernandez (paintings), Eleshia Thomas (cards & jewellery), Sharon Zarita Adhiambo (craft), AfroMousse (Afro-print handmade goods), Liselle Yorke (ceramic & woodwork) PHOTO CREDITS

Jamii presents "Twox30" in Toronto's David Crombie Park! Join us at this outdoor contemporary dance/live art work by Michael Caldwell! Featuring Two x 30 Live at the Kisanii Hub In Partnership with From June 9th to 11th, Jamii presented "Two x 30", a series of duet performances that explore the inextricable link between our collective unconscious patterns of movement and our environment. Along with this series of movement-based performances, Aline Morales, Arlene Paculan and Michael Clarke offered audiences a musical treat. To explore further how we respond to our environment, including waterways, Linda Epp offered body painting that symbolizes water, while Sara Abusarar shared tales connected to water, and Cathy Thorne wrote poems that was delivered and gifted to audience members. Video and Edit by Recro Digital Marketing Photos by Jae Yang Credits Two x 30 Direction, Choreography and Concept: Michael Caldwell Sound Design and Original Composition: Robbie Grunwald Costume Design: Valerie Calam Performance and Choreographic Collaborators: Alana Elmer, Karen Kaeja, Benjamin Landsberg, David Norsworthy, Atri Nundy, Takako Segawa, Roberto Soria, Heidi Strauss, Irma Villafuerte Production Collaborators: Laura Cournoyea, Helin Gungoren Producer: Mateo Galindo Torres Kisanii Hub Organized by Jamii Team: Isorine Marc, Iris Unlu, Afnan Yakot, Yusra Yacout, Nadifa Daud Mohamed, Maysam Ghani Host: Monica Garrido Live Performer: Arlene Paculan & Zaynab Wilson Live Performer: Michael Clarke Live Performer: Aline Morales Typewriter Poet: Cathy Thorne from Everyday People Typewriter Poems Storytellers: Djennie Laguerre and Sarah Abusarar Face Painter: Linda Epp Event Photographer: Jae Yang Event Videographer: Recro Digital Marketing Stage Manager: Julia Beaulieu Michael Caldwell, Twox30 Michael Caldwell is a Toronto-based choreographer, performer, curator, director, producer, and arts advocate. He has performed/collaborated with over 50 of Canada's esteemed performance creators/companies, performing across North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia, earning two (2) Dora Mavor Moore Awards for outstanding performance in dance. Read more Mateo Galindo Torres, Twox30 Mateo Galindo Torres (GUETCHA GUARITCHA) is a Colombian-Canadian multidisciplinary dance artist, producer, actor and performer based in Toronto. Read more Zaynab Wilson, Musician Anchored in rhythm, melody, and matters of the psyche, Zaynab plays with her dynamic range of musicality and transmutes stories into songs that “quietens your spirit.” The Montréal-born artist sculpts a soundscape that binds the intrinsic Afro-Caribbean rhythms developed in her childhood performance years and the heart-driven, improvisational song styles of Jazz and Soul music. @zaynabwilsonmusic Djennie Laguerre, Storyteller Actor, Author, and Storyteller is a graduate of the Stella Adler Acting Conservatory (New York) and the University of Ottawa (BAC in Art; Theatre and Literature). She has been acclaimed as the performer and author of Manman la mer at Théâtre la Catapulte. She is the author and performer of Rendez-Vous with Home/Lakay at the SummerWorks Festival, 2008, and at the Théâtre français de Toronto, 2010 also presented in several storytelling festivals such as Les contes nomades (NAC) and Le Festival du loup de Lafontaine et Festival Les vieux m'ont conté. She as won the best Actress Prix Rideau Award for her performance in Manman la mer. She received the Spotlight Award at the SummerWorks Festival in 2008 for Rendez-Vous with Home. She is a Dora Awards nominee for "Outstanding Performance - Individual" Rendez-Vous with Home 2020, for "Outstanding Performance - Individual" for Les Zinspirés, and "Outstanding Performance - Ensemble”. Also, nomination for "Best Actress" at the METAs Awards 2018 for Rendez-vous Home/ Lakay. Your children know her as the storyteller and dancer Madame Bonheur at MiniTFO/CBC. Robbie Grunwald, Twox30 Robbie Grunwald is an independent producer, multi-instrumentalist, and composer. Based in Toronto, he has performed across the globe with artists including Donovan Woods, Jill Barber, Rose Cousins, Doug Paisley, and the Good Lovelies. Robbie has contributed original compositions for contemporary dance by choreographers Tina Fushell, Mairead Filgate, and Meredith Thompson, original scores for films by Mike Vass, and scored the feature documentary Open Shadow - The story of Teal Swan by film maker Paola Marina. Read more Monica Garrido, Host Monica Garrido (she/her) is a Mexican born Toronto based Queer Artist. Her short films have premiered at the Inside Out LGBT Film Festival. Her first solo show “The Cunning Linguist” won the 2016 Queer Acts Audience Award and was recently adapted as an Audio Show for Aluna Theatre’s Studio Series. She’s part of the ensemble of the Canadian Comedy Award winning show Sketch Comedy Extravaganza Eleganza. Winner of the 2018 Queer Emerging Artist Award at Buddies in Bad Times Theatre. She is one of the writers of a new sketch show for OMNI TV "Abroad". She is one third of a Latinx Drag King “Boyband the Boyband", currently she Co-hosts/Co- Produces Aluna Theatre’s “Radio Aluna Theatre”. She is also a Taurus and wishes you the best. @monicagarridoh Michael Clarke, Musician Michael grew up and started his performance career in Toronto doing theatre, film & television and live music. He's spent the last 5 years on Vancouver Island developing two solo theatre shows ('Soul King Solo, A Concert Tribute to Sam Cooke' & 'The Journey' a biographic piece featuring his life experiences and the original music they inspired him to create). While on Vancouver Island his live music performance went through an evolution into a one man band which he calls 'The Michael Clarke Experience' where he showcases his multi instrumental talents. With the aid of his looper he lays down rhythm guitar, bass and drums of popular songs creating a musical floor where he can dance over with his saxophone, solo guitar and voice. Cathy Thorne, Typewriter Poet Cathy Thorne loves poetry, people and old-school typewriters - and she has found the perfect way to combine all three! She writes on-the-spot personalized poems at in-person and virtual events, creating wonderful keepsakes for your guests. She also hosts engaging poetry-writing workshops, passing along her best tips and tricks so that everyone leaves workshops with a poem they’ve created themselves. She is a cartoonist with a background in improvisational theatre, creative writing and visual arts, and she is able to quickly connect with guests at your event to write heartfelt, spirit-boosting (and sometimes cheeky) poems for them. @everydaypeopletypewriterpoems Valerie Calam, Twox30 Valerie Calam is a Toronto-based artist interested in finding pathways to refresh and support herself. She works with sound, movement, fabric, patterns, the nervous system, and the body. Read more Arlene Paculan, Musician Arlene is an award-winning singer-songwriter from Mississauga. She has enchanted crowds across Canada, UK, Europe and the US since 2010. Arlene is also Executive Producer of Let's Make Good Productions, which is an artist and event promotion company with a goal to spread empowerment through original art. She is the host of her own TV show, Striving Artist, which is aired on Filipino TV. Past performances include: Rock the Coliseum, JUNO Fest (London), Aeolian Hall, Living Arts Centre, The Rose Theatre, tedX Mississauga, Meadowvale Theatre, Sound of Music Club Series, Paisley Arts Festival (Scotland). @arleneofficialmusic Sarah Abusarar, Storyteller Sarah comes from a long line of storytellers on her paternal side. She tells stories to both adults and children. Sarah has told stories both nationally and internationally at festivals in Canada, United Arab Emirates, Bosnia and Croatia. Because, Sarah, grew up in several countries she tells stories from all over the world with the focus on Palestinian and Croatian stories where her roots lie. Her favorite stories are ones that promote social change. She teaches a course through the Storytelling School of Toronto called "Storytelling as a Tool for Social Transformation using Kalila wa Dimna fables". Sarah has also used stories in a therapeutic way with children in refugee camps and refugee children in Toronto, as part of their therapy. She works at the Parent Child Mother Goose Program using traditional storytelling to encourage parent child bonding. Sarah, tells stories so that she may go deep inside of the tales and find herself in far away magical places, that she remembers, from long, long ago. @sarahabusarar Linda Epp, Face Painter Linda is a face painter for approximately 10 years. Her story with face painting began with her two children went out for Halloween one year when they were quite young. She went and bought some terrible (non FDA approved) paint at the dollar store and thought she could magically transform them. She later figured out that it didn’t quite work out that way, but she fell in love with the art of face painting. She has since honed her skills with workshops and many hours of practice. Linda has worked with many organizations such as the St. Lawrence BIA, Jamii, long term care facilities, local festivals and private birthday parties. She states that she loves what she does and there is nothing better than putting a huge smile on a child’s face!

Jamii relies on the support of the community to bring enriching programming to all Esplanadians. 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 $100 Monthly Since 2011, Jamii has been fostering connections among Esplanadians, a diverse community of individuals spanning all ages who reside, work, study, and walk on The Esplanade. Through immersive artistic experiences, we breathe life into public spaces within The Esplanade neighbourhood and our home, The Jamii Hub, crafting whimsical environments that not only cultivate shared memories among our community members but also strengthen the social bonds woven throughout our neighbourhood's fabric. Jamii, a charitable organization, is the proud recipient of the 2020 Community Arts Award, awarded by the Toronto Arts Foundation. Charitable Registration Number: 803873207RR0001

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Kseniya Tsoy Artist website Kseniya Tsoy is a Toronto-based community-engaged artist based and a recipient of Newcomer Arts Award from Toronto Arts Foundation. Her passion is in community building through arts and creativity and she might be best known for her whimsical and colourful murals that inspire joy. << BACK TO ARTISTS

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

As part of the Toronto Waterfront Marathon, Jamii organizes a Cheering Section in Berczy Park where families cheer on all runners. Along with the cheering section, we organize a Family Fun Run to encourage young ones to be physically active. MARATHON Jamii's Fundraiser Every October since 2017, Jamii had a cheering site as part of the Toronto Waterfront Marathon in the St Lawrence Neighbourhood. Starting from 2024, we are taking it to a next level by taking a part in the Charity Challenge of the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon: We are running, walking or strolling the marathon with our community! JAMII'S 2025 CHAMPIONS Raised: $10,423.76 Goal: $7,500 %139 Your efforts in supporting Jamii and our runners will directly impact you and your community! By reaching our shared goal of $7.5k, we will be able to sustain and bring more free arts programs. Your dollars will make a difference in LAINI Youth programs for girls and young women, Belonging Workshops for older adults, Indoor Activities & Workshops for all, and Outdoor Events in David Crombie Park. Every dollar raised will enable our capacity to continue our community work and engage in programming for Esplanadians of all ages, abilities, and income levels. Join in, support one of our champions and make a difference today! HAMOON YOUSEFZADEH Goal: $2,000 Raised: $2,991.34 SUPPORT NOW AFNAN YAKOT Goal: $1,000 Raised: $535.97 SUPPORT NOW MALCOLM RAMSAY Goal: $368.54 Raised: $318.54 SUPPORT NOW ISORINE MARC Goal: $2,500 Raised: $2,435.63 SUPPORT NOW MICHAEL LIN Goal: $550 Raised: $500 SUPPORT NOW ALEX RICE Goal: $1,000 Raised: $266.85 SUPPORT NOW IRIS and OMELETTE Goal: $1,500 Raised: $1,635.64 SUPPORT NOW ARUN JAIN Goal: $500 Raised: $380.51 SUPPORT NOW MEERA JAIN Goal: $500 Raised: $184.37 SUPPORT NOW KOLPONA MOOKERJEA Goal: $800 Raised: $577.52 SUPPORT NOW LAURIE STEVENSON Goal: $500 Raised: $340.32 SUPPORT NOW SIGN UP & SHOW UP Start by registering for the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon by using this link and selecting Jamii as your charity. Choose your race: 5K, half marathon, full marathon, or virtual. Then create your fundraising page. You can join an existing team or start your own to support a specific Jamii program. Once you're in, we’ll be here to support you along the way. BONUS: Raise $300 or more and Jamii will reimburse your registration fee. RAISE & RALLY Your individual fundraising goal is $1,000. With 30 or more participants, we’re aiming to raise $30,000 for Jamii’s free arts programs. Share your story, invite your network to support you, and use your page to track progress. We’ll provide tools, templates, and encouragement to help you along the way. You’re not fundraising alone! TRAIN & SUSTAIN MOVE & GROOVE Training is up to you, but you won’t be on your own. Jamii will organize casual group walks for 5K participants and help connect runners who want to form pace groups. We’ll send occasional check-ins, updates, and motivation to keep you moving. Whether you're walking, jogging, or going the distance, we’re here to keep you going. Race weekend is October 18–19, 2025. Put on your Jamii team shirt and move at your own pace. Walk it, run it, roll it, or stroll it. Join the 5K group walk or coordinate with others in your category. Expect cheers, connection, and a shared sense of purpose. You’ll be part of something real, something community-driven, and something worth showing up for. SIGN UP NOW CHECK OUT PREVIOUS TORONTO WATERFRONT MARATHON'S CHEERING SECTIONS! 2024 Toronto Waterfront Marathon Fundraising SEE MORE 2018 Toronto Waterfront Marathon Cheering Site SEE MORE 2023 Toronto Waterfront Marathon Cheering Site SEE MORE 2017 Toronto Waterfront Marathon Cheering Site SEE MORE 2022 Toronto Waterfront Marathon Cheering Site SEE MORE 2016 Toronto Waterfront Marathon Cheering Site SEE MORE 2019 Toronto Waterfront Marathon Cheering Site SEE MORE

