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

The Jamii Hub turns into a movie and performance sanctuary on Wednesdays! In June, join us to watch The Room of Bones, Ixcanul, and Cahada: The Opportunity with the artist Jessica Zepeda. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / WEDNESDAY WATCHING / WOMEN'S VOICES FROM CENTRAL AMERICA - JUNE 2024 WATCHING Wednesday 7 pm Live performances, films and documentaries Women's voices from Central America June 2024 June 5, 12, 19, 2024 Lead: Jessica Zepeda Under the curation of Jessica Zepeda, Wednesday Watching this month explores three films/documentaries from El Salvador and Guatemala: "The Room of Bones" by Marcela Zamorra Chamorro, "Ixcanul" by Jayro Bustamante, and "Cahada: The Opportunity" by Marién Vinayo. These three films and documentaries are centered on women's perspective in very different contexts and will bring exciting conversations within the group. Join us on June 5th, 12th and 19th at 7pm at The Jamii Hub for watching together and engaging conversations with Jessica Zepeda! June 5: The Room of Bones Directed by Marcela Zamorra Chamorro | Mexico/El Salvador | 2015 | 61 minutes A film that follows the passage of four mothers in the Institute for Legal Medicine as they search for their children’s remains in the midst of three decades of social violence in El Salvador. June 12: Ixcanul Directed by Jayro Bustamante | Guatemala | 2015 | 93 minutes María, a seventeen-year-old Mayan (Kaqchikel) girl, lives on the slopes of an active volcano in Guatemala. An arranged marriage awaits her, but her suitor must first spend months working in the city. It is a world María knows nothing of, but is forced to grapple with when problems arise. June 19: La Cachada: The Opportunity Directed by Marlén Viñayo | El Salvador | 2019 | 80 minutes Five Salvadoran women take to the stage to tell their stories about being poor, single moms and working as street vendors. Heads-up: We will be on a break in July and August. Jamii's indoor activities & workshop series will commence in September 2024. REGISTER NOW Photos by Isorine Marc, Karen Lam Jessica Zepeda Jessica is a performance artist from Tkaronto (Treaty 13) with roots from Kuskatan, post-colonial El Salvador and focuses on collaborations with fellow Salvadoran artists. Jessica has produced/starred in the short film Sinvergüenzilla in First Kiss (Official Selection: 31st Inside Out LGBTQ Film Festival) and starred in the short film Saturday Fuego Diablo (Official Selection: Sivar en Cortos 2022), both Directed by Anita Abbasi. Currently, Jessica is working on a piece called mi historia que no es única (working title), which is a synthesized recorded audio of their father’s story of defying borders and accompanying his retelling with movement and saxophone. Photo Credit: Unknown

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Ayelen Liberona Dancer, filmmaker website Ayelen Liberona is a multifaceted dancer, filmmaker, culture maker and community weaver. She is the co-founder of The Wandering Eye, where she creates award winning films and site-specific experiences as powerful tools for transformation and social justice. She is also the co-founder/director of Becoming Praxis, an organization committed to developing Open Source Ritual Architectures and Pedagogies that re-story our relationship to land and to each other. << BACK TO ARTISTS

INDOOR ACTIVITIES / SPECIAL EVENTS / JAMII'S THRIFT MARKET SPECIAL EVENTS Fundraising Cute Finds, Great Prices, Big Community Vibes! JAMII'S THRIFT MARKET (HOLIDAYS VERSION) November 15, 2025 - 9am to 5pm Tis the season… for great finds! Jamii’s Thrift Market is back with a special Holidays Version. Think cozy gifts, sparkly accessories, home décor, stylish clothing, and little surprises for stockings. Whether you're shopping for loved ones or treating yourself, this is the perfect stop for affordable holiday treasures. All items are like-new and available for suggested donations from $1 to $50. Your support helps Jamii continue offering free arts programs for the community, so every gift you find gives back twice! Why pop by? • Festive deals: Score trendy, high-quality items that won’t break the bank • Holiday cheer: Free coffee or tea to sip while you browse and chat with neighbours • Shop that feels good: Your donations support Jamii’s free arts workshops and events • Baked treats! Community members will be selling their best holiday goodies to support our programs Bring your favourite shopping buddy, your holiday spirit, and your reusable bag. First come, first served… and these treasures won’t wait long! Cash, credit, and debit accepted. Let’s make gifting joyful, cozy, and community-powered. OOPS, THIS EVENT IS OVER Photos by Akram Yacout

November 2024 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / DANCING / DABKE FROM PALESTINE - NOVEMBER 2024 DANCING Cycles 2024 November 2024 DABKE FROM PALESTINE November 4, 11, 18, 2024 from 7pm to 8:30pm Facilitator: Mona Ayesh In Arabic, Dabke means "stomping of the feet" or "to make noise". During this dance workshop led by Mona Ayesh, participants will practice the group dance and learn about the origin and history of the steps, many of which are rooted in the land and agriculture. Learning and performing traditional Dabke is a form of preserving Palestinian identity and a form of cultural resistance. Dabke signifies hope, struggles, and the history of the Palestinian people, making it one of the most important cultural forms of art in Palestinian culture. Join us for this beautiful series of three dancing workshops with Mona, stomping your feet through culture on Mondays, November 4th, 11th and 18th at 7pm at the Jamii Hub. WE REACHED THE FULL CAPACITY FOR THIS WORKSHOP. PLEASE JOIN THE WAITLIST AND WE WILL CONTACT YOU WHEN A SPOT BECOMES AVAILABLE. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Jae Yang Photo Credit: Unknown Mona Ayesh It is an honor to welcome in the space the respected Mona Ayesh who is a Palestinian Dabke instructor. She has been training youth and adults for over 7 years. Mona Ayesh and her youth team (@dabke4palestine) have performed Dabke Shows at various events across the Greater Toronto Area, including at Muslim Fest 2023, Ramadan Expo 2024, Eid Expo 2024, Hawa Canada, and other cultural events and festivals. Upcoming Dates UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Mon, Apr 06 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 06, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 13 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 13, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 20 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 20, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 27 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 27, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration.

April 2026 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / DANCING / MOVING WITH RHYTHM AND EXPRESSION DANCING Cycles Workshops April 2026 MOVING WITH RHYTHM AND EXPRESSION Monday, April 6, 13, 20, and 27 from 7 PM to 8:30 PM Facilitator: Nickeshia Garrick This dance workshop series is part of Jamii’s April Cycle and reflects the 2026 theme, It Feels Right . Led by Nickeshia Garrick, the workshops centre around Afro-Caribbean and Contemporary movement practices that support embodiment, expression, and connection through shared motion. Participants engage in guided movement combinations that emphasize rhythm, breath, and physical awareness. The workshops support feeling grounded in the body while moving with energy and intention. Each session ends with a moment of self-creation, where participants work together to build a short choreographic phrase based on what has been learned and experienced in the room. These workshops are open to participants of all movement levels and abilities. No prior dance experience is required. Participants are encouraged to move at their own pace and engage in ways that feel supportive and authentic. Workshops are free for participants. Registration is required, and space is limited. Support free community arts Jamii’s workshops are offered free so that cost is never a barrier to participation. If you’re able, you can help pay it forward by donating through Jamii’s website . Your support helps keep community arts accessible and welcoming for everyone. Jamii’s April Cycle is sponsored by Canada Council for the Arts, Toronto Arts Council, TD Ready Commitment, Rama Gaming House, and Charitable Gaming. REGISTRATIONS OPEN ON MARCH 10 Photos by Hadeal Karrar Photo by Jae Yang NICKESHIA GARRICK Nickeshia Garrick is a Black, Queer dance artist with over two decades of experience as a performer, choreographer, and educator. Their training includes studies at the New York Institute of Dance and Education, Canada’s National Ballet School, Toronto Dance Theatre, and Simon Fraser University, where they earned a BFA in Dance. Nickeshia is a Dora Mavor Moore Award–winning artist and currently teaches Movement at the Toronto Film School. Their ongoing relationship with Jamii includes serving as lead artist of the June Cycle in 2024, facilitating Monday Dancing workshops and movement sessions within the Belonging Older Adults program, and performing as part of Joy in the Park. They presented To My Past, Present and Future during the July 2023 outdoor program and returned in December 2023 with the outdoor performance Mudlark. Upcoming Dates UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Mon, Apr 06 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 06, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 13 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 13, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 20 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 20, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 27 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 27, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration.

June 2026 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / DANCING / DABKE: STOMPING, RHYTHM, RESISTANCE DANCING Cycles Workshops June 2026 DABKE: STOMPING, RHYTHM, RESISTANCE Monday, June 1, 8, 15, 22, and 29 from 7 PM to 8:30 PM Facilitator: Mona Ayesh This dance workshop series is part of Jamii’s June Cycle and reflects the 2026 theme, It Feels Right . Led by Palestinian Dabke instructor Mona Ayesh, the workshops centre around Dabke as a communal dance practice rooted in land, rhythm, and shared history. Participants learn traditional Dabke steps and movement patterns while exploring their cultural origins and meaning. The dance emphasizes stomping, grounding, and collective timing, reinforcing Dabke’s role as both celebration and expression. Practised together, the movements highlight unity, presence, and connection across the group. Dabke has long served as a form of cultural preservation and resistance. Through movement, participants engage with stories of resilience, hope, and continuity carried within Palestinian cultural traditions. These workshops are open to participants of all movement levels and abilities. No prior dance experience is required. Participants are encouraged to move at their own pace and engage in ways that feel respectful and supportive. Workshops are free for participants. Registration is required, and space is limited. Support free community arts Jamii’s workshops are offered free so that cost is never a barrier to participation. If you’re able, you can help pay it forward by donating through Jamii’s website . Your support helps keep community arts accessible and welcoming for everyone. Jamii’s June Cycle is sponsored by Canada Council for the Arts, Toronto Arts Council, TD Ready Commitment, Rama Gaming House, and Charitable Gaming. REGISTRATION OPENS ON MAY 10 Photos by Jae Yang Photo by Jae Yang MONA AYESH Mona Ayesh is a Palestinian Dabke instructor with over eight years of experience teaching youth and adults. She performs regularly with her youth team, Dabke4Palestine, and has appeared at numerous cultural events and festivals across the Greater Toronto Area. Mona has an ongoing relationship with Jamii, having facilitated Monday Dancing workshops during the November Cycle in 2023 under the leadership of Razan Samara. Upcoming Dates UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Mon, Apr 06 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 06, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 13 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 13, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 20 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 20, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 27 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 27, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration.