Winter 2024 Community Projects/ Photo Exhibits/ WHAT WE REMEMBER WHAT WE REMEMBER Winter 2024 Winter 2024 Exhibited outside of The Jamii Hub at The Esplanade & Berkeley St “What we remember” a photographic journey through memory, connection, and the shared experiences that weave together an arts organization like Jamii. Conceived in 2023, this exhibition began as an invitation to nine artists, community leaders, and thinkers who have walked with Jamii from its inception in 2011 or joined in more recent collaborations. Their reflections are part of Jamii’s exploration within the Metcalf Foundation’s Staging Change think tank, which asked how we might unearth and celebrate the cultural and institutional memories that anchor us to a place, a group of people, a community. Through this invitation,“What we remember” evolved into an exhibition that not only preserves memories but also explores the nature of memory itself. How do we remember? How do memories shape stories? And how does Jamii, as an arts organization based in community, become the living archive of its people’s recollections? In selecting images from over a decade of artistic engagement and sharing their written reflection, “What we remember” showcases the memories and stories of Sarah N Ahmad, Usha James, Sabrine S Hakam, Sharon Zarita Adhiambo, Nova Bhattacharya, David Danzon, Zoie Edwards (Browne), Georgia Reynolds, and Isorine Marc. Each of them offers a unique glimpse into what they remember, how they interpret their experiences, and the narrative they choose to share. As you view this exhibition, we invite you to ask yourself what do you remember? How does memory shape your connection to Jamii and your community? How does memory look, feel, and transform when shared with others? Each story that we share is a piece of the puzzle that together forms our Jamiified journey on The Esplanade. Unveiled on Sunday, December 1, 2024 On display from December 2024 to July 2025 CREDITS Producer: Jamii Contributors: David Danzon, Georgia Reynolds, Nova Bhattacharya, Sabrine S. Hakam, Sarah N. Ahmad, Sharon Zarita Adhiambo, Usha James, Zoie Edwards (Browne) Photographers: Gillian Mapp, Isorine Marc, Jae Yang, Laura Dittmann, Murphy Owusu, Robert Deleskie Artistic Director: Isorine Marc Art Director: Iris Unlu Graphic Designer: Jeeya Ghandi REFLECTIONS Les moutons, 2011 - Photo by Isorine Marc Sometimes all it takes is an invitation. By David Danzon Co-founder and Artistic Director of CORPUS One of the fondest Esplanade memories I have is managing to convince a resident - who was complaining about the noise from her balcony - to see a CORPUS performance up close in David Crombie park. The lady did and then also came back the following evening. Sometimes all it takes is an invitation. I grew up in Paris in the seventies. My playground was my street. I found freedom and independence there. Like The Esplanade, my neighborhood had a similar openness to let people gather outside the comfort of their home. In France there is a culture of street theatre, considered an art form in its own right. Countless festivals are dedicated to it. Their aim is to bring people together to celebrate life through the arts,; to re-invent the street, give it a twist, own it, make it a surprising destination even for its residents. Store fronts, high-risers, sidewalks, street lamps and crosswalks all become set designs for theatrical content. The whole neighborhood is involved. The street never looks the same after that. And the memory of that transformation is long-lasting. More importantly, it builds community. Jamii’ strength lies in its desire to keep growing and evolving. It doesn’t engage in navel gazing but strives to experiment with new ideas, new ways to connect people,. The community is thus regularly exposed to new artistic and social propositions and grows alongside Jamii. It is a wonderful symbiotic relationship. The culture of The Esplanade is blooming. To continue thriving, it needs to be celebrated and nurtured. This is where Jamii plays a key role. As for memory, it is only impactful - indeed only exists in the minds of a community -, if it is shared. There is no better place to create and share memories than in a tightly-woven, open and safe community. With continuing performances and various urban interventions and social gatherings, Jamii has created the foundations for long-lasting and meaningful memory. Forty-One, 2015 - Photo by Laura Dittmann Interweaving Generations of Explanadians together By Georgia Reynolds Empathy Champion and Jamii Founding Board Member The Esplanade is where I have spent a large part of my adult life and my entire motherhood experience. Jamii has supported me as an adult, woman and mother. It has shaped me through the years. Jamii gave me many opportunities to express myself when I have felt insecure, unclear, or unmotivated and space to consider other perspectives. I have been an audience member, participant, board member, and advisor. This variety has broadened my understanding of the community and helped me grow as an individual. Jamii's consistent, creative and adaptive ways of generating, facilitating, and anchoring memories have contributed to my sense of belonging. By creating collective memories, Jamii provides a sense of connection. During the pandemic, this was particularly valuable. Small gestures like eye contact with a familiar face during a neighbourhood walk reminded us that we were not alone physically or emotionally. By focusing on creating memories in the community, arts organizations will naturally be more responsive to those they serve. Blending the "keepers of the history" with those who hold the future ensures the longevity of an organization by providing continued engagement at all levels; attracting different employees, artists, participants, and even funding. Internally, institutional memory is essential to measure impact and maintain momentum. With a creative engine and growing and changing team members, the essence and heart can be lost. Decision-making can become complicated with competing priorities, and organizational motivation can be impacted by missing moments to celebrate and anchor. Like generational memory being passed down in families, there are also "generations" of Esplanadians where storytelling can be passed on. Discover Dance, 2022 - Photo by Jae Yang Dances of Connection Nova Bhattacharya Dancer, daughter, space shifter, community convener and Artistic Director of Nova Dance As a dancer, I am transfixed by the notion of memory in motion and how memories shape and reshape us. In Jamii’s world, we are shaped by connections through every breath, step, and story. Jamii embodies community care and storytelling; in their choreography we fulfill our purpose as a dance company. Our collaboration began in 2019, when we brought dancer Neena Jayarajan to David Crombie Park, sharing her artistry with over 100 people. Among them were the inspiring young women of the Laini initiative, whose courage and dreams—running for office and creating employment for others—embodied the power of art to nurture leadership. During the pandemic, Jamii’s work left an indelible mark on my consciousness. Amidst the chaos, Jamii was offering art as a community lifeline, connecting hearts and fostering a sense of shared humanity. The world stood still, yet art continued to flow, seeping through the digital crevices of social media. In 2022, we returned to the park, the first of our public performances since the pandemic. Being together, sharing rituals rooted in reverence for Mother Earth, invoking a realm where the personal and universal converge—was a powerful reminder of what we had been missing during extended lockdowns. Boundaries dissolved as shared moments fostered oneness, transforming personal experience into communal joy. In 2023, we performed three shows, each ending in a joyous dance party, nourishing us with audience energy and shared celebration. In the highlights reel of soul-nourishing experiences with this cherished organization, these are moments etched into my heart—moments that symbolize connection and transformation. Community practice and belief in the arts brought us together; community practice and the enduring power of the arts are the ever beating pulse of Jamii’s dance. Their choreography vibrates with generosity, inspired creativity, and, above all, a sense of belonging. This is particularly important now, as the neighbourhood is transforming and will welcome new Esplanadians. Jamii has the opportunity to interweave different generations together to ensure the sense of community The Esplanade is known for continues through this transformation. Power in Portraits Exhibit, 2022 - Photo by Jae Yang Networks and Nodes By Sabrine S. Hakam Visual artist and Postdoctoral Researcher Collective institutional memory is a repository of experiences and shared histories that connect a community through their interactions with an institution. Artists become embedded within this network of shared memory through the art we create and how it speaks to the community. By creating opportunities for social interaction and connection, artists alongside community members and stakeholders, become carriers of an organization’s collective memory. Through my artistic interventions with The Esplanade community, I have become embedded within the institutional memory of Jamii. My involvement with Jamii began in 2023, with the unveiling of my first portrait series, Postcolonialism 101 . Later on, I led and facilitated a photo exhibition with young women titled Calyx , and I also launched the Culture Cloths series. With each artistic intervention, I have fostered new social linkages and nurtured old ones, thereby becoming a stakeholder in the collective institutional memory of Jamii. Collective institutional memory is dependent upon the experiences of and connections between community members within and with an institution. These connections take the form of shared stories, traditions, and even physical artifacts that hold meaning for the organization. The ‘spatial’ quality of collective memory networks exists in the fact that shared experiences are anchored in physical space. Communities are granted the agency to decide how they wish to see their space transformed through art. By understanding and nurturing community linkages through the arts, institutions can maintain a sense of continuity and connection to their past, while also adapting and evolving to meet the challenges and opportunities of the present and future. This shared memory can therefore be better understood through a metaphor of networks and linkages. The role of the artist is to act as a new node within the network. The intersection of art and community through an organization such as Jamii strengthens collective institutional memory networks. Joy in the Park, 2024 - Photo by Jae Yang Memory as a Placemaker By Sarah N. Ahmad Urbanist, placemaker and public art consultant If I had to pick one, I would say that Jamii’s ability to create joyful and meaningful memories for local residents, partners and audiences is its most striking attribute. Jamii uses art to encourage the intentional practice of collective memory - through the innovative revisitation of previous works, Jamii not only creates a database of shared memories, but also brings people closer by making them reflect on their role in the creation of something special. In the spring of 2023, the Jamii team invited me to participate in a gathering entitled a ‘Garden of Influence’. I remember each participant was asked to share their name and relationship to Jamii. Right off, I loved that we were being asked to consider our relationship to the place! And because relationships are often built upon shared memories, one participant stated her name and shared that she was “once turned into a sheep by Jamii” – a comment that resulted in confused laughter but eventually revealed the deeply creative, albeit humorous, ways in which performance has been used to engage and captivate the community. In May of 2024, I was asked to be the Artistic Advisor on the ‘Pavilion’ exhibit in David Crombie park. The process once again enriched me both personally and professionally. Today, I walk by the once derelict and forgotten site of the exhibit and it brings back wonderful memories of making and sharing space for art and togetherness. These experiences have demonstrated to me that Jamii is a socio-spatial anchor for memory in The Esplanade community. Moreover, by co-creating artistic experiences with the local community, Jamii has established itself as an activator of place and belonging. Through Jamii’s incredible relationships with residents of The Esplanade, I have developed a deep respect for the ‘Jamiified’ way of practicing community arts and creating memories. Seeing Evergreen Exhibition, 2022 - Photo by Murphy Owusu Hyper-local, Legacy and Magic By Usha James Executive Director of The Critical Thinking Consortium I moved close to The Esplanade in November 2021. It was a tumultuous time in the world and in my personal life. I was also feeling challenged to help my non-profit organization navigate pressures related to world events. I walked along The Esplanade and came across the striking basketball court mural for the first time. After some digging, I was privileged to connect with Jamii and engage with young women who were creating the photo exhibit later titled “Seeing Evergreen”. Although I was mostly an observer, it was a transformative experience for me. In the face of feeling helpless and overwhelmed by huge challenges that felt impossible to impact, my introduction to Jamii encouraged me instead to engage meaningfully and joyfully in ways that were “hyper-local”. That commitment, and my ongoing connection with Jamii, has since enriched my life. Memory is an interesting construct. From what we know, memory does not live anywhere in particular in the brain, but is reconstituted every time we think of the past. It is influenced by how we feel in the moment that we are remembering. This is healthy and generative, but also worrisome if there are some legacies we hope are remembered accurately. Identifying, developing and documenting Jamii’s “thinking strategies” could be important in supporting institutional memory. They include the processes we use to make decisions, gather guidance and feedback from the community, or weigh possible options. Thinking strategies include routines that we engage in, templates that we use, strategies that we enact. Clearly articulating and housing these in places that are accessible to various parts of the organizational ecosystem can support individual and collective decision making and shared leadership. They are a small part of a rich legacy that Jamii creates with every new magical moment. Lemon Bucket Orchestra, 2014 - Photo by Laura Dittmann People, the treasures of Jamii By Sharon Zarita Adhiambo Founder Sekoya East Africa and International Arts Worker, Consultant and Leader I walked into Jamii in 2019 as the Outreach and Project Coordinator, straight from the Arts Administration and Cultural Management program from Humber Polytechnic. I had experience in community arts from Kenya and Jamii allowed me to succeed as an international arts worker by allowing me to take space in the organization. I realized quickly I wasn’t the only one whose value is magnified, Jamii as a community arts organization treasures its people - who they are, their skills and creative abilities, their needs and offerings. Staff, volunteers, artists, audiences, businesses, partners and community at large. It is impossible to have memories of Jamii without thinking of its people. Memories of people who walk in as community members with no artistic experience but work together to produce projects. Artists who share their talents generously not knowing someone in the audience will be impacted. Producers who transform local spaces to magnificent art stages. Memories of youth volunteers trusted to usher or assist in coordination then years later grow into production roles. People from minority groups creating, leading and showcasing work with a sense of belonging that is rare in the arts industry. Local businesses and organizations who become key partners of Jamii. Today Jamii basks in the fruits of a genuine and intentional people-centered arts leadership, curation and development. Jamii’s people have become the carriers of institutional memory, using previous experiences as a roadmap to guide the next person or project. Jamii will always have depth and impact because this kind of institutional memory doesn't fade. I come to Jamii now as an artist and audience member, each time marveling at the success it has had in transforming me, transforming us - its people. I am inspired to carry this value of people in my own artistic journey, passing on Jamii’s ripple effect. Grease Remake, 2014 - Photo by Laura Dittmann Straight Out Of Esplanade Zoie Edwards Raised by The Esplanade, cultivated by community I am passionate about people and community. I was raised by The Esplanade, playing and riding bikes through the neighbourhood from day to night. I remember a sense of freedom and joy that has led to lasting connections and friends who are family. Community is about connections, and Jamii is the thread that welcomes those connections to be formed. I have participated in many Jamii projects, worked as a Project Coordinator, and now have a role as a Board member. I am humbled by how deeply Jamii means community and the impact it has played in all aspects of my life. I love to see the park animated by Jamii projects and neighbours enjoying the community together. I am grateful for the shared stories and experiences that people are invited to enjoy through Jamii. I will never forget the nerves of uncertainty and optimistic excitement I felt starting my first Jamii project process, and the joy and confidence I felt at the end when the creation was shared with others. Engaging with Jamii broadened my thinking and stretched spiritual muscles I didn’t know existed. Working together with artists and neighbours to co-create is like a bridge Jamii welcomes, giving people a unique opportunity for togetherness. The shared experience, trust built through the process and connection to something greater than yourself is nourishment for the soul. I truly believe that The Esplanade and Jamii have a big part in shaping the person, wife, sister, neighbour, aunt, mother, and professional engagement consultant that I am. Collectively, Jamii and the community have shaped my heart, and this is because of the community spirit, art, and collective experiences enjoyed with others. My heART is forever with Jamii and The Esplanade.

Jamii is pleased to welcome Kuné, a music band of ten immigrant musicians from all over the world, to The Esplanade, Toronto! Live at the Kisanii Hub Featuring "Kuné" In Partnership with October 27 and October 28, 2022 David Crombie Park | The Esplanade & Berkeley St In October 2022, Jamii presented KUNÉ ("together" in Esperanto), an eleven-piece collective made up of ten immigrant musicians from all over the world and one Metis-Canadian. KUNE’s artistic practice captures and recreates the experience of living in Toronto, one of the world's most diverse cities. Along with the performances by Kuné, Esplanadian percussionists from our community joined Kuné! These community members were participants in a series of percussion workshops led by Aline Morales, Matias Recharte, and Tara Moneka for 3 weeks. Credits Kuné: Aline Morales, Alyssa Delbare-Sawchuk, Demetri Petsalakis, Matias Recharte, Paco Luviano, Padideh Ahrarnejad, Selcuk Suna, Tara Moneka Stilt Walker: Miss Coco Murray and community members of The Esplanade to join Kuné with their drums! Organized by Jamii Team: Afnan Yakot, Iris Unlu, Isorine Marc, Jonelle Sills, Nadifa Daud Mohamed, Yusra Yacout Event Videographer: Eray Guler Event Photographer: Laura Dittman Photos by Laura Dittman Kuné, Music Band KUNÉ is an eleven-piece collective made up of ten immigrant musicians from all over the world and one metis-Canadian. KUNE’s artistic practice captures and recreates the experience of living in Toronto, one of the world's most diverse cities. The musicians are from places like Iraq, Cuba, Peru, Burkina-Faso and China. The instruments they play are not often played together on stage; like the Tar, the Dizi, the Cajon and the Ngoni. It is a space in which to remember where we came from and learn from each other’s differences. Together KUNE members compose, arrange and perform music that honors their cultural roots and creates connections with others through curiosity, experimentation and dialogue. Check out Kuné on Instagram Miss Coco Murray, Stilt Walker Miss Coco Murray is an award-winning social entrepreneur, cultural arts programmer, arts educator, mentor, instructor, and writer in the dance sector. Murray's work in education and community settings centers on cultural education, the African diaspora and culturally-responsive arts programming under this mobile, dance education business. Check out Miss Coco on Instagram

Remarkable things are made by remarkable people. Check out Jamii's leadership team & the baord of directors! Our Team of Community Enhancers LEADERSHIP TEAM BOARD OF DIRECTORS LeadershipTeam Leadership Team Jamii's Mission-Based ISORINE MARC ALCHEMIST & FOUNDER Isorine obtained her Masters Degree in Performing Arts Management in France and has acquired international work experience in arts organizations such as The Paris Conservatoire (France), L’École des Sables (Toubab Dialaw, Senegal), Le Centre National Chorégraphique Mathilde Monnier (France), Ausdance Queensland (Brisbane, Australia), and fFIDA-TIDF 06 (Toronto). Isorine was CORPUS' Artistic Producer from 2006 to 2018 and founded Jamii in 2011. The Esplanade neighbourhood is Isorine's home since 2006 and she is a passionate advocate for her community. OMELETTE BARKER Omelette was raised in The Esplanade neighbourhood where her natural talent for loudness led her to a passion for barketing. Omelette studied wolves via distance education (internet videos) to get an advanced degree in Howling Honours. Omelette joined Jamii as a Barker in 2023 where she lends her artistic noise to attract the community to Jamii events and The Jamii Hub. Although she volunteers at Jamii, Omelette is a working breed, which means community members can ask her to show them a trick anytime when they see her. OMELETTE'S WORK HOURS: Tue & Thur from 8:30am to 4:30pm IRIS UNLU AMPLIFIER Iris has been working in marketing for a decade, in both Turkey and Canada. Before discovering her passion for creating ideas that have a profound influence on people, Iris completed her Bachelor’s degree in Geological Engineering in Turkey and later received a diploma from Sheridan College in Advertising and Marketing Communications in Canada. Iris was thrilled to get an opportunity to engage in community-based work when she joined Jamii in 2021 as a Graphic Designer and became Jamii’s Amplifier in May 2022. Iris is excited to continue engaging with the Esplanade, especially as she has been a proud Esplanadian since 2020. YUSRA YACOUT ENABLER Yusra Yacout is born and raised in the Esplanade community. Yusra Supports Jamii's administrative operations and is a certified Law Clerk. She also has a bachelor of Arts from Ryerson university in child and Youth care. Yusra has a wide experience ingrained in the community. Through the years, she has been a Project Coordinator with Jamii (Summer 2019), a children’s program leader with Kiwanis boats and girls (2017-2018), a caseworker with Aspire Muslim food bank, and early childhood assistant with the St Lawrence Daycare. CAREERS BoardOfDirectors Board of Directors Jamii's Dedicated DAVID CROMBIE ADVISORY BOARD MEMBER David Crombie, born in Swansea, began his career as a lecturer in politics and urban affairs at Ryerson in the 1960s. Crombie served as the 56th Mayor of Toronto from 1972 to 1978, where he played a pivotal role in shaping the city’s landscape. One of his significant achievements as mayor was the development of The Esplanade neighbourhood in the St. Lawrence area, which stands as a testament to his vision for community-focused urban planning. After his time as mayor, Crombie was elected to Parliament as a member of the Progressive Conservative Party. He held several key cabinet positions, including Minister of National Health and Welfare (1979-1980), Minister of Indian Affairs and Northern Development (1984-1986), and Secretary of State for Canada (1986-1988). Crombie’s contributions to Toronto and Canada have left a lasting impact, particularly in urban development and community building. HAMOON YOUSEFZADEH DIRECTOR Hamoon Yousefzadeh is a risk professional currently working at Scotiabank. He grew up and attended school in Scarborough and now resides in downtown Toronto, living nearby The Esplanade community. Hamoon was introduced to the world of arts through the inspiring work of his wife, Sabrine S. Hakam, who works with the Jamii community as an academic researcher and artist. In his spare time, Hamoon enjoys running, climbing, and traveling. USHA JAMES DIRECTOR Usha James is the Executive Director of The Critical Thinking Consortium, a Canadian not-for-profit organization dedicated to nurturing critical thinking in educational spaces. She has been a secondary school teacher and an instructor at OISE at the University of Toronto. Usha has worked extensively with leaders to help them nurture thinking organizations, supporting their strategic planning and building capacity in leadership teams to think critically about their practice. She moved close to The Esplanade community in Nov 2021 and was immediately drawn in by Jamii’s work. It has been a nurturing source of light and warmth and magic and she’s thrilled to be able to contribute to the board. PENELOPE CHANDLER DIRECTOR Experienced Risk Management professional, who works at TD Bank, and also volunteers in her spare time as one of their TD Ready Commitment Ambassadors for over 5 years. Penelope is passionate about giving back to the communities that TD serves, and have been engaged and continue to support various philanthropy initiatives for over a decade, supporting Immigrant community services, local high schools, United Way, JDRF , TD Tree Days, to name a few. Penelope was inspired by the initiatives that Jamii has committed to support within its community, and is happy to be part of the board of directors to support with maintaining the initiatives it provides. AMANDA MARAGOS DIRECTOR - PRESIDENT Amanda Maragos is the Director of Client Services and Volunteer Programs for Philip Aziz Centre and Emily's House Hospices. A member of the Esplanade/St Lawrence Community for about 40 years, she embraces this diverse, artistic and friendly neighbourhood where she lives with her family. With hopes to balance creativity, leadership, flexibility, accountability and openness; her goal is to contribute something good and lasting to Jamii's vision for the Esplanade/St. Lawrence Neighbourhood - a special place she calls home. LINDA LEISTNER DIRECTOR Linda is a neighbourhood business owner who personally knows and understands the importance of community engagement. Linda has often volunteered with Jamii, and her business, The Berkeley Castle, has been a supporter of Jamii since inception. In 2017, Jamii welcomed Linda to the board. VANESSA BÉGIN-HENDERSON DIRECTOR Vanessa Bégin is an Enterprise Relations Manager at OpenTable, consulting with Canada’s largest restaurant groups on operational efficiency, marketing strategies, and reputation management. She has strong leadership experience and a passion for team optimization. A resident of the Esplanade community for over 15 years, she is devoted to her work with Jamii in support of their mandate to foster neighborhood engagement through the arts, with a deeply inclusive spirit. Outside of work, she is a proud mom and dog-mom, an avid traveler, and a huge fan of the performing arts. AZIZA VIRANI DIRECTOR - TREASURER Aziza Virani is a higher education program manager focused on school-to-work transitions and international scholarships. Aziza holds a Masters degree in Education from the University of Toronto, and a Bachelors degree in Sociology and Spanish from McGill University. Aziza has over 15 years of experience in various aspects of education and learning, including coaching, teaching, workshop facilitation, program coordination, and administration. A passion for travel has led to a fluency in 2 additional languages - French and Spanish - and international lived experience abroad. Aziza works to help others craft their own paths with tools that are already their own. She values strong leadership, creativity, and life-long learning. SHARON MCMILLAN DIRECTOR A founding member of the Congress for the New Urbanism (Ontario Chapter) and a current Director of Communications in the Education Sector, Sharon McMillan has been an advocate for accessible, equitable and sustainable urban living for over 20 years. Inspired by the diverse and inclusive Esplanade community, Sharon moved her family here in 2014 and sought a way to contribute to the vitality of this neighbourhood. She soon became President of the St. Lawrence Neighbourhood Association and now looks forward to continuing to help empower and amplify the voices and aspirations of residents. ZOIE EDWARDS DIRECTOR - SECRETARY Zoie Edwards has a Bachelor’s of Urban & Regional Planning from Ryerson University and a Master’s of Public Administration from The University of Western Ontario where she completed a MRP on “The Revitalization of Social Housing: An Analysis of Mixed-Income Housing in the City of Toronto”. From 2013 to 2017, Zoie was the Project Coordinator for Jamii and CORPUS working on various art-based community engaged projects and events in The Esplanade,Toronto. Since 2018, Zoie is Project Manager at Lura Consulting.

Jamii is building a bridge between The Esplanade and Japan Live at the Kisanii Hub Featuring "Echoes" In Partnership with Our community was invited for an array of arts events to honour Japanese culture on The Esplanade! Jamii has developed a cultural experience curated by the Jamii team and the Japanese community in the Esplanade, to invite Esplanadians to explore different aspects of Japanese culture. "Live at the Kisanii Hub featuring Echoes” was an invitation to pause and reflect on the sacrifices of generations before us through captivating live performances, origami and calligraphy workshops, in addition to a movie screening of a film provided by the Japan Foundation . Through this series of events, we invited our community members to be part of the butterfly effect: as you know, the smallest flutter of a butterfly’s wing can ripple around the world to effect global change. As part of this series of events, Jamii has committed to make 1,000 origami cranes , which are a symbol of hope and a sign of friendship between the Esplanade community and a community in Japan. Esplanadians joined us and made a few of the 1000 cranes, which were later sent to Japan in commemoration of the 77th year of the Atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Video by Recro Digital Marketing Video by Recro Digital Marketing LIVE PERFORMANCE OF "ECHOES" From July 28 to July 30, 2022 David Crombie Park | The Esplanade & Princess St Vibrations from Japan to The Esplanade: Jamii was proud to welcome " Echoes" , a dance production directed by Takako Segawa. This dance piece is inspired from the theory that even the smallest flutter of a butterfly’s wing ripples around the world to effect global change. In addition to exploring themes of migration, " Echoes " pays tribute to the Japanese experience of internment camps in Canada. The dance piece is performed by Takako Segawa, Noriko Hashimoto, Yurika Murakami and Tomomi Sakajiri . Along with the dance piece of Echoes, The Kisanii Hub also featured live music by Linda Caplan, Japanese calligraphy with Yukako Ichiki, brush ink painting with Hiroshi Yamamoto, and origami at the event. Linda Kakō Caplan , Canada’s premier koto artist, is a Tobiume Tsukasa Dai Shihan (Grandmaster) from Japan’s Chikushikai Koto and Shamisen School. Her repertoire ranges from Japanese classical pieces to folk to contemporary works. www.lindacaplan.com Yukako Ichiki is a master calligraphy artist and has won many competitions in Canada. Award-winning artist Hiroshi Yamamoto graduated Kyoto Industrial Design Institute and Kyoto Japanese Art School, and studied under Mr. Rokuro Yamamoto, a specialist in Nihonga. Hiroshi had over 20 individual exhibitions, in both Japan and Canada. https://www.hiroshiyamamoto.com/ It was a true honor for Jamii to welcome such talented artists in our community and through their work, create invisible bridges between cultures. Photos by Laura Dittman In this short video below, Japanese Canadian dancer Takako Segawa pays tribute to her fellow countymen from 1942. Like many of them from Japan, she absorbed 'sho ga nai' from the motherland--a blend of stoicism and practicality that means, "It is what it is. Get on with it." In this dance, Takako channels the spirits of these ancestors, acknolwedges their troubles, and in her own way, bestows healing. 1,000 ORIGAMI CRANES IN THE MAKING From July 18 to July 27, 2022 Jamii's Home | 250 The Esplanade, Unit 105 "Senba-zuru" in Japanese tradition is a set of a thousand origami cranes strung together with a thread. The crane is symbolic of happiness and a long life, and the wings are believed to provide protection. Strings of 1,000 origami cranes are often given to people suffering from illness or injury as a way of bringing them back to health Senba-zuru has become a symbol of peace after the story of Sadako Sasaki , a two-year-old Hiroshima resident who was exposed to dangerous amounts of atomic radiation in WWII. When she was 12, she began folding 1000 paper cranes wishing for recovery from leukemia as a result of being exposed to the atomic radiation. The Peace Memorial Park in Hiroshima commemorates Sadako with a statue of her holding a crane. Many strings of 1,000 origami cranes are strung up around the park and at other significant sites in Japan as a gesture of peace, good fortune, and healing. The Jamii community is inviting you to take part in the creation of Senba-suru during a series of drop-in origami sessions . Each crane we string together a symbol of our community coming together, and honouring the August 6, 2022 commemoration of the 77th year of Atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. No registration needed, come to Jamii's Home at 250 The Esplanade #105 (By the three at the courtyard of Berkeley Castle) any time within the time frames below. Photo Credit: Envato Photos by Isorine Marc MOVIE SCREENING: "DAD'S LUNCH BOX" "Papa no obento wa sekaiichi" July 27, 2022 Jamii's Home | 250 The Esplanade, Unit 105 In Partnership with This film was inspired by a real-life story of a Japanese father, who prepared bento lunch boxes for his daughter every single day during her time in high school. This leads to delicious, interesting or offbeat creations. The film showcases the bond between father and daughter as he put an effort into equipping his daughter with more than just sustenance for school. Directed by FUKATSU Masakazu Cast WATANABE Toshimi - Dad TAKEDA Rena - Midori Staff ONO Toshitsugu - Screenplay OKOZYO - Cinematography Production Company "DAD'S LUNCH BOX" Film Partners Distributor (Japan) PONY CANYON Official Site http://papaben-movie.com Film Festival, Award 2017 San Sebastian International Film Festival, Culinary Zinema 2017 Silk Road International Film Festival, Japan Film Week Photo Credit: IMDB JAPANESE CALLIGRAPHY WORKSHOP with Yukako Ichiki July 20, 2022 Jamii's Home | 250 The Esplanade, Unit 105 As a part of a series of lead-up events to the live dance performances of "Echoes", Jamii offered community members the chance to engage with Japanese calligraphy – an art form that celebrates the beauty of the Japanese language led by the talented Yukako Ichiki. A group of 16 joined us to learn about the significance of a variety of Japanese characters as each brush stroke tells a story.