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

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

June 2024 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / DANCING / AFROCARIBBEAN DANCE MOVES - JUNE 2024 DANCING Cycles 2024 June 2024 AFROCARIBBEAN DANCE MOVES June 3 - 10 - 17, 2024 from 7pm to 8:30pm Facilitator: Nickeshia Garrick Join us for Monday Dancing at The Jamii Hub for a series of movement-based workshops led by Nickeshia Garrick, Jamii's lead artist for June! The workshops offer a contemporary take on a fun-paced, Afro-Caribbean-influenced dance workshop that introduces polyrhythms, helping you understand the innate rhythms that flow within all of us. Participants work on small movement combos that will expand every week! ALL movers are welcome to this movement workshop, beginners and advanced! REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Jae Yang Photo by Sabrine S. Hakam Nickeshia Garrick Nickeshia Garrick is a settler on the stolen land of Tkaronto and has performed on this land for over 25 years. They are unapologetically a Black, Queer Artist, who believes in the healing power of breath through raw emotion and movement. Nickeshia received their dance training at the NYIDE (New York Institution of Dance and Education), National Ballet School of Canada (Tkaronto), Toronto Dance Theatre (Tkaronto), and Simon Fraser University (Vancouver). Nickeshia is a Dora Mavor Moore, winning and multi-nominated artist who holds a BFA in Dance from Simon Fraser University. Recently, Nickeshia became the Co-Founder of the dance collective CinnaMoon Collective which premiered their full-length work, Surrendered Spirits at Canadian Stage. Instagram Upcoming Dates UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Mon, Apr 06 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 06, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 13 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 13, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 20 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 20, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 27 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 27, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration.

October 2026 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / DANCING / TAP INTO RHYTHM DANCING Cycles Workshops October 2026 TAP INTO RHYTHM Monday, October 5, Tuesday, October 13, and Monday, October 19 and 26 from 7 PM to 8:30 PM Facilitator: Elise McGrenera Workshops are free for participants. Registration is required, and space is limited. This tap dance workshop series is part of Jamii’s October Cycle and reflects the 2026 theme, It Feels Right . Led by tap dancer Elise McGrenera, the workshops centre rhythm as a shared language that connects body, music, and collective movement. Participants explore foundational tap steps, coordination, and musicality through guided exercises and creative play. The workshops emphasize feeling rhythm through the whole body and building confidence through repetition and exploration. The space is welcoming and supportive, encouraging participants to move at their own pace while staying connected as a group. Comfortable shoes are welcome, and participants may bring tap shoes if they have them. These workshops are open to participants of all experience levels. No prior tap or dance experience is required. Participants are encouraged to engage in ways that feel comfortable and expressive. Support free community arts Jamii’s workshops are offered free so that cost is never a barrier to participation. If you’re able, you can help pay it forward by donating through Jamii’s website . Your support helps keep community arts accessible and welcoming for everyone. Jamii’s October Cycle is sponsored by Canada Council for the Arts, Toronto Arts Council, TD Ready Commitment, Rama Gaming House, and Charitable Gaming. REGISTRATION OPENS ON SEPT 10 Photos by Hadeal Karrar Photo by Hadeal Karrar ELISE MCGRENERA Elise McGrenera is a Vancouver-born tap dancer now based in Toronto. Her training includes the School at Jacob’s Pillow, where she completed the tap dance program in 2019 and received the Professional Advancement in Dance Award. Elise has performed in On Foot by Danny Nielsen, Jeffrey Dawson and Friends , and toured internationally with the tap dance collective Boys’ Club, which she co-founded in 2022. She has an ongoing relationship with Jamii, having facilitated Monday Dancing workshops during the March Cycle in 2025 under the leadership of Zarita Sharon Adhiambo. Upcoming Dates UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Mon, Apr 06 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 06, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 13 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 13, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 20 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 20, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration. Mon, Apr 27 April Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Apr 27, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move with rhythm and intention. A four-part dance workshop led by Nickeshia Garrick. Free to attend with registration.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Jamii Hub turns into a painting sanctuary once every month on Thursdays! In June, participants will use acrylic paint and sand on canvas boards with the lead of Julian Periquet. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / VISUAL ARTS / ACRYLIC PAINT AND SAND - JUNE 2024 CREATING Thursday 7 pm ACRYLIC PAINT AND SAND June 2024 June 6, 2024 from 7 PM to 9 PM Facilitator: Julian Periquet Unleash your creative spirit at Jamii's Painting Night! Whether you're an experienced artist or a beginner, our painting nights provide a space for self-expression and connection. At this session, under the guidance of artist Julian Periquet, you will be invited to play with acrylic paint and sand, creating an artwork that explores "Connectedness through Culture". After the session, take home your masterpiece and cherish the memories of a delightful evening at Jamii. No experience required. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Isorine Marc, Ghader Bsmar Photo Credit: Unknown Julian Periquet Marc Julian Periquet is a proud Canadian Filipino born and raised in the downtown core neighbourhood, The Esplanade. He established an addiction to the art world at an early age. More so from the encouragement and creative techniques his father Ernesto instilled in him. Many of his weapons of mass creation vary from pencils to pens, markers to charcoal, acrylics to pastels, spray cans and more. Hands on with all purpose materials, Julian doesn't shy away from making an everyday object come to life artistically. New ventures such as live painting and set building have given Julian an opportunity to work with various creatives. Working well under pressure and inviting new challenges will always be an ever growing trait on his journey. Instagram UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Wed, Mar 04 March Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Mar 04, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Paint on silk using vibrant dyes and traditional techniques. A four-part visual arts workshop led by Janice Garel. Free with registration. +2 more Wed, Mar 11 March Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Mar 11, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Paint on silk using vibrant dyes and traditional techniques. A four-part visual arts workshop led by Janice Garel. Free with registration. +4 more Wed, Mar 18 March Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Mar 18, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Paint on silk using vibrant dyes and traditional techniques. A four-part visual arts workshop led by Janice Garel. Free with registration. +2 more Wed, Mar 25 March Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Mar 25, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Paint on silk using vibrant dyes and traditional techniques. A four-part visual arts workshop led by Janice Garel. Free with registration. +3 more