The Jamii Hub is home to Culture Cloths, a series of exhibits that explore the uniqueness and importance of cloths, fabrics, and prints across different cultures! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / TUESDAY DISCOVERING / Culture Cloths DISCOVERING Tuesday 7 pm Culture Cloths WHEN | Second Tuesday of each C ycle from 7pm to 8:30pm (Check upcoming dates below) WHERE | The Jamii Hub @ 264 The Esplanade AGE GROUP | 16+ FREE ADMISSION | REGISTRATION REQUIRED | NO PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE NEEDED Whether we wrap ourselves in them, wear them or display them proudly, the cloths of our cultures carry deep meaning and social value. They allow us to recognize one another in unfamiliar places and to represent and celebrate our identities. They evoke heritage, acceptance, safety and pride. Culture Cloths is a series of interactive exhibits that explore the uniqueness and importance of these cloths, fabrics and prints across different cultures through a series of displays, workshops and community-engaged talks. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED May 2025 IN ONE CHAWAN & TEA RITUAL May 13, 2025 Designer: Sabrine S. Hakam MORE INFO November 2024 RETURN November 5, 2024 Designer: Sabrine S. Hakam MORE INFO May 2024 JAPANESE CLOTHING May 14, 2024 Designer: Sabrine S. Hakam MORE INFO April 2025 THE CHAKANA April 22, 2025 Designer: Sabrine S. Hakam MORE INFO October 2024 TEKA LANG (JUST WAIT) October 15, 2024 Designer: Sabrine S. Hakam MORE INFO April 2024 MOTHERLAND April 23, 2024 Designer: Sabrine S. Hakam MORE INFO March 2025 HEADWRAPS March 11, 2025 Designer: Sabrine S. Hakam MORE INFO September 2024 STORYBEING September 17, 2024 Designer: Sabrine S. Hakam MORE INFO March 2024 FLAMENCO March 12, 2024 Designer: Sabrine S. Hakam MORE INFO February 2025 MIRRORS February 11, 2025 Designer: Sabrine S. Hakam MORE INFO June 2024 CARIBBEAN AND CENTRAL AMERICAN CLOTHING June 11, 2024 Designer: Sabrine S. Hakam MORE INFO February 2024 FORRÓ February 13, 2024 Designer: Sabrine S. Hakam MORE INFO Calendar No events at the moment UPCOMING DATES

"Baraza" in Swahili means “a meeting of people who come together to share ideas with intent and purpose.” Jamii's 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. 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

INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY CELEBRATIONS / 2024 INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY Jamii's Annual Celebrations 2024 - 6th Year! 6th Annual National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebrations June 21, 2024 David Crombie Park Jamii's 6th Annual Indigenous Peoples Day Celebrations took place on June 21st in David Crombie Park. Attendees enjoyed a taste of Indigenous food, a captivating dance performance by Tribal Vision Dance, and explored a cultural market featuring Indigenous vendors. Jamii also unveiled a photo exhibition by photographer Maddy King and presented paintings by artist Amberlee King, both from Pikangikum First Nation, who visited Toronto for the occasion. Not only Tribal Vision Dance performed " Visions of Turtle Island" for the general public in the evening, but during the day, they performed for over 300 students from Market Lane Public School. Tribal Vision Dance, a family troupe from the Six Nations of the Grand River Territory, brought a high-energy show to share First Nations history and traditions, fostering a deeper appreciation for First Nations culture. The performers explained the history and significance of each dance, introducing the audience to the powwow culture of North American Indigenous people. The cultural market featured jewelry by Theresa Burning, fashion and streetwear by Neechi by Nature, ribbon skirts and accessories by Laura Martin, beads and accessories by Nunny Pelletier, and beadwork and candles by Rikki Singleton. The evening also highlighted Jim Adams, a multidisciplinary artist and educator who combines Indigenous knowledge with contemporary art and science. With a rich cultural heritage connecting to the Swampy Cree, Innu, and Mohawk, as well as Welsh and Kent roots, Jim shared his unique perspective, drawing from his grandfathers' traditions as hunters and gatherers with deep ties to the land and its significance. Jim hosted the event and led a round dance with everyone involved. This special evening brought the community together to celebrate, learn, and appreciate Indigenous culture and peoples. Photos by Jae Yang

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 / Saturday Mingling MINGLING Saturday 7 pm A monthly community gathering: A night filled with music, dance, conversations and other art forms! WHEN | Every 4th Saturday of each month from 7pm to 8:30pm (Check the dates below for each month) 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 Join us at Jamii for an enchanting Saturday night! Our Saturday Mingling is a culmination of the diverse artistic creations and experiences from each month's evening programming. It's a unique occasion where community members come together to celebrate the richness of our shared creative journey. This vibrant gathering offers a platform for everyone. Join artists in a night filled with music, dance, and other art forms. Whether you've been part of our painting nights, singing sessions, or other creative workshops, this Saturday evening is an opportunity to connect, share, and immerse yourself in the lively and welcoming atmosphere of Jamii. Bring your enthusiasm for the arts, your love for community, and your appetite for sharing food and stories. We look forward to making this 'Saturday Mingling' a memorable celebration of creativity and community at Jamii — see you there! REGISTRATION IS CLOSED May 2025 SMALL AND MIGHTY May 24, 2025 Lead Artist: Heidi Chan MORE INFO November 2024 RETURN November 23, 2024 Lead Artist: Razan Samara MORE INFO May 2024 ROOTS May 25, 2024 Lead Artist: Takako Segawa MORE INFO April 2025 THE CHAKANA April 26, 2025 Lead Artist: Carolina Rojas MORE INFO October 2024 TEKA LANG (JUST WAIT) October 26, 2024 Lead Artist: Patrick De Belen MORE INFO April 2024 MOTHERLAND May 2, 2024 Lead Artist: Waleed Abdulhamid MORE INFO March 2025 GROUNDED March 22, 2025 Lead Artist: Sharon Zarita Adhiambo MORE INFO September 2024 STORYBEING September 28, 2024 Lead Artist: Nova Bhattacharya MORE INFO March 2024 MIGRATION March 23, 2024 Lead Artist: Tamar Ilana MORE INFO February 2025 MIRRORS February 22, 2025 Lead Artist: Jonelle Sills MORE INFO June 2024 CONNECTEDNESS June 22, 2024 Lead Artist: Nickeshia Garrick MORE INFO February 2024 FORRÓ February 24, 2024 Lead Artist: Aline Morales MORE INFO Calendar No events at the moment UPCOMING DATES

On Tuesday, The Jamii Hub on The Esplanade is dedicated to immersive learning experiences through discussions, inspiring talks, and niche artistic practices! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / Tuesday Discovering DISCOVERING Tuesday 7 pm Book Club, "Culture Cloths" Talks, Creative Writing WHEN | Tuesdays from 7pm to 8:30 pm (Check the dates by clicking "more info" below) WHERE | The Jamii Hub @ 264 The Esplanade AGE GROUP | 16+ FREE ADMISSION | REGISTRATION REQUIRED | NO PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE NEEDED At Jamii, Tuesdays are dedicated to immersive learning experiences through dynamic discussions, inspiring talks, and engaging artistic practices. Join our thought-provoking Book Club discussions, attend captivating Culture Cloths talks, or delve into Creative Writing. Whether you prefer committing to every Tuesday for a year-long journey, selecting specific monthly series that resonate with you, or focusing solely on the Book Club, Culture Cloths talks, or Creative Writing, there is something for you: dive into diverse learning experiences, and connect with like-minded individuals. BOOK CLUB MORE INFO & REGISTER CULTURE CLOTHS MORE INFO & REGISTER CREATIVE WRITING MORE INFO & REGISTER

< 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

INDOOR ACTIVITIES / SPECIAL EVENTS / JAMII'S THRIFT MARKET SPECIAL EVENTS Fundraising Cute Finds, Great Prices, Big Community Vibes! JAMII'S THRIFT MARKET July 12, 2025 - 1pm to 5pm Hey parents, young professionals, and deal hunters! Come check out a fantastic selection of high-quality and like-new cloths, accessories, and household must-haves at very affordable suggested donation amounts for 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 like-new suit)! We were donated like-new items and we're opening our doors to offer them with a suggested donation to support Jamii’s free arts workshops! Who doesn’t like an afternoon of bargain hunting and community fun!? From cloths to accessories, games, and more, we've got treasures waiting for you! Why should you swing by? Epic deals: Snag high-quality, like-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! So bring your best shopping buddy, 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 will not be providing any shopping bags, please bring your own! We take cash, credit, and debit, so no excuses. See you there for a fun, feel-good shopping spree! SEE EVENT Photos by Akram Yacout

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

The Jamii Hub turns into a singing sanctuary on Fridays! In March, join us to explore traditional celebrating songs from Souther Africa, led by Brian S. Moyo. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / FRIDAY SINGING / VOICES OF ANDES - APRIL 2025 SINGING Friday 7 pm Explore singing in a community sing-along! VOICES OF ANDES April 2025 April 11 - 18 - 25, 2025 Facilitator: Jaime Stears Join us on April 11, 18, and 25 to step into the world of Andean music in Voices of the Andes, an interactive workshop led by Jaime Stears. In this 2-hour session, you’ll have the opportunity to discover traditional Andean instruments like the charango and the quena, learning about their unique sounds and cultural significance. Jaime will guide you through the history and role of these instruments in Andean music, providing an immersive experience that allows you to connect with the rhythms and melodies that have been passed down through generations. The workshop will conclude with a group singing session where you’ll learn and perform a traditional Andean song, celebrating the music that has shaped the cultural landscape of the Andes. Whether you’re a music enthusiast or a complete beginner, this is a chance to connect with the rhythms and melodies that have been passed down through generations. No experience required; Just bring your love for music and a willingness to sing! 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 Singing 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 Jaime Stears Jaime Stears began his immersion in music by participating in a Chilean folkloric group at a very young age, where he learned about the music and dance of the different regions of Chile. He is a civil engineer by profession, but thanks to his 20 years of experience in music, he is a versatile musician and multi-instrumentalist. In Toronto he is part of the band Viento Sur, which pays tribute to Latin American roots music and other Latin bands. Photo Credit: Unknown

The Jamii Hub turns into a crafting sanctuary twice a month on Thursdays! In February, you are invited to learn how to punch needle led Alejandra Higuera. PUNCH NEEDLE - FEBRUARY 2024 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / THURSDAY CREATING / CRAFTING NIGHTS / CREATING Thursday 7 pm Crafting Nights PUNCH NEEDLE February 2024 February 8 - 22, 2024 Facilitator: Alejandra Higuera Join artist Alejandra Higuera for an engaging Punch Needle Workshop. Explore the delightful world of expressing yourself through thread and needle in a fun and creative way. During this workshop, participants will craft decorative pieces for their homes, enjoying a learning environment tailored to their pace. By the end of the session, everyone will leave with their own unique piece—a tangible creation from an inspiring day of artistic exploration. Photos by Afnan Yakot Alejandra Higuera Alejandra Higuera (she/her) is a queer multidisciplinary, visual storyteller focusing on creating poetic visuals through different mediums: video, illustration, animation, embroidery, and projection. Her work focuses on themes of migration, feminism, memory, grief, ritual and being a solo parent by centering the intricate stories of immigrant, queer, and BIPOC resilience, exploring how healing leads us to re-imaging ourselves. As a Latinx artist, Alejandra supports our ever-changing identities, resisting homogenization through a decolonizing lens. Alejandra spends a lot of her time being curious: making up songs and languages, learning about plants, drawing, and being creative with her seven-year-old kiddo. Instagram Photo by Ana Higuera

MULTICULTURAL DAY CELEBRATIONS / 2022 MULTICULTURAL DAY Jamii's Annual Celebrations 2022 - 4th Year! June 27, 2022 David Crombie Park | The Esplanade & Princess St In light of nationally recognized Canadian Multiculturalism Day, Jamii invited community members to engage with the rhythm and sounds of music and dance from various parts of the world. The event included dance by Ballet Creole accompanied by Carribean steel pan music by Trevor Redhead and Susette Vidale, Japanese Yosakoi dance led by Takako Segawa and performed by Kochi Yosakoi Ambassador KIZUNA International Team, Indigenous hoop dancing by Emilee Ann Pitawanakwat, and clarinet performence by Majd Sekkar. The event was wrapped up with a photo exhibit unveiling by Murphy Owusu and panel discussion with the photographer who responded to our 2022 season theme "Water is Memory" through the lens of his camera. In Partnership with Video and Edit by Recro Digital Marketing "Water No Get Enemy"Photo Exhibition Jamii produced and unveiled a photo exhibition featuring Murphy Owusu's work as part of Canadian Multiculturalism Day celebrations in David Crombie Park. This exhibition, presented from June to December 2022, is a selection of 8 photos and it takes us on a journey with Murphy as he reflects on his travels from his home country Ghana, to São Tomé, Ethiopia, and Turtle Island. Through his lens, Murphy reminds us that, despite colonial legacies that separate us from it, we are a part of Nature – the land, its waters and other-than-human life forms. Visit Water No Get Enemy for more information about the photo exhibition! CREDITS Live at the Kisanii Hub Produced & Presented by Jamii Jamii Team: Afnan Yakot, Hadeal Karrar, Iris Unlu, Isorine Marc, Maysam Ghani, Nadifa Daud Mohamed, Yusra Yacout Host: TrudyLee Gayle "Water No Get Enemy" Photo Exhibit: Murphy Owusu Live Performer: Trevor Redhead, Suzette Vidale, Allan Ramsaran Dancer: Ballet Creole Japanese Yosakoi Dance: Kochi Yosakoi Ambassador KIZUNA International Team Clarinet: Majd Sekkar Indigenous Hoop Dance: Emilee Ann Pitawanakwat Stage Manager: Julia Beaulieu Event Photographer: Abel Tesfaldet Event Videographer: Recro Digital Marketing Photos by Abel Tesfaldet, Delphy Photography

Culture Cloths STORYBEING - SEPTEMBER 2024 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / TUESDAY DISCOVERING / CULTURE CLOTHS / DISCOVERING Tuesday 7 pm Culture Cloths STORYBEING September 2024 September 17, 2024 Lead Artist: Nova Bhattacharya A sari is more than a piece of fabric; it is a woven tapestry of culture, heritage, and family history. It can carry stories passed down through generations, reflecting the traditions, values, and artistry of the region from which it originates. In this edition of Culture Cloths , we explore the world of saris and the intricate stories they tell. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Ghader Bsmar, Jae Yang 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. Photo by Sabrine S. Hakam

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Svetlana Bassauer Fashion Designer website Svetlana is a professional fashion design modeler and marketing director turned textile crafts course creator. She specializes in educational classes for children and youth, creating experiences aimed to inspire and enrich kids' learning journeys. She truly believes that it is the art and the experiences around it that become fundamental to how we perceive the world and interact with it. Every new discovery, from seeing art to learning it's history, sewing a Christmas tree ornament or creating your very own toy from scratch, opens a new perspective of the world and the beauty it holds in every corner. It is the kind of beauty that we carry within ourselves and put into everything that we do, making the world a more connected, bright, and beautiful place. << BACK TO ARTISTS

INDOOR ACTIVITIES / LAINI / MUSICAL JOURNEY LAINI Youth Wednesday & Thursday After School A Jamii initiative to encourage girls and young women to explore art and leadership! MUSICAL JOURNEY July 2021 - Ages: 8-10 yrs old Led by Raha Javanfar Under Raha's guidance and leadership, participants formed a musical group, exploring various styles and sounds, and discovering innovative ways to find expression on a variety of instruments. Sessions revolved around the desires and goals of the group, and included diverse activities in addition to playing instruments. 7 participants - 27 hours of workshops. Raha is a musician, performer, theatre designer, and educator. She has worked as lighting/projections designer, writer, director, music director, and performer for many prestigious companies including Tafelmusik, Soulpepper, Canadian Stage, Crows Theatre, and Opera Atelier, amongst others. Raha is currently a Slaight Music Associate at Soulpepper Theatre for which she was the Creator and Music Director of Sympathy for the Devil. She was one of six co-creators of Now You See Her, an anti-patriarchy, Dora nominated play by Quote Unquote Collective, produced by Nightwood Theatre, in which she also performed the role of Daria. She co-wrote and co-directed Kensington: The Musical, along with Beau Dixon, for the students of Sheridan College. The Shape of Home, a musical song cycle co-created and co-music directed by her, Beau Dixon, Hailey Gillis, Frank Cox-O’Connell, Andrew Penner, and Marni Jackson won a Dora award for Best Musical Direction. Photo by Zahra Saleki

MULTICULTURAL DAY CELEBRATIONS / 2019 MULTICULTURAL DAY Jamii's Annual Celebrations 2019 - 1st Year! June 27, 2019 David Crombie Park | The Esplanade & Frederick St In 2019, in the context of multicultural day, Jamii brought together three visual artists who were invited to capture the diversity of the people of the Esplanade with live portrait drawings. Accompanied with lively music and cultural stories this event was a celebration of the rich cultural fabric of our community. Visual artists: Alicia Herbert, Alison Garwood-Jones, and Andrew Patterson worked on capturing people through portraits encapsulating the beauty within us in their own artistic style. Live performances from: Haitian storyteller Djennie Laguerre Indigenous storyteller Jim Adams Québécois musician and singer Valérie Descheneaux Syrian violinist Iman Abdul Razzak and Albanian theater director Indrit Kasapi Visual artist Alison Garwood-Jones also wrote a blog post about our event read it HERE . In partnership with Théâtre Français de Toronto and CORPUS . With the support of Canada Council for the Arts, Canadian Heritage and Ontario Arts Council. Photos by Gillian Mapp

OUTDOOR EVENTS / ÉCOUTE POUR VOIR - 2021 Écoute pour voir June 2021 1-on-1 dance performances Location: David Crombie Park Date: June 4, 5, 6 2021 In 2014 & 2015, Jamii had invited Danse Carpe Diem and their moving performance “Écoute pour voir” to the neighbourhood. We were excited to bring them back to The Esplanade for a series of 1-on-1 dance pop-ups! Écoute pour voir is made up of various solos dispersed throughout the space and danced simultaneously. Dancers and spectators wear headphones connected to an iPod and share in a choreography for the duration of a piece of music. United for a moment and bound up together in movement, dancers and spectators engage in singular encounters and each solo becomes a close dialogue, an interaction that is at once unique and momentous. CREDITS: "Écoute pour voir" Artistic Direction: Emmanuel Jouthe A show created by Emmanuel Jouthe/Danse Carpe Diem Performances produced and presented by Jamii Choreography: Emmanuel Jouthe in collaboration with performers Performers: Elise Bergeon, Andrea Nann, Syreeta Hector, Kaitlin Torrance, Swahdi Ranganee and Irma Villafuerte In partnership with Supported by PHOTO CREDITS

Spring 2022 Community Projects/ Photo Exhibits/ SEEING EVERGREEN SEEING EVERGREEN Spring 2022 Spring 2022 To know a forest you start with roots. Exhibited at The Esplanade & Frederick St. David Crombie Park "Seeing Evergreen" is the title of a photo exhibition that offered 12 participating older adults the opportunity to connect with local youth and share their story through a series of one-on-one conversations. The youths, who are part of Jamii’s Laini initiative (mentoring young women in leadership), were invited to design and create an exhibition of portraits that encapsulates these older adults' stories through words and photography. The creative process was facilitated by co-leaders Maysam Ghani and Ana Higuera. Unveiled on Saturday, April 2, 2022 On display Early Spring to Summer 2022 As part of CREDITS Produced and presented by Jamii @jamiiesplanade Created, curated and designed by Jamii’s Laini youth: Dani Gakumba, Aela Kuria, Sophia Leopold-Muresan, Gennavive Marshall, Tenzin Paldon, Pushpa Saha, Anhar Salem, Morgan Tortolo, Zhenmei Wong-Ward, Nancy Hydee Lanuza Villatoro Creation process facilitation: Ana Maria Higuera and Maysam Ghani Photography: Ana Maria Higuera Project Management: Maysam Ghani Project Direction: Isorine Marc Graphic Design: Iris Unlu Illustrations: Juliana Bandeira Process facilitation guidance: Usha James Presented as part of Scotiabank Contact Photography Festival Supported by: RBC Foundation, TD Ready Commitment, Rama Gaming House, Government of Ontario’s Reconnect Festival & Event Program and Canada Healthy Communities Initiatives. Community Partner: St Lawrence Community Recreation Centre Jamii Statement: As one might imagine, this past winter has been especially hard for many of the seniors in our neighbourhood. Jamii's intention is to feature the voices and stories of local seniors and invite them to take a central seat in our community as we share moments of their journeys, aspects of their resilience, and the richness of their stories. This project offered 12 participating seniors the opportunity to connect with a local youth and share their story through a series of one-on-one conversations. The youth, who are part of Jamii’s Laini initiative (mentoring young women in leadership), were invited to design and create an exhibit of portraits that encapsulates these seniors' stories through words and photography. Our group of Laini youth conceived, curated and designed this exhibit. They wrote each piece of poetry, conceived the concept for each illustration, chose the exhibit title, location, display, and also wrote, through group collaboration, the poetic “Seeing Evergreen” artistic statement. The youth, guided by the artistic leadership of Ana Maria Higuera and Maysam Ghani, embarked on a series of 10 workshops, one-on-one conversations with their “grand-parent”, and photo-shoot sessions to create their portraits. The youth exercised creative leadership skills through exchanging ideas, perspectives and opinions, while delving deeply into the “why” and "how" of honouring the stories of their community members. We are extremely proud to carry their voices and to present this exhibit to everyone in David Crombie Park this Spring. Staying true to the heart of Jamii’s mission, we hope this project will contribute to enhancing social cohesion in our community during this heightened time of isolation. We hope this project gives the opportunity to create new memories for all who took part in this journey, and that we are successful in nurturing the seeds of leadership for this brilliant and passionate group of Laini youth. To Carol-Anne, Chet, Ilse, Joel, Nancy, Naomi, Stella, Victoria, Vivienne, Wajdan, and our two participants who would like to remain unnamed: we thank you for being brave and being a part of this project, sharing your story with all of us. It takes a lot of courage, and trust and we do not take this for granted. To Aela, Anhar, Dani, Gennavive, Morgan, Nancy, Pushpa, Sophia, Tenzin, Zhenmei: your future is bright, we are extremely proud of you, and we will always be there for you wherever life may take you next. Artistic Statement by the 10 young women who conceived, designed and created this exhibition: In our busy lives, we look over many things. Passing other humans without a thought. Forgetting those in our community who are closest to us. Everyone becomes a stranger. We close before we open. Judgement starts before the story begins. Assumptions are made, taking away worth from those we see as burdens. We are in danger of missing without shooting, losing without playing, and we live without meaning. Or do we? “Seeing Evergreen” is an exhibition that explores and builds bridges between generations. From feeling unseen to being seen. From the invisible to the cherished. People’s value in society does not decrease as age increases. We never stop learning and growing; and like a forest, we form an ecosystem. We are one, intertwined and interconnected – one generation with the next. With this exhibit, our intent is to share and bring to light the value of the “grand-parents” of our community, the lessons they can give, and their perspectives on life. Connecting conversations to preserve stories. They are the roots of the community, the seeds that grow and make the Esplanade what it is. Roots hold trees through the storms of time, and as younger generations we can only learn from those who are grounding us. Saplings cannot grow, flourish and mature without the protection of trees, sheltering them from the harshness of outside forces and teaching them how to be. Evergreens are timeless, just like the knowledge the grandparents of our community share with us. We must make connections, from young to old - like a forest of evergreens, we are forever growing together. Seeing Evergreen on Media CANADIAN STAGE Jordana Franklin has interviewed Isorine March, the director of Seeing Evergreen and Maysam Ghani, the manager and one of the facilitator of Seeing Evergreen, and Ana Higuera, photographer and the other facilitator of Seeing Evergreen. The interview published on Canadian Stage's website and newsletter and can be read here: Canadian Stage THE BRIDGE Seeing Evergreen was highlighted on the April 2022 issue of a local newspaper, The Bridge an be read here: Artistic Team: Maysam Ghani Ana Maria Higuera Juliana Bandeira Maysam is a Muslim settler with Palestinian and Syrian roots, who was born and raised in Tkaronto (Toronto) in the Esplanade community - Jamii’s home community. She is a graduate with a degree in Global Development Studies and Bachelor of Education with specializations in First Nations, Metis and Inuit studies, and History from Queen’s University. Maysam is an aspiring educator, a published emerging poet, and community organizer. She specializes in teaching and working with youth deemed “at-risk” through her work with Roots and Wings Kingston, Family and Child Services, and award-winning Toronto District School Board Oasis Alternative Secondary School. Ana Maria Higuera is a self-taught photographer and videographer who captures the poetry, raw beauty and extraordinary of the everyday, focusing on nature, women and community initiatives. Juliana Bandeira is a Latin American visual artist and graphic designer from Brazil. She has been living in Toronto since 2016 when she started studying Graphic Design at George Brown College. Her works involve everyday themes, body investigations and feminine/feminist experiences. Besides daily visual explorations, she loves black coffee, music and cooking. Supported by:

Summer 2023 Community Projects/ Photo Exhibits/ MASHKIKI MASHKIKI Summer 2023 Summer 2023 As part of Jamii's 5th Annual Celebrating Cultures Event Exhibited at The Esplanade & Princess St. David Crombie Park "With this photo exhibition, I intend to capture the essence of life medicine and the human experience and I aim to create each photograph as a unique moment frozen in time, a tiny fragment of a larger story waiting to be told." - Morningstar Quill, photographer. All photos were taken in Pikangikum First Nation. Unveiled on June 21, 2023 On display from June to November 2023 In Partnership with As part of CREDITS Photographer: Morningstar Quill Curator: Isorine Marc Graphic Designer: Iris Unlu Additional Photo Editing: Sabrine S. Hakam Additional Coordination: Vanessa Hazel Artistic Statement by Morningstar Quill: With this photo exhibition, I intend to capture the essence of life medicine and the human experience and I aim to create each photograph as a unique moment frozen in time, a tiny fragment of a larger story waiting to be told. Through this exhibition, you will experience a glimpse into what life medicine means to me and people in Pikangikum First Nation. For example, culture serves as a powerful medicine for individuals and communities, providing identity, pride, and connection to roots. Family is a vital source of great health, fostering love, trust, and emotional support. With nature and wildlife, one can connect to something greater, and nurture empathy for other living beings. I capture a sewing sessions with young women from Pikangikum making Ribbon Skirts: such activity supports social connections, fostering a sense of community and shared interests. Last but not least, sports and games are a powerful medicine for physical and mental health. Not only it contributes to overall well-being and positive emotions, but laughter and friendship are medicine. This exhibition is an invitation to explore what is your own medicine and what you need to heal and take care of your physical, mental, emotional and spiritual health. Most of all, let them remind you of the infinite possibilities that lie within each and every one of us. All photos were taken in Pikangikum First Nation. Click HERE to read more about photographer Morningstar Quill Supported by:

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

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 / I HOPE WE CHOOSE LOVE - MAY 2025 DISCOVERING Tuesday 7 pm Book Club I HOPE WE CHOOSE LOVE May 2025 May 6, 2025 Facilitator: Lee Stone Join us for a thoughtful evening of reflection and conversation as we focus on a selected passage from Kai Cheng Thom’s I Hope We Choose Love: A Trans Girl’s Notes from the End of the World . Guided by theatre artist and educator Lee Stone, we will read and discuss “How Neoliberalism Is Stealing Trans Liberation,” a powerful eight-page piece that asks us to think deeply about systems of injustice, not just elsewhere but here at home. Participants are encouraged to bring Canadian or personal examples, and to bring questions they would like to explore together. This will be a participant-led discussion, welcoming open dialogue and community reflections. Copies of the book are available through the Toronto Public Library in print , ebook , and audiobook formats, and we encourage you to support local independent bookstores if purchasing a copy. All are welcome. No previous book club experience needed. For those who want to take their experience further and share their reflections, 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 Tuesday Discovering - Book Club: I Hope We Choose Love 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 Afnan Yakot Lee Stone Lee Stone (they/them) is a director, producer, and educator. They were born and raised on Chumash and Tongva land in Southern California and educated on Kānaka Maoli land at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa (2013). As a queer/polyamorous, trans/non-binary, white settler/immigrant of German, Jewish-Ukrainian, and Armenian descent, Lee has spent a lifetime using theatre, storytelling, and education to resist the cishet, white colonial project. In 2022 Lee was awarded the Toronto Arts Council, Newcomer and Refugee Artist Mentorship Grant for the purpose of founding Dead Name Theatre, which uplifts and centres the voices, experiences and talents of trans, non-binary, and queer creatives in Toronto. Photo Credit: Unknown

Summer 2024 Community Projects/ Photo Exhibits/ THE PAVILION THE PAVILION Summer 2024 Summer 2024 The Pavilion, a photographic exhibit exploring the theme of "Making Place" The Pavilion is an outdoor photography exhibition curated by Sabrine S. Hakam, with artistic guidance from Sarah N. Ahmad, showcasing the works of seven local photographers, Abel Tesfaldet, Jae Yang, Murphy Owusu, Laura Dittmann, Aleksandar Janicijevic, Rahma Alim, Vincenzo Pietropaolo, and produced by Jamii. This exhibit explores the theme of ‘making place’ with images that touch upon social and cultural topics that we hope resonates with local residents and the wider community. This project is part of Jamii’s ongoing commitment to co-create public art and community gathering in The Esplanade neighbourhood. Location: David Crombie Park, across from Market Lane Public School. Unveiled on Friday, May 10, 2024 On display from May to November 2024 As part of CREDITS Producer: Jamii Photographers: Abel Tesfaldet, Jae Yang, Murphy Owusu, Laura Dittmann, Aleksandar Janicijevic, Rahma Alim, Vincenzo Pietropaolo Curator: Sabrine S. Hakam Artistic Advisor: Sarah N. Ahmad Project Director: Isorine Marc Project Coordinator: May Chook Graphic Designer: Iris Unlu Project Administrator: Yusra Yacout ARTISTIC STATEMENT BY SARAH N. AHMAD Public spaces, or the urban commons, such as this one provide opportunities for citizen artists to express themselves and gain visibility. This project is strategically displayed along the pedestrian spine of the Esplanade neighbourhood drawing attention to this overlooked ‘Pavilion’. This otherwise unnoticed structure has been creatively activated to emphasise the impact of art for a community and the built environment. The exhibit and its proximity to other works of co-created public art pay homage to the socio spatial richness of the neighbourhood. These images showcase the talent of community-based photographers, and their installation here provides them the legitimacy of representation in the physical urban space. Displayed together, these images tell powerful stories about the multiple ways city life is represented and experienced. This project is an example of how public art makes space for ideas, representation and community gathering. It is my hope that the unconventional reclaiming of this ‘Pavilion’ will draw attention to the continued need for tactical urbanism and creative ‘placemaking’. ABOUT SARAH N. AHMAD: An urbanist and creative placemaker, Sarah N. Ahmad uses her background in urban design and policy to activate public places through the arts. Sarah's international portfolio spans cultural programming, community and urban arts, policy-making and advocating for sustainable streets and commons. Exploring the diverse socio-spatial fabric of The Esplanade with Jamii has been an enriching experience for Sarah and motivates her to continue the co-creation of artistic and cultural experiences in the city. ARTISTIC STATEMENT BY SABRINE S. HAKAM: The varied practices of placemaking take center stage in this collection of photographs, illustrating how individuals and communities actively engage with their surroundings to create meaningful spaces. They speak to our ability to imprint our identities onto physical landscapes, thereby transforming mere spaces into sites of significance and belonging. Viewed in sequence, these photographs reveal both the potential for empowerment through spatial agency, and the challenges posed by spatial inequalities. Whether it is human activity or empty spaces, the photographs provide a nuanced understanding of the intricate interplay between individuals, groups, and their environments. They demonstrate how everyday practices become the building blocks of social life by sustaining communities and shaping the very landscape they inhabit. Each photograph invites us to critically examine the ways in which individuals and communities negotiate space, navigate social relations, and contribute to the ongoing evolution of their landscapes. The exhibit itself is presented in the newly revamped and freshly dubbed ‘The Pavilion,’ which has transformed an underused and neglected area in The Esplanade neighborhood into a vibrant and welcoming place. A pavilion is a free-standing structure or building, often found in parks, gardens, or public spaces, designed for shelter, recreation, or ornamental purposes. With the upcoming exhibit centered on ‘The Pavilion’, the aim is to foster social interaction, celebrate creativity, and strengthen a sense of community identity by creating this particular space. ABOUT SABRINE S. HAKAM : As an artist, academic, and educator, Sabrine S. Hakam's creative journey is deeply rooted in the exploration of identity, representation, and the intersectionality of human experiences. The aim of her work is to engage in a multidisciplinary exploration of subjects and imbue them with an artistic perspective that transcends the boundaries of traditional discourse. By situating her work at the nexus of academia and art, Sabrine seeks to bridge the gap between scholarly inquiry and human connection in order to achieve a more empathetic view of the world. In May 2024, Sabrine will be showcasing her latest project, ‘We are our Words,’ at Mackenzie House in collaboration with Toronto History Museums. Her previous work with Jamii includes a series of workshops culminating in an outdoor exhibit titled ‘Calyx’ as well as her ongoing work on Culture Cloths. Sabrine's previous work includes a solo exhibit at Artscape Regent Park as part of the Scotiabank Contact Photography Festival, and an exhibit at Toronto Fashion Week with Fashion Art Toronto (FAT) in 2023. With each project, Sabrine invites viewers to engage with themes of history, identity, and social consciousness, challenging perspectives and fostering meaningful connections through art. Supported by