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

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:

Culture Cloths FLAMENCO - MARCH 2024 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / TUESDAY DISCOVERING / CULTURE CLOTHS / LEARNING Tuesday 7 pm Culture Cloths FLAMENCO March 2024 March 12, 2024 Lead Artist: Tamar Ilana The March edition of Culture Cloths delves into the world of flamenco under the guidance of our lead artist and seasoned flamenco dancer, Tamar Ilana. Known for its expressive movements and storytelling through dance, flamenco is known for its bold outfits and accessories that play an ode to the dance's rich cultural heritage. Together, we will explore the vibrancy of the fringed shawls, ruffled dresses, and castanets that add to the drama and intensity of this dance as we dig deeper into its fascinating history. Join us for a fascinating conversation facilitated by Sabrine S. Hakam and featuring Tamar Ilana. 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.

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

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 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 / SANKOFA - MARCH 2025 DISCOVERING Tuesday 7 pm Book Club SANKOFA March 2025 March 4, 2025 Facilitator: Glodeane Brown Join us on March 4th for an enriching session of Jamii's Book Club, facilitated by Glodeane Brown. This month, we're discussing "Sankofa" by Chibundu Onuzo, a compelling narrative that intertwines themes of identity, heritage, and personal growth. "Sankofa" follows Anna, a middle-aged British woman of mixed race, who embarks on a transformative journey to uncover her father's identity. Her quest leads her to a small West African nation, where she confronts complex truths about her heritage and herself. This exploration resonates deeply with lead artist Sharon Zarita Adhiambo’s theme "Grounded" as we reflect on the anchors in our lives that sustain us through various phases. Our discussion will blend structured insights with open, informal conversations, creating a welcoming environment for participants aged 16 and above, regardless of their prior experience with book clubs. While reading the book beforehand enriches the experience, we encourage everyone to join, even if you haven't completed your read. This book club is part of Jamii's March Cycle evolved around with our lead artist Sharon Zarita Adhiambo’s theme "Grounded", which includes workshops like Monday Dancing, Tuesday Creative Writing, Tuesday Culture Cloths-Artist Talks, Wednesday Sewing, Thursday Crafting, Thursday Painting, and Friday Singing. “Through these workshops, we let art and community exchanges guide the discovery of what grounds us, or what we need to find grounding on, and pass this discovery to someone else's journey.” - Sharon Zarita Adhiambo. "Sankofa" is available at the Toronto Public Library in print , e-book , and audio book formats and can be purchased at most bookstores. The workshop is free to attend. Come and connect with a community of readers and creatives as we journey through literature and art to discover what grounds us. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Afnan Yakot Glodeane Brown Glodeane Brown is a Mississauga based arts and culture writer, arts administrator and cultural manager, visual arts curator, and an avid reader. Her great grandmother taught her to read at age four and instilled in her a love of books and reading. Glodeane is looking forward to connecting with other bibliophiles who love good conversation. Photo by Edwin Maina