< Back Rimbala Workshops for Seniors Rimbala combines music with fun movement activities to help seniors improve mobility and memory. Tuesdays - FROM MARCH 1st to APRIL 5th. 9:30am to 10:30am OR 11am to 12noon St Lawrence Community Recreation Centre (Toronto) 2022 - MARCH 1 and APRIL 5 Funded by Jamii. Do you worry about falling – especially during this in-between season? Have you noticed that your movements are becoming more difficult as you age? Are you concerned that risk of memory loss may spoil your golden years? If yes, then Rimbala workshops might be for you, and Jamii is offering them for FREE! Rimbala combines live, improvised music with simple and fun movement activities to help seniors improve balance, mobility and memory. Similar programs in Europe have been scientifically proven to reduce the risk of falls by 54%! Scientists are also researching how these programs are effective in the prevention and control of Alzheimer’s disease. Rimbala has been developed by Dr. Daniel Rubinoff, PhD, Music Director at Jubilee United Church in Toronto and a professional performer, composer and teacher. Daniel has performed as a soloist and chamber musician in France, Canada and the United States, and his saxophone recordings have received airplay and acclaim on CBC Radio and in the American Record Guide. WORKSHOPS ARE FREE EVERY TUESDAY FROM MARCH 1st to APRIL 5th. 1st group: 9:30am to 10:30am 2nd group: 11am to 12noon At the St Lawrence Community Recreation Centre (230 The Esplanade, Toronto) SPACE IS LIMITED TO 12 PARTICIPANTS PER GROUP. Register now. To register, click below: http://www.jamii.ca/register

Spring 2021 Community Projects/ Photo Exhibits/ LOOKS LIKE US LOOKS LIKE US Spring 2021 Spring 2021 An exhibit featuring photographs from members of The Journal collective, curated by 13 young women from the esplanade community. "Curating this exhibit opened my eyes because I am only 11yrs old and I am creating something with other great women. I have always wanted to be a basketball player but people said I can’t because I am a girl, but now I realize that even if I am a girl, I can still do anything I want.”- a LAINI participant, one of the 13 curators of this exhibit On Display April & May 2021 LOCATIONS Site #1 Parliament Square Park soccer field Site #2 David Crombie Park playground Site #3 David Crombie Park at Lower Jarvis Artistic Statement by the 13 young women who curated the exhibit: The way one views the world is the way we all create bonds. This exhibit is an opportunity for us, a group of 13 young women, to share our different perspectives, with you. By providing a window onto the world through these photographs, we are creating a platform to express our different experiences of the pandemic, to relate to one another, to talk about emotions, to let go and release, and to understand that even though COVID-19 has affected many countries – and the world at large - the impact it had on individuals was very different. We hope that “caring” for one another is a sentiment that will transpire through this exhibit. For us, this exhibit is a way to amplify women’s voices. This unique curation process was an exercise of self-affirmation as well as a powerful way to connect with other girls and young women in our community. Being part of this project made us feel like our opinions were heard and validated and we thank you for taking the time to discover this exhibit, which pictures we chose thoughtfully. It was an opportunity for us to discover photographers we didn’t know about, and we are proud to be sharing their art with you today. With this exhibition, we welcome you to our community and to share the magic of the stories in these photos, which express joy, passion, positivity and hope. Depending on your own perspective, these photos will tell a story specific to you, your experience and your views on the world. Regardless of age, the way one views the world is the way we all create bonds. CREDITS Produced and presented by Jamii In partnership with The Journal Collective Featured as part of CONTACT Curated by: Abigail MacDonald, Aela Kuria, Afnan Yakot, Alina Khurram, Elizabeth Afeworki, Gennavive Marshall, Helena Maragos, Huda Mourad, Karen Lam, Mysha Khurram, Raecheal Goddard, Ruthmarie Williams, Sophia Leopold-Muresan Curation facilitated by: Gillian Mapp and Isorine Marc Project coordination by: Marta Iwanek Supported by the Government of Ontario THE JOURNAL COLLECTIVE: The Journal is a global collaborative project of more than 400 women* photographers documenting their lives during the coronavirus pandemic. We (the Journal Collective) have turned the camera on ourselves, our families, on intimate moments and private spaces. Organized into 45 groups, we are taking turns to post our work on Instagram. Additionally, we respond to different themes, which are curated by women editors from international media and photo collectives. By focusing on the collective personal, emotional and psychological experiences during this crisis, we are creating compelling visual stories from around the world that bring nuance to the way the current pandemic is being covered. www.the-journal.org @thejournal_collective @womenphotograph CONTACT, FESTIVAL OF PHOTOGRAPHY: CONTACT is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to celebrating and fostering the art and profession of photography with an annual Festival in May throughout Toronto and year-round programming in the CONTACT Gallery. CONTACT embraces an inclusive and accessible approach to the medium, and cultivates collaborations with and among artists, curators, institutions, and organizations. scotiabankcontactphoto.com @contactphoto Photo by Mariceu Erthal García, a Mexican photographer who uses documentary photography as a bridge to reflect and question the humanitarian issues that cross the Latin American territory. She is currently one of the recipients of the Eugene Smith Memorial Found 2020 and was selected by World Press Photo's 6x6 Global Talent Program (2019). "Self-portrait on my first long trip during the pandemic, look for a virgin beach so as not to be in contact with people." Photo by Oksana Parafeniuk, an independent photographer based in Kyiv, Ukraine. In addition to her personal projects, Oksana has worked with such international media and organizations as The Washington Post, The New York Times, MSF, UNHCR, Save the Children and others. Oksana co-leads the Women Photograph Kyiv Chapter in Ukraine. "Olha Habro, 76, puts on a scarf in the living room on October 22, 2020 in Borshchiv, Ukraine. Olha Habro was born and grew up in the village of Borshchiv and cooks very tasty borshch with beans. Borshch is a traditional Ukrainian dish made of meat broth based soup with a lot of different vegetables, predominantly beets and cabbage. Beets give it deep red color." Photo by Danielle Villasana, an independent photojournalist based in Istanbul. "As a photojournalist who spends more time on the road than at home, I've never purchased this much food at a time in my life. Once a week I leave my apartment in Istanbul to buy groceries with my husband, which involves trips to two stores, and we split up to share the load. Walking home—thankfully, downhill—I take breaks and notice how the weight leaves red marks on my wrists and shoulders. While this weekly chore was foreign to me a few weeks ago, it has become a welcome ritual as it's my only venture into the outside world." Photo by Asmaa Gamal, an independent photographer and director based in Cairo, Egypt. Her first book, "The Seven Seeds" documents Egypt’s celebration of newborn babies and the second is called "Unforgettable Land." She holds a master's degree in radio and television and was recently selected for the "Info Nile" documentary photojournalism grant. "These days we face the Corona pandemic. Time passes slowly in it, but the moments of light travel quickly, which are received by my windows overlooking the small corners of the house. My day has become a long journey I am spending with my child. From one window to another, in search of light somewhere." Photo by DeLovie Kwagala, a non binary self taught photographer and activist currently based in South Africa. Their work explores social injustices, identity and gender based sexuality with the intention of shifting the narrative and defying stereotypes. "Myles, 6 by then, exercising infront of the projector in mbuya, Uganda. During the first lockdown back in April 2020, a-lot of things were different and i found myself as a single parent taking in many more roles than before. I cant teach to save my life so i turned to YouTube for a-lot of school material for my child. This program called PE with Joe did help alot with grounding Myles since i could just let him watch and play along for a bit of calm." Photo by DeLovie Kwagala, a non binary self taught photographer and activist currently based in South Africa. Their work explores social injustices, identity and gender based sexuality with the intention of shifting the narrative and defying stereotypes. "Raldy, poses for a portrait in her backyard in Buziga, Uganda. I’m a queer person. And i have first hand experienced and witnessed the injustices and oppression that we fave on a daily. This is an image from my series the Quingdom ~ In Transition that chooses to highlight the authenticity and celebrate the bravery of those of is who still strive everyday to be ourselves regardless of the consequences rather than ficus on the violence and hate that comes embedded with who are when it comes to our country." Photo by DeLovie Kwagala, a non binary self taught photographer and activist currently based in South Africa. Their work explores social injustices, identity and gender based sexuality with the intention of shifting the narrative and defying stereotypes. "Olivia, a member of no white saviors, leads a protest in kampala, Uganda. After George Floyd was killed by police in America, many people across the world protested and marched along demanding for justice. The No White Saviors, a renowned organization in Uganda to call out white saviorism and supremacy arranged a peaceful protest which ended up in a police raid and all of us were taken in on the grounds of protesting even though we had permission to be there; we were later released with no case." Photo by Rehab Eldalil, a freelance photographer based in Cairo, Egypt "As an engineer and an extreme extrovert, my husband Hazem isn't used to working from home. As we now share space and daily routines, he has become part of my creative process which I would normally experience while he is at the office." Photo by Iman Al-Dabbagh, a photographer from and based in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, whose work focuses on identity, taboos in conservative societies, and the unnoticed stories in-between. "My daughter dancing in her room during the 24 hr lockdown. She has not left the house since March 17 and has not been in school since March 8. " Photo by Nyimas Laula, an Indonesian photojournalist based in Jakarta and Bali, Indonesia. Her works focus on environmental and human rights issues across the country. She began her journey in 2015 and has since worked with Reuters, The New York Times, National Geographic, and VICE. "With my own initiative to self-isolate at home, I spent most of my time in the kitchen. Here I'm making a fresh orange juice from foraged tangerine for a daily dose of vitamin C." Photo by Clara Vannucci, an Italian documentary photographer mostly focused on the Criminal Justice System. "San Giovanni di Dio Hospital, Florence, Italy. April 2021. Federico Piacentini and his intern Maria Teresa Verna taking a break on the terrace right outside the Covid 19 ward." Photo by Andrea Hernández Briceño, a Venezuelan photographer and National Geographic Explorer based in Caracas. She covers everything that touches the social sphere. "Alfred Flores, 5, holds a bunch of quenettes in Patanemo, Venezuela, on July 17, 2020. “He’s a demon”, everyone says. This just means that he’s a restless kid, not that he’s possessed by the devil or something." Photo by Tahila Mintz, an Indigenous Yaqui/Jewish woman based in Haudenosaunee Territory. She is an ancestral scribe working around the world in Photography, Film and Virtual Reality to amplify the voices of indigenous women and fight for the natural world. "The connected, rooted in the liquid of life is sacred." Photo by Analía Cid, a documentary photography, sociologist and feminist activist from Buenos Aires, Argentina. "I currently work as a primary health care worker and last year I decided to document the experiences my coworkers and I have gone through because of the coronavirus pandemic. This includes other care workers that are not usually described as ones, like community leaders who provide meals for their families, friends and neighbors." "Sole and Moni, two migrant women from Paraguay, prepare a typical dish called 'sopa paraguaya' that will be distributed for their neighbors in the soup kitchen of the civil association Los Amigos of Barrio Sarmiento, Villa Ballester, San Martín, Buenos Aires, Argentina, July 24, 2020." Photo by Ranita Roy, a freelance photographer based in India. "While stuck at home, I felt depressed during the pandemic lockdown. This image is a representation of mental health during pandemic." Photo by Irina Unruh, a documentary photographer based in Germany, originally from Kyrgyzstan. Her work focuses on gender issues, mainly in her native country Kyrgyzstan. Since the pandemic, she started a project on gender violence in Germany supported by the National Geographic Society COVID-19 Emergency Fund. Her work has received numerous recognitions and was exhibited internationally. "A quote from the portrayed woman: "I flew to another continent far away. I needed the distance from you and from everything that happened. My soul and my body recovered during this year. I started again to eat. One year later, I flew home as a different person, not broken! " From the series, The Memory Stays - Domestic violence in Germany." Photo by Serra Akcan, a freelance photographer in Istanbul since 1999, who produce photography, multimedia and video projects focusing on gender equality, religious and ethnic minorities, migration, environmental issues. Besides her visual work, she coordinates photography workshops with women, children and youth mainly to share experience, knowledge and keep up with the young generation. "Women gather in many cities of Turkey to protest the debate on leaving the Istanbul Convention, which was prepared to protect women and lgbti+ people from male violence that has been signed by Turkey in 2011. Police blocked the crowd in Izmir and didn’t let people march." Photo by Samyukta Lakshmi, a documentary photographer and photojournalist based in Bangalore, India. Her work focuses on vulnerable communities, social inequality, the human spirit, resilience and climate change. "The COVID-19 enforced lockdown in India was announced on March 25 with only 4 hours prior notice leaving the nation in a state of frenzy. Faced with their dwindling savings due to unemployment during the lockdown millions of migrant workers made the decision to return to their hometowns from cities around India, sparking the biggest human exodus in India since the partition." Photo by Ranita Roy, a freelance photographer based in India. "I feel suffocated sometimes being at the home during pandemic lockdown." Photo by Tahila Mintz, an Indigenous Yaqui/Jewish woman based in Haudenosaunee Territory. She is an ancestral scribe working around the world in Photography, Film and Virtual Reality to amplify the voices of indigenous women and fight for the natural world. "Everyday Indigenous women are taken. They are kidnapped, raped, killed. This goes unreported in the news and ignored by Police. My sisters are warriors and I stand with this fight. I say their names every day. Together we are healing the traumas of colonization. The imposed systems of patriarchy are being dismantled by my sisterhood. We bring back a healthy thriving Matriarchal Society. (Self Portrait)" Photo by Morena Pérez Joachin, a freelance documentary photographer and photojournalist from Guatemala. I work with issues related to indigenous movements, defense of territory, environment, migrations and feminisms. "Self portrait. The steps of our Ancestras. An investigative work about my identity as a women mestiza and maya grandmother. " Photo by Nyimas Laula, an Indonesian photojournalist based in Jakarta and Bali, Indonesia. Her works focus on environmental and human rights issues across the country. She began her journey in 2015 and has since worked with Reuters, The New York Times, National Geographic, and VICE. "Since I have been self-isolating myself, my day to day life has been spent on staring into computer screen, trying to keep my mind occupied, though my mind so often wanders. Here my thoughts wander to my Mom, who's a retired public health consultant, still occasionally went on and off to the frontline to help. We live separately on different island, but her presence is near as her blanket wrap around my body, keeping me warm every night." Photo by Erica Canepa, a documentary photographer based in Buenos Aires, Argentina. "These days are forcing me to look into myself using new eyes. I stare at my fragility and I slightly shake. Learning how to embrace this vulnerability it’s hard, but I’m on this way." Photo by Anja Matthes, a documentary photographer, videographer, and visual storyteller based in New York City. Over the past nine years, Matthes has focused her personal work on LGBTQ youth of color. "The underground NYC Kiki Ballroom scene, is a community self-organized by LGBTQ youth of color, which provides an alternative to high-risk behaviors, as well as a support system that is a form of survival and resistance for a marginalized group that is frequently a target of violence, homelessness, racism, and transphobia. Kiki “houses” function as surrogate families for youth living separated from their parents, collectively empowering and educating its members. Bianca, a transwoman says, -Here I found family that accepts me.-" Photo by Gaia Squarci, an Italian photographer based in New York City and Milan. "Ebony Kinch, who brings food to patients at Woodhull Hospital, tells me about the day she had to feed patients in the ER. “I’ve never seen anything like that. I had to call out sick the next day. It was like a movie that I watched. I walk into the emergency room and everybody is laying down, looking half-dead. It was flooded, people in the gurneys, people in chairs. Everybody is at home watching the news. They don't see what I see. This has been one of the toughest times besides me growing up.” Brooklyn, New York City." Photo by Alyson Aliano, a photographer based on the West Coast. She creates still photography focused on the female and youth experience. Through portraits and interviews she finds meaning in telling stories. She has taught photography at NYU Steinhardt School, Columbia University, for The Ministry of Education in El Salvador, The School of Visual Arts, and UCLA Extension and most recently adjunct at The New York Film Academy. "This is a portrait series that examines the mental health and future prospects of teens who have been in isolation in Los Angeles since March 17, 2020. Mia lives in East Los Angeles with her family. She is first generation American and wants to go to school for Journalism." Photo by Liliana Merizalde, a Colombian documentary photographer and visual artist based in Bogota. "The pandemic has caused social injustices to escalate. In Colombia, many families have used the red cloth as a symbol to tell the government that there is no money, no food and that they are starving."

2020 Unlocked 2020 A Flow of Colourful Connections in Lockdown An art video project created in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic Click here to find all the information.

Beginner and Intermediate Friendly Projects INDOOR ACTIVITIES / WEDNESDAY SEWING / WRAP SKIRT - JUNE 2024 SEWING Sunday 11 am Beginner and Intermediate Friendly Projects June 2024 WRAP SKIRT June 2 - 9 - 16 - 23, 2024 Artist: Mariam Ahmad In June at "Sunday Sewing" we are making together wrap skirts with the leadership of Mariam Ahmad and support from Ghader Bsmar. While you are only required to register for the June 2 session, participants are expected to join all four sessions on June 2, 9, 16, and 23. If you register for the June 2 session, you do not need to register again for the sessions on June 9, 16, and 23. We expect a high number of registrations, so please let us know immediately via email at info@jamii.ca before May 30 at 12 PM if you foresee that you will not be able to join all four sessions , so another participant from the waitlist can take your spot. We apologize if the workshop is filled before you register. The sewing workshops will take a break in July and August, and registrations for September will open on August 15 at 12 PM. Please check our website at www.jamii.ca to register for September. WRAP SKIRTS In Mariam's words, wrap skirts connect beautifully to JUNE at Jamii and Nickeshia Garrick's theme of Connectedness : "A wrap skirt serves as a powerful symbol, embodying the act of wrapping oneself in protection while honoring existing and cross-cultural elements. It becomes a tangible expression of connectedness as participants weave narratives through bold colors, patterns, and textiles. In the act of wrapping one another in adornment, the skirt becomes more than just a garment — it becomes a vessel for stories, traditions, and shared experiences, fostering a sense of unity and belonging." The workshop will offer both beginner and intermediate levels, both exploring wrap skirts in different complexities. Participants will take their own measurements, cut the fabric to patterns, sew waistband, side seams, hem, top stitching and finishing touches. You will take home your own wrap skirts you can wear during the Summer or gift away. Jamii will provide a selection of fabric for you to choose from, and we also welcome you to bring fabric that means something special to you. Our workshop lead, Mariam Ahmad, is a BIPOC woman, who learned to sew hand peddling singer sewing machines with her grandmother as a child. Her artistry beautifully weaves together her Eastern heritage with ancestral textile traditions, resulting in romantic silhouettes that evoke a sense of nostalgia. REGISTRATIONS CLOSED Photos by Ghader Bsmar Mariam Ahmad Mariam Ahmad is a bipoc woman, who learned to sew hand peddling singer sewing machines with her grandmother as a child. Her artistry beautifully weaves together her Eastern heritage with ancestral textile traditions, resulting in romantic silhouettes that evoke a sense of nostalgia. Mariam likes to explore her passion for art through photography and web design. As a mother, she finds inspiration in motherhood and her love for literature, enriching her artistic journey with depth and meaning. Photo Credit: Unknown

Culture Conversations IN ONE CHAWAN & TEA RITUAL - MAY 2025 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / TUESDAY DISCOVERING / CULTURE CLOTHS / DISCOVERING Tuesday 7 pm Culture Conversations IN ONE CHAWAN & TEA RITUAL May 2025 May 13, 2025 Lead Artist: Heidi Chan Slow down and savour the moment at Culture Cloths: In One Chawan, a tea gathering and conversation space led by tea practitioner and ceramic artist Helen Kong, with guest artist Heidi Chan and moderator Sabrine S. Hakam. Rooted in the theme "Small & Mighty," this workshop invites you to experience the simple yet profound act of making and drinking tea as a gateway to deeper reflection, connection, and presence. In this hands-on gathering, you will participate in a traditional "grandfather" style tea ritual, selecting your own chawan (tea bowl), choosing tea leaves, and steeping tea at your own pace. As you watch the leaves unfurl and savour each sip, you will explore the rich history of the vessels, the origin of the teas, and your own reflections. Participants will have the chance to write and share thoughts, connecting the personal and communal experience of tea. Helen Kong, founder of Secret Teatime in Scarborough, brings years of experience as a ceramic artist and tea practitioner, blending artistry, mindfulness, and tradition into every cup. All are welcome, and no prior experience with tea ceremonies is needed. Non-caffeinated options will be available. For those who want to take their experience further and share reflections, 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 Tuesday Discovering - Culture Cloths: In One Chawan 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 Afnan Yakot Helen Kong Helen Kong is an ongoing tea student/practitioner, ceramic artist, facilitator, and organizer of collaborative projects. She owns and facilitates Secret Teatime, a clay maker studio hidden in Scarborough where she and members play with clay and sip tea. She specializes in making tea vessels for ritual, daily life, and to enhance the multi sensory experience of tea. Tea (it’s philosophy, history, and daily practice) has helped Helen cope with her ongoing challenges with depression and anxiety. The practice of deep connection and reflection helps ground her and brings a sense of inner peace into her world. Photo Credit: Unknown

Summer 2024 Community Projects/ Photo Exhibits/ KOSHKI’ZI KOSHKI’ZI Summer 2024 Summer 2024 As part of Jamii's 6th Annual National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebrations Exhibited at The Esplanade & Lower Sherbourne St - David Crombie Park In the spring of 2024, Jamii collaborated with emerging photographer Leah Maddy King to create Koshki’zi , a stunning photo exhibition unveiled at David Crombie Park on June 21st as part of Jamii’s Annual Indigenous Day Celebration. Leah King, a self-taught photographer from Pikangikum First Nation, began her journey with macro and landscape photography, later expanding to astrophotography, capturing mesmerizing images of the moon and northern lights. Through her lens, Leah expresses her personal narrative and captures moments that hold profound meaning for her and her community. Jamii’s collaboration with Leah began in 2021 with Illuminated Perspectives , a photo exhibition featuring four photographers from Pikangikum First Nation and curated by 11 young women from The Esplanade community. We are deeply honored to continue this creative journey with Leah, made possible through the generous support of our funders. If you want to learn more about Leah and her work, click here . Unveiled on Thursday, June 21, 2024 On display from June to November 2024 As part of CREDITS Producer: Jamii Photographer: Leah King Curator: Isorine Marc Graphic Designer: Iris Unlu Additional Coordination: Vanessa Hazel ARTISTIC STATEMENT BY LEAH KING: Our culture and our connection to Mother Earth has been deep in slumber. We were made to forget. We began to fear it. Now we are awake. Restless. We see with new eyes. Reborn. We are taking back our culture. We wear the ribbon skirt that connects us with Mother Earth. We dance because we have reclaimed what we lost. We are awake. And we will relearn and rebuild. Leah King, an emerging photographer from Pikangikum First Nation, is self-taught. She began with macro and landscape photography, later exploring astrophotography by capturing images of the moon and northern lights. Through her photos, she expresses herself, capturing moments and images that hold deep meaning for her and her community. PIKANGIKUM FIRST NATION: Pikangikum First Nation is located on Pikangikum Lake, approximately 100 km northwest of Red Lake in Northern Ontario. “Pikangikum” comes from the Ojibway word “Biikanjikamiing,” which refers to how the Berens River flows into Pikangikum Lake on the east, how the lake spreads out from the river on either side, and how the river leaves the lake in the west across from where it enters. It is a community of about 4,000 inhabitants, surrounded by a natural environment. The lakes and the forest are where a majority of community members still derive a significant portion of their domestic and livelihood needs and where they spend a significant portion of the year living on the land, carrying on traditions since time immemorial. RELATION BETWEEN JAMII/THE ESPLANADE COMMUNITY and PIKANGIKUM FIRST NATION: Relationships are central to our lives and help to ground us as individuals, as families, and as communities. The relationship between The Esplanade community within the St. Lawrence neighbourhood in Toronto and Pikangikum First Nation began in 2018, when Jamii initiated an intra-provincial project with residents of our community who had ties with other communities in Ontario. Our first visit to Pikangikum took place in 2018, with Asmita, a resident of The Esplanade, serving as our ambassador. Jamii’s initial visit to Pikangikum aimed at forging connections, and since then, Jamii has annually collaborated on arts projects with Pikangikum Education Authority and Eenchokay Birchstick School, focusing on youth, storytelling, and well-being. Some of these collaborations include showcasing the work of four photographers from Pikangikum in The Esplanade in 2021. In June 2023, Darwin Peters created a mural on the St. Lawrence Community Recreation Centre in Toronto, while Morningstar Quill exhibited her photographic work in our local park. In 2023 and 2024, Jamii, while in Pikangikum, created a series of video portraits featuring artists, community leaders, and Elders—a project that was born from within the community, which expressed a need to capture their own stories. Through time, trust and mutual appreciation between our communities have grown, and we are deeply honored to present Leah’s work today in our park, continuing to share the stories of the Indigenous peoples of Canada. If you want to learn more about Jamii's relation with Pikangikum community, click here :

The Jamii Hub turns into a crafting sanctuary twice a month on Thursdays! In June, you are invited to explore the essence of co-creation of a communal artwork led Michael Mortley. CO-CREATING COMMUNAL ARTWORKS - JUNE 2024 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / THURSDAY CREATING / CRAFTING NIGHTS / CREATING Thursday 7 pm Crafting Nights CO-CREATING COMMUNAL ARTWORKS June 2024 June 13 - 20, 2024 Facilitator: Michael Mortley For June's Crafting Nights at Jamii, Michael Mortley leads "The Circling Back" visual art workshop. The concept of this workshop is to co-create a series of canvases that carries a contribution from each other. Through the willingness and openness to allow others to share and offer both support and guidance to our way of thinking and our art, participants take home a piece of everyone's intention with us. Each participant starts with their own canvas, and then rotate to add to other participants' canvasses. At the end of the workshop, we come back to our own canvas to put the final touch. They use ribbons, paint, beads, gems and more. While Michael is a dancer at heart, with over 15 years of dance training and education in both dance and theatre, he is a born visual artist and skilled facilitator, promising to take you through an artistic journey. Join us on Thursdays June 13th or 20th, at 7pm at The Jamii Hub, and contribute to each other canvases! We'll bring home something very special! Photos by Aurora, Isorine Marc Michael Mortley Michael has been dancing for over 15 years with his training based in folk, contemporary and ballet. His secondary education was focused on theatre arts and dance. He has crafted his career with his certification over the past ten years with La Danse Caraibe performing and choreographing in Trinidad and Tobago. A graduate of the University of Trinidad and Tobago where he graduated with a BFA in Performing Arts with a specialization in Dance. He has continued his explorations and training at Beijing Dance Academy obtaining a certificate in Chinese Contemporary dance. Michael is also a photographer, costume designer, lighting designer and administrator at Ronald Taylor Dance. Instagram Photo by Dahlia Katz, Toronto Star