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

COMMUNITY PROJECTS / PARTNERSHIPS / HEARTISTRY HEARTISTRY Art Workshop Series PARTNERSHIP WITH BRUSSAUX ART GROUP, AND SISTERS CIRCLE May to June 2025 Workshops Led by Curtia Wright From May 17 to June 28, 2025, with Heartistry , 15 participants embarked on a heartfelt journey of healing and self-discovery through art with a series of art workshops led by artist Curtia Wright. One participant shared that the workshops series made her feel safe to express herself freely. Over six Saturdays, the group explored emotions and creativity through drawing, painting, collage, self-portraits, and a collaborative mural, creating a safe and welcoming space to connect, reflect, and grow together. “This experience helped me feel calm, relaxed, and grounded.” Shared one of the participants. The series concluded with a group mural, symbolizing individual growth connected by a shared vine of healing and resilience. One participant said: “For me, it was such a sweet way to connect with amazing people while reflecting on my own journey.” This workshop series was co-produced by Jamii, Brussaux Art Group , and Sister's Circle . WORKSHOP SERIES BREAKDOWN: Week One: Exploring Names & Identity Participants reflected on the meaning of their names and how these shaped their sense of self and identity. Week Two: Collage & Self-Discovery Through collage, participants expressed values and aspects of their identity, drawing from memories and meaningful life events. Week Three: Abstract Emotion Using abstract art, participants explored and expressed inner emotions through color, shape, and movement - beyond words. Week Four: Self-Portraits Participants created expressive self-portraits focused on emotional truth rather than physical accuracy, encouraging self-reflection. Week Five: Safe Space Imagery Participants illustrated real or imagined places where they felt safe, using the imagery as a tool for emotional grounding. Week Six: Group Mural – Healing Together Participants co-created a mural, each contributing a section symbolizing personal growth, connected by a shared vine of healing and resilience. Photos by Laura Dittmann, Isorine Marc, Afnan Yakot Photo by Laura Dittmann About Curtia Wright: Curtia Wright is a multidisciplinary Fine Artist, Mural Artist and Arts Educator based in Toronto, Ontario. She received her BFA at OCAD University in the Drawing and Painting program in 2015. Her murals fuse elements of fantasy, sci-fi and surrealism with vibrant transportive colours used to animate their environments. Her work uses the human figure to showcase narratives often centering around her lived experience. The work she creates looks at mental health, metaphysics, and the ephemerality of dreams and memory through a sci-fi lens. She has collaborated on public art projects with Community organizations, Commercial and Private mural commissions across Canada and Internationally. About Brussaux Art Group: Brussaux Art Group, founded by multidisciplinary artist and advocate Sophie Brussaux, is a Toronto-based creative collective that merges art, sustainability, and technology to drive social impact. The group has partnered with institutions like the UN and GoChain, and has been featured in Forbes for its work in using creativity to influence positive change. Brussaux Art Group has a strong presence in Toronto’s cultural scene and a mission to amplify underrepresented voices through visual art and storytelling. Find out more: Brussaux Art Group About Sisters Circle: Sister’s Circle is a Toronto-based organization that empowers Black and racialized Muslim girls and women through workshops and support services. They foster personal growth, cultural connections, and mental wellness in a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment. Founded to create a dedicated space where women are truly seen and heard, Sister’s Circle is committed to empowerment, cultural enrichment, and making a meaningful impact in the lives of young Black women. Find out more: Sister's Circle

c70b6714-1353-41f3-bfb6-849bbd660a78 < Back Wolfe Island SEPT 2020 3rd VISIT In the Fall of 2019, Jamii visited Wolfe Island and invited locals to create visual portraits of fellow neighbours, friends or family member.In September 2020, Jamii came back to Wolfe Island to exhibit this collection of portraits made throughout the province. Along with this beautiful exhibit, Jamii invited local artists to bring a selection of these portraits to life through music, dance, storytelling, and drumming; A whirlwind of stories.Artists Teilhard Frost, Jason Mercer, Robert Douglas, Terri-Lynn Brennan, Sue Croweagle, Sukruti Tirupattur, Nancy Steele, and Lucas Sherwood, host Heather Kushum Sheedy and tech Cohen Samson treated the audience to a very rich performance with dance, drumming, storytelling, music, and a mix of genres and styles together. We only had one rehearsal the day before the public performance to create this series of short pieces. Watching artists coming together, creating in the moment, exchanging ideas, trying things, developing a structure with room for improvisation and then sharing with an audience is such a beautiful process. A beautiful spirit by the water. A project directed by Isorine Marc On-site coordination: Sharon Zarita. Thank you to photographer Susan Bowers, for capturing the performances. Videos: Isorine Marc Supported by Ontario Arts Council and Canada Council for the Arts. NOV 20-24 & DEC 5-8 2019 2nd VISIT More than 55 people are participating in "Wind Stories" on Wolfe Island, and together, we are creating about 20 portraits of fellow members of the community. Some of the people involved in the project include (but not limited to): Barb Halladay, Chris Brown, Clara Lovalt, Don Chisholm, Eddie Calnan, Emilie Steele, Georgia Wroe, Hank, Janette Haase, Kathy Rothermel, Kerryn Graham, Kim Smith, Lily De Bruin, Linda Thomas, Liz Crothers, Lucas Sherwood, Lyda-Rose Eves, Marjorie Bousfield, Nancy Steele, Robert, Scarlett Graham, Susan Bowers, Terri-Lynn Brennan, Tom Wroe, Trudy de Ruiter, Wyatt Pyke. The students of Marysville Public School invited Danny Mosiers, James Kirkham, Ken White, Phoenix and Tara Broeders to have their portraits done in the school and they generously accepted. The students' artworks were very creative and we feel very proud of them. A special thank you goes to the teaching body of the school for their support through the creative process with the students. This project would not be possible without the support of the WIG (Wolfe Island Gallery) and Marysville Public School. Oct 5-9 & Oct 30-Nov 1 2018 1st VISIT 2018 JOURNAL (Nov 1st, 2018): During our journey to Wolfe Island in 2018, not only we were overwhelmed by a warm welcome but also discovered a community full of talented people, tons of stories to share, and breathtaking landscapes. Nancy Steele and Sus Bowers connected us to the community at large and gave us a special tour of the Wolfe Island Gallery (WIG); Pamela Miedema and her husband shared with us the history of the light house on Simcoe Island, which we reached via cable ferry; Tara Beers and Jennifer Lawless gave us a tour of Marysville Public School; Denis Doyle and Darlene Plumley told us about Frontenac Council; Kayo Murakami-Wood and Heather Kushum Sheedy shared with us insights on the life in the community; We met with Chris Brown who told us about the arts scene in the community; And we were humbled to meet beautiful people such as Pete Bowers, Bruce Mellon, Carolyn & Tom Wiens, Rocky Roberts, Leanne, Gail Kennie, and many more wonderful people. We got to learn about the history of the 89 windmills on the islands, as well as the different families who have been living on the islands for about 7 generations. Finally, many thanks to Terri-lynn Brenan who shared with us some insights on Indigenous burial grounds on the islands. It was also a pleasure to share with the community a special screening of Jamii's documentary FEETPRINT. Thank you to the WIG for organizing it. Previous Next

The Jamii Hub turns into a singing sanctuary on Fridays! In February, join us to explore melodies and create a communal song led by Nickeshia Garrick and Paula Sofía Morales. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / SINGING / THE MUSICAL TRADITION OF SPIRITUALS - FEBRUARY 2025 SINGING Friday 7 pm THE MUSICAL TRADITION OF SPIRITUALS February 2025 February 7 - 14 - 21, 2025 Facilitator: Martin Gomes In this musical workshop exploring the theme of “Mirrors”, we will focus on the rich musical tradition of Spirituals. Spirituals are musical folk songs created by enslaved Africans following their arrival in North America between 1619 and 1860. Passed down orally through generations, these melodies and stories encapsulate the history, suffering, hope, and resilience of a people who found the strength to sing through their hardships. As Dr. Everett McCorvey describes, Spirituals speak to the profound ability to tell and re-tell heroic stories of triumph and survival through music. They are deeply rooted in the call-and-response technique, which demands intentional listening and often repetition of musical lines. Building on Jonelle Sills’s theme of Mirrors , this workshop will invite participants to audibly mirror one another, fostering connection and understanding through the shared experience of these powerful songs. Photos by Jeeya Gandhi, Mariana Hernandez, Hadeal Karrar Martin Gomes Martin Gomes (He/They) is an Afro/Latino, queer writer and composer born & based in downtown Toronto. He currently works as an artist facilitator teaching poetry & beatboxing for organizations such as Unity Charity, Lakeshore Arts, JAYU, VIBEArts, tdsbCREATES, & Crossroads Theatre. He’s been afforded the opportunity of performing for people & places such as Opera Atelier, CBC, Sony, Soho House, The Harbourfront Centre, Nuit Blanche, TOLive, and Treemonisha. With their art, he hopes to set an example of authenticity, empathy, and observation wherever possible in an attempt to spread messages of loving each other's neighbours even through all the noise. Photo Credit: Unknown UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Tue, Feb 17 February Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Feb 17, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing freely and follow what feels right. A four-part community singing series led by Martin Gomes. Free with registration. +16 more Mon, Feb 23 February Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Feb 23, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing freely and follow what feels right. A four-part community singing series led by Martin Gomes. Free with registration. +9 more