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

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

Visual artist Saira Ansari guided participants in the creation of a collective fabric collage to be created and gifted to the Pikangikum community. This is part of a continued community sharing process between residents of the Esplanade, and those in Pikangikum First Nation in Northern Ontario. Live at the Kisanii Hub As part of In Partnership with September 23 to September 25, 2022 David Crombie Park | The Esplanade & Berkeley St Video by Laura Dittman “Live at the Kisanii Hub” brought arts to The Esplanade as a part of the Ontario Culture Days Regional Hub Program and made The Esplanade Toronto Downtown's only festival hub in 2022! The event, “What We Remember” , invited the audience to explore the perception of time and its impact on remembrance. From our busy and meticulously scheduled lives, to timeless ancestral storytelling, this event managed to entertain the whole family! “What We Remember”, hosted by Maysam Ghani, featured acrobatic performance by Eman Hillawi, storytelling by Indigenous grand-mother Kim Wheatley, captivating drums by Njacko Backo, live music by Waleed Abdulhamid, face painting by Linda Epp, painting exhibition by Darwin Peters, an indigenous emerging artist/painter from Pikangikum. With "What We Remember", we also dived deep into our individual memories tied to The Esplanade to nurture our connection to our community! Esplanadians took the mic and shared a memory of the Esplanade from their past. As one of the remembrance aspects of the event, we had a craft table with postcards and everybody will be encouraged to write a piece for a beloved one and mail it following the event. At the end of the day, we are all about what we remember! We thank all Esplanadians who joined us on this rainy weekend for a whirlwind of unforgettable performances between September 23 and September 25 from 5pm to 7pm in David Crombie Park! "Live at The Kisanii Hub as part of ON Culture Days" on Media "Live at The Kisanii Hub as part of ON Culture Days" was highlighted on the October 2022 issue of a local newspaper, The Bridge , with an article written by Ignazio Colt Nicastro. Credits Aerialist: Eman Hillawi Musician: Njacko Backo Musician: Waleed Abdulhamid Storyteller: Kim Wheatley Face Painting: Linda Epp Host: Maysam Ghani and community members to share their memories of The Esplanade! Organized by Jamii Team: Afnan Yakot, Iris Unlu, Isorine Marc, Jonelle Sills, Nadifa Daud Mohamed, Yusra Yacout Event Videographer: Laura Dittman Event Photographer: Anushay Sheikh Acts of Remembrance on The Esplanade Author: Ignazio Colt Nicastro It was only the second day of fall, yet the cool breeze of the season had already swept through the city. As I stepped off the street car and bared autumns chill, my ears picked up on a nearby celebration just a few blocks away. Like a siren’s call, the rhythmic beating of Njacko Backo’s drum lured me over to ‘What We Remember,’ an event presented by Jamii as part of ON Culture Days, where I found numerous community members playing music together. Throughout the night, visitors used storytelling, music, and art, to consider diverse acts of commemoration. Taking place within The Esplanade, there was a degree of care put towards celebrating and honouring the history of this Toronto street. Historically, The Esplanade reflected the meaning of its name: a wide-open space near a body of water. However, through time the physicality of this Toronto strip changed. To remind us of that, postcards featuring archival images of The Esplanade were laid out. Each postcard was an invitation for a memory or personal message to be shared with loved ones across the world. To further the acts of remembrance, local Esplanadians were invited to share memories of their life in The Esplanade. More stories were then shared by Kim Wheatley, an Ojibwe Anishinaabe Grandmother, who first welcomed us into the space with a smudging ceremony. Together we sat around the fountain listening to Wheatley’s stories and songs as the water behind us gushed gracefully. The space also hosted Darwin Peters, a Pikangikum First Nation emerging artist. His traditional Woodlands inspired work was vibrant, alluring pedestrians in off the sidewalk and into the festival of remembrance. As the event came to a close and everything was packed back into the Kisanii Hub, we could only wonder where this travelling cart might end up later this year. At least for today we were left with a new memory of The Esplanade to hold onto. Photos by Anushay Sheikh Eman Hillawi, Aerialist Eman is an award winning performer and professional aerialist based in Toronto, she is the founder of Dancing in Circles: Aerial Dance Studio, and co-founder at CirQular Motion (focussing on rehab and conditioning for circus artists and dancers). She works as an actress, dancer, aerialist and model for companies such as Paramount, LG, the CEBL,Samsung and much more! Eman discovered aerial arts in 2016 and was hooked immediately. She specializes in bar apparatus' such as aerial hoop, lollipop lyra and pole. Check out Eman on Instagram Waleed Abdulhamid, Musician Waleed is a Canadian Multi-instrumentalist; Composer; Vocalist; Music and Film Producer, known for his striking vocals, innovative bass technique, and his speed and precision on percussion. He has been an active member of the Toronto music scene since his arrival, in 1991 from Sudan, where he began to perform as early as six years old. He is the recipient of the Canadian New Pioneer Award; African Tama Award; Reel World Film Festival Award and Canadian Film Board of Excellence Award. In addition, he has not only received other international awards, but was also twice honoured with a DORA Award. Check out Waleed on Instagram Njacko Backo, Musician Juno-nominated Njacko Backo is a storyteller, songwriter, singer, musician and composer who has been performing for children and adults since his childhood in Cameroon. He has a lifetime of practice in capturing the subtlety of storytelling and dance with his music – an essential part of the African performing arts. His programs for children and youth draw on parallels and differences between Canadian and African family life while introducing a passion for the French language. Check out Njacko on Instagram Kim Wheatley, Storyteller Kim is Anishinaabe Ojibway from Shawanaga First Nations located in Georgian Bay Ontario. She is a multi award winning speaker, presenter, author, ceremonial practitioner, singer & handdrummer. Darwin Peters, Painter Darwin is a painter based in Pikangikum First Nation, a community in Northern Ontario. His paintings combine traditional Woodlands art techniques with his own personal experiences and stories. As a result, his subject matter ranges from personal storytelling to pop culture references. When he is not painting, Darwin works at the Eenchokay Birchstick school as a tutor escort to support the young generation of Pikangikum. Linda Epp, Face Painter Linda is a face painter for approximately 10 years. Her story with face painting began with her two children went out for Halloween one year when they were quite young. She went and bought some terrible (non FDA approved) paint at the dollar store and thought she could magically transform them. She later figured out that it didn’t quite work out that way, but she fell in love with the art of face painting. She has since honed her skills with workshops and many hours of practice. Linda has worked with many organizations such as the St. Lawrence BIA, Jamii, long term care facilities, local festivals and private birthday parties. Caring Connections 2021 In partnership with Ontario Culture Days Caring Connections: From my heart to yours FREE workshops & live musical/dance performances Friday Sept 24 to Sunday Sept 26, 2021 David Crombie Park - Esplanade & George St South CREATIVE WORKSHOPS: Visual artist Saira Ansari guided participants in the creation of a collective fabric collage to be gifted to the Pikangikum community. This is part of a continued community sharing process between residents of the Esplanade, and those in Pikangikum First Nation in Northern Ontario. LIVE MUSIC Creative workshops were accompanied by live music with amazing artists: Lauren Barnett, Veronica Lee, Tangi Lion, Jerusa Leao, Katy Moonbean and Beny Esguerra. LIVE DANCE PERFORMANCE Jamii was delighted to present “Two x 30”, a contemporary dance/live art performance directed by Michael Caldwell. Two x 30 explores the inextricable link between our collective and unconscious patterns of movement and our environment. Director: Michael Caldwell Sound Designer and Composer: Robbie Grunwald Creative Collaborators and Performers: Pulga Muchochoma, Roberto Soria, Heidi Strauss Production and Stage Managers: Helin Gungoren, A.J. Morra Photos by Jae Yang I am me. I am mighty. 2019 In partnership with Ontario Culture Days & Toronto Public Library - St Lawrence Branch "I am me. I am mighty." was a celebration of culture as a thread that weaves our community together. FREE workshops & live music September 2019 Toronto Public Library - St Lawrence Branch Activities included crafting led by May Massijeh; live music by Arlene Paculan and Aline Morales; drawing workshop with Connie Wang; live portraits drawing by Alison Garwood ;and story times by Sharon McMillan, St Lawrence Library and Parent Resources EarlyON CFC staff.

OUTDOOR EVENTS / ITINERANT PERFORMANCES - 2020 Itinerant performances 2020 As you may guess, since 2020, COVID-19 has shaken Jamii to its core values by greatly limiting social connection. At Jamii, we believe it is our social responsibility to care for our community during such extraordinary times. With the intent of keeping our social cohesion vibrant and contribute to our neighbours' mental health, Jamii continues to offer a series of free live performances to your doorstep. In the Spring of 2020, Jamii’s mobile theatre, the Kisanii Hub, traveled the residential streets of The Esplanade neighbourhood in the early evening, while delivering a musical performances. March 30th: Domanique Grant April 1: Leen Hamo & Iman Abdul Razzak - co-presented with Canadian Stage April 3: Jeremiah Sparks - co-presented with Soulpepper Theatre Company April 6: Sara Luey April 21: Johnny Toronto April 23: Alessandro Montelli - co-presented with Canadian Stage May 3rd: Jeremiah Sparks - co-presented with Canadian Stage, in partnership with Building Roots May 13th: Lua Shayenne & Cece Haba - co-presented with Canadian Stage, sponsored by RBC May 20th: Arlene Paculan - co-presented with Canadian Stage, sponsored by RBC June 4th: Cleon Wong, Ayelen Liberona, Malavika Santhosh, Ekaterina - co-presented with Canadian Stage, sponsored by RBC No outside gatherings took place during these performances, as neighbours were encouraged to watch from their home windows, balconies, doorsteps or front yard. The Kisanii Hub rode by at a slow pace for all to enjoy the magic of music, while celebrating the importance of staying home during these extraordinary times, practicing physical distancing and slowing down the spread of COVID-19. However, people were encouraged to make some noise as we passed by. We hoped to uplift the spirits and contribute to better mental health for us all as we face the challenges of social isolation. Back then, we believed that such live itinerant performances had the potential to trigger a wide range of heartening emotions, encouraging a sense of community while generally letting people know that we were here for each other. We could not cover every single streets of our community, but we are always trying our best to cover as many as possible. Keep an ear out for musical magic happening in your street! The Kisanii Hub was produced in 2019 by Jamii. Jamii is grateful for the support of the diverse organization who contributed to bring this project to life: Canadian Heritage - financial support Canada Council for the Arts - financial support Laneway Project - financial support Charlie Freewheels - cargo bike donation St Lawrence Market BIA - financial support St Lawrence Neighbourhood Association - financial support A special thank you to all those who contributed to make this project possible, including: Isorine Marc - Original Idea (first as a Roulotte (2014), then Caboose (2015) then Kisanii Hub (2018)) Jacque Fortier - Original Concept Caboose CORPUS Dance Projects - Co-production for the Original Concept as a Caboose Arnaud Vidal - Contribution to original design for the Kisanii Hub Raji Aujla - Consulting for the Kisanii Hub Gurpreet Ghana - Consulting for the Kisanii Hub Arthur Klimowicz - Consulting for the Kisanii Hub Fred Dilkes - Consulting for the Kisanii Hub Vindent's Custom Ebikes & Batteries - Building of the bike trailer & install of e-power for the Kisanii Hub Andrew Patterson - Artwork for both cargo and trailer for the Kisanii Hub Jamii is grateful for the financial support of the St Lawrence Neighbourhood Association who supports visibility for artists local to the St Lawrence Neighbourhood. Jamii is honored to be co-presenting some of seven performances with Canadian Stage , our local theatre. Jamii is proud to have RBC as a sponsor for three of these performances. Supported by PHOTO CREDITS

MULTICULTURAL DAY CELEBRATIONS / 2025 MULTICULTURAL DAY Jamii's Annual Celebrations 2025 - 7th Year! June 27 at 6 pm David Crombie Park | The Esplanade & Princess St Jamii presented Joy in the Park to celebrate Canadian Multiculturalism Day on Friday, June 27, at David Crombie Park (at the corner of Princess and The Esplanade) – a vibrant, family-friendly outdoor celebration filled with live music by Ventanas (flamenco dance), dance performances with AIM (urban style), children’s crafts, face painting, and the return of the second Esplanade Neighbourhood Potluck Picnic! As always, the event was free and welcoming to neighbours of all ages – many brought a dish to share and joined the party. The artistic programming was breathtaking – a beautiful Joy in the Park event! Ventanas , led by powerful vocalist Tamar Ilana , is a six-piece band that fuses flamenco and Mediterranean sounds, transporting audiences with fiery rhythms, rich voices, and global influences. Black in Canada by Artists in Motion (AIM) delivered a moving dance performance exploring the history, resilience, and joy of Black Canadian communities through impactful choreography and spoken word. Children’s craft activities highlighted influential figures in the Black Canadian community. The youngest guests were delighted by face painting by Linda Epp , surprised by stilt walker and host Troy Feldman , and enjoyed family games run by the St. Lawrence Community Recreation Centre , crafts offered by the St. Lawrence Daycare Co-Op , and a delicious BBQ provided by the St. Lawrence Market . It was a true celebration of the Esplanade community coming together to enjoy the summer. This event was part of the ongoing collaboration between Jamii and Canadian Stage to offer accessible, inclusive, and inspiring artistic programming in public spaces. A heartfelt thank-you to Canadian Stage for this meaningful partnership! 7e ÉDITION ANNUELLE DE LA CÉLÉBRATION DES CULTURES 27 juin à 18 h Parc David Crombie | The Esplanade & rue Princess Jamii a présenté Joy in the Park pour célébrer la Journée du multiculturalisme du Canada le vendredi 27 juin, au parc David Crombie (au coin de Princess et The Esplanade) – une fête en plein air, vibrante et familiale, remplie de musique en direct avec Ventanas (danse flamenco), de performances de danse avec AIM (style urbain), de créativité avec des activités manuelles pour les enfants, de maquillage artistique, ainsi que du retour du deuxième Potluck Picnic du quartier de l’Esplanade ! Comme toujours, l’événement était gratuit et accueillant pour les voisins de tous âges – plusieurs ont apporté un plat à partager et se sont joints à la fête. La programmation artistique était époustouflante – un évènement magnifique Joy in the Park ! Ventanas , dirigé par la puissante chanteuse Tamar Ilana , est un groupe de six musiciens qui fusionne flamenco et musiques méditerranéennes, transportant le public avec des rythmes enflammés, des voix riches et des sonorités du monde. Black in Canada par Artists in Motion (AIM) a offert une prestation de danse émouvante, explorant l’histoire, la résilience et la joie des communautés noires canadiennes à travers une chorégraphie percutante et du spoken word. Les activités manuelles pour enfants ont permis de découvrir des figures marquantes de la communauté noire canadienne. Les plus jeunes ont été ravis par le maquillage artistique de Linda Epp , surpris par notre échassier et animateur Troy Feldman , et ont apprécié les jeux de famille animés par le St. Lawrence Community Recreation Centre , les bricolages proposés par la garderie coopérative St. Lawrence Daycare Co-Op , ainsi qu’un délicieux BBQ offert par le St. Lawrence Market . Ce fut une véritable célébration de la communauté de l’Esplanade réunie pour profiter de l’été. Cet événement faisait partie de la collaboration continue entre Jamii et Canadian Stage visant à offrir une programmation artistique accessible, inclusive et inspirante dans les espaces publics. Merci à Canadian Stage pour ce partenariat si porteur de sens ! Photos by Jae Yang

Since 2011, Jamii has curated and screened over 15 movie nights throughout David Crombie park during the summer months. Each of these nights, about 150 community members enjoy a diverse range of all-ages animated movies. Outdoor Movie Nights Since 2011 Since 2011, Jamii has curated and screened over 15 movie nights throughout David Crombie park during the summer months. Each of these nights, about 150 community members enjoy a diverse range of all-ages animated movies such as Triplets of Belleville, Coraline, Corpse Bride, Spirited Away, Song of the Sea, Boy and the World, and The Illusionist. Esplanadians are always welcome to bring a blanket and chairs to share with someone of new acquaintance. Neighbours are invited to relax away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy our communal park space. Since the beginning, the welcoming environment of Jamii’s movie nights has been a way to offer Esplanadians an opportunity for social interaction within their neighbourhood. These events provide a platform to connect with the familiar faces, network within the community, enjoy quality time with the family, and meet new neighbours. Our movies nights are supported by: St. Lawrence BIA, St. Lawrence Community Recreation Centre, St. Lawrence Market, and St. Lawrence Neighbourhood Asociation !

LAINI - Photographic Content and Release Form I hereby grant permission to Jamii to photograph and/or video record my child during LAINI workshops and events. I understand that these photographs and video recordings may be used by Jamii for non-commercial purposes, including but not limited to promotion of the program on Jamii’s website, online platforms, and social media accounts. I acknowledge that Jamii will ensure that no identifying facial images of my child will be shown on Jamii's social media platforms. I further agree that Jamii shall have the right to use, publish, and reproduce such photographs and video recordings solely for the purposes outlined above, without requiring any additional consent from me. By checking this box, I confirm that I understand and agree to the terms outlined in this release of photographic consent form.