MULTICULTURAL DAY CELEBRATIONS / 2021 MULTICULTURAL DAY Jamii's Annual Celebrations 2021 - 3rd Year! "The Wedding" is a three-part project that invited professional artists and members of The Esplanade community to explore what a mixed-culture wedding looks like (PART I), what are the emotional triggers of wedding ceremonies (PART II) and the emotional roller-coaster of wedded life (PART III). Part I was filmed on June 27th as a celebration to Canadian Multiculturalism Day, Part II in July and Part III in October - all filmed as a one-shot, at the heart of The Esplanade community - David Crombie Park. With Part I of this wedding you will see, we explore different ceremonial traditions, based on the artists and participants' own cultures. Amongst other traditions, we brought together a Brazilian procession, a Chinese tea ceremony, an Indigenous blanket ceremony, and an Albanian shami burning dance. Even though it is now considered normal to recognize each other’s cultural heritage, do we actually celebrate and acknowledge intercultural mixing, and if so, how? Can we bring our cultures together while retaining our cultural traditions, our sense of identity and uniqueness? "The Wedding" is an invitation to explore these questions, together. Check out the full series HERE . Produced and presented by: Jamii Esplanade A PROJECT SUPPORTED AND FUNDED BY: Canada Council for the Arts Canadian Heritage Ontario Arts Council Government of Ontario ShowLoveTo - City of Toronto Canadian Stage St Lawrence Neighbourhood Association Photos by Omer Yukseker Jae Yang

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

The Jamii Hub turns into a movie and performance sanctuary on Wednesdays! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / WEDNESDAY WATCHING / COMING SOON - OCTOBER 2024 WATCHING Wednesday 7 pm Live performances, films and documentaries Coming Soon! October 2024 October 9, 16, 23 Lead: Stay tuned We are currently working on the content for this program and will update this page as soon as we are ready to share the exciting happenigns with you! Please stay tuned. REGISTER NOW Photos by Isorine Marc, Karen Lam The artist's bio coming soon! Stay tuned.

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

COMMUNITY PROJECTS / PARTNERSHIPS / DRAWINGTO DRAWINGTO Visual Art Workshops PARTNERSHIP WITH ARTISTS Ongoing Workshops Led by Juliana Bandeira and Luiza Albertini Jamii partners with DrawingTO , an initiative founded by Juliana Bandeira and Luiza Albertini, two Brazilian artists who share a love for art, design, and all things handmade. Since 2023, DrawingTO has been creating spaces across Toronto where people come together to draw, experiment, and reconnect with creativity for its own sake. At The Jamii Hub, we support their ongoing workshops by providing space and helping connect their sessions with our community. Each 90-minute gathering focuses on the joy of process over perfection, inviting participants to explore, play, and see the world with fresh eyes. Through simple yet thoughtful exercises like turning random shapes into imaginative forms, drawing self-reflective sketches, and creating tactile collages, participants find themselves slowing down and noticing the small details of their lives. As one participant shared, “It helped us make our mind ponder over the small details of our lives.” Others appreciated the welcoming atmosphere and accessibility that come with hosting DrawingTO at The Jamii Hub. “The venue provided ample space for everyone and having the materials provided made it very accessible,” one participant reflected, while another added, “It was my first time attending and I had a great time… the exercises were a fun warm-up to the collage activity.” Participants often leave feeling inspired and recharged: “DrawingTO is an amazing event in Toronto that has the power to change the way you feel. It is impossible not to feel energized after so much fun and creativity being expressed.” This partnership celebrates what both Jamii and DrawingTO believe in: creativity as a shared, human experience that connects us to one another. Photos by Juliana Bandeira and Luiza Albertini Photo Credit Unknown Juliana Bandeira Juliana is a Sagittarian, a mother, and never says no to a good book with some cake and a (large) cup of coffee. She always keeps a notebook close by to capture ideas that pop up out of nowhere and deeply believes in the beauty of genuine connections with people. Passionate about feminism, culture, and art, she’s constantly diving into new research and sources of inspiration. Monday to Friday she’s a Senior Graphic Designer at OOSTF/FEESO and an illustrator, bringing vibrant colors, lines, and stories to life. Luiza Albertini Luiza is a Brazilian-born, Toronto-based artist, architect, and illustrator who just can’t resist playing with colors, textures, and new materials. From digital prints to watercolor splashes to cozy textile art, she loves experimenting and turning ideas into something you can see, feel, and connect with. She also helps people bring their own visions to life—because creativity is more fun when it’s shared. A curious traveler, Luiza never goes anywhere without her sketchbook—capturing the scenes, places, and little moments that inspire her along the way. Taurus sun, Pisces moon. Rock climber, adventure seeker. Forever chasing the perfect croissant + coffee combo.

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

2013 Catwalkers 2013 For four months, six committed women from The Esplanade - Teresa McGeachie, Rosie Fernandez, Marina Hanacek, Judy Browne, Carol Auld & Kerryn Graham - worked with artist Anne Fauteux on the creation of a collection of wearable pieces. This unique collection pushes traditional boundaries of the fashion industry by creating outfits that are playful and stimulate interaction between people and urban space. Designers have used recycled material referring to sustainable and creative ways of living. Co-curated by Catherine Sicot ( Elegoa Cultural Production ) and Isorine Marc. ‘Catwalkers’ was a project designed, staged and performed by professional artists Anne Fauteux and Michael Caldwell, and community members from The Esplanade. The collection was presented for the first time to the public as part of the Catwalkers's Show, a choreographed site-specific performance featured during Scotiabank Nuit Blanche (Saturday, Oct 5th 2013). Choreographer Michael Caldwell worked with diverse models - members of The Esplanade community - on the creation of this performance. The Catwalkers' Show took the audience on a journey to the heart of The Esplanade. This project is co-produced by Jamii and CORPUS . Presenting partner: St Lawrence Market Neighboorhood BIA . Thanks to the support of the Ontario Trillium Foundation and the Ontario Arts Counci l. Special thanks to ING Direct, Jamii's 2013 season sponsor.

Culture Cloths CARIBBEAN AND CENTRAL AMERICAN CLOTHING - JUNE 2024 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / TUESDAY DISCOVERING / CULTURE CLOTHS / LEARNING Tuesday 7 pm Culture Cloths CARIBBEAN AND CENTRAL AMERICAN CLOTHING June 2024 June 11, 2024 Lead Artist: Nickeshia Garrick For this edition of Culture Cloths, we explore the theme of ‘connectedness’ under the guidance of our lead artist Nickeshia Garrick. Through an exploration of Caribbean and Central American customs, clothing, rhythm and dance, we take a closer look at the cultural ties that connect us all. Join us this June for an evening of discovery, discussion and, most importantly, connection. The evening is facilitated by Sabrine S Hakam, in conversation with guest artist Nickeshia Garrick, and with sorel drink and treats by Muna Elbadri. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Isorine Marc Sabrine S. Hakam | Instagram Sabrine S. Hakam is a Toronto-based artist and thinker whose style of symbolism-infused portraits foster discussions on identity, representation, and power. Sabrine holds a PhD in Geography (Arts) from King’s College London, as well as an MSc in Urbanisation and Development from the London School of Economics, an MPhil in Development Studies from the University of Oxford, and a BSc from New York University. Her work situates itself at the nexus of academia and art in order to humanize the subjects of academic work.

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

INDOOR ACTIVITIES / LAINI / VIDEO SKILLS LAINI Youth Wednesday & Thursday After School A Jamii initiative to encourage girls and young women to explore art and leadership! VIDEO SKILLS November 2021 - January 2022 Led by Alejandra Higuera Alejandra Higuera and her mentee have embarked on a journey to capture "WIsdoM ripples" - a photography exhibit curated by 9 young women of The Esplanade community. During this project, Alejandra and her mentee worked on filming skills, getting familiar with professional filming equipment, editing a short video, and exploring video animation. This project led to the creation of a short video that was distributed on Jamii's social media and presented on Jamii's website. Alejandra Higuera is a multidisciplinary, visual storyteller working in video, animation, projection, and illustration. Her work focuses on themes of migration, feminism, memory, grief, ritual by centering the intricate stories of immigrant, queer and BIPOC resilience and exploring how healing leads us to re-imaging ourselves. Photo by Ana Figo

2021 OUTDOOR EVENTS / WAYO / WAYO 2021 WAYO 2021 JAMII'S 2ND ANNUAL CHILDREN'S FESTIVAL WAYO was a three-day children’s festival that gave attendees an intimate multi-arts experience through a timed journey of performances through The Berkeley Castle and Canadian Stage’s Berkeley Theatre. The 2nd annual festival welcomed 300 audience members through this parkour festival experience. "Wayo was the ultimate compensation for all the live art children and young audiences have been deprived off lately. Empty lawns, parking lots, staircases, building corners were all designed and utilized as COVID-safe outdoor stages. For the second year, Jamii has successfully offered the arts in a palatable and personal way to young audiences at Wayo Children's Festival.” -Sharon Zarita, Arts Administrator and Writer An artistic footprint for Esplanadian families to encounter Written by Sharon Zarita August 22nd, 2021 "Wayo, a children’s festival produced and presented by Jamii, was the ultimate compensation for all the live art children and young audiences have been deprived off lately. The three day festival gave attendees an intimate multi-arts experience through a journey of performances at Berkeley Castle and Canadian Stage’s Berkeley Theatre. Curated to reflect its Swahili meaning of footprint, eight stages with different groups of artists awaited to gift the attending families a lasting creative mark for the summer. At each stage, the attendees had three minutes of a solo performance, and thereafter engaged by ring masters in an informative post-show analysis. Empty lawns, parking lots, staircases, building corners were all designed and utilised as COVID-safe outdoor stages. Attendees were invited to the parkour by the bleating sounds of CORPUS “Les moutons” sheep. The children look on as a shepherd strolls by the shed to feed the sheep and are left to their own imagination in this display of real life characters in theatrical costumes. “I think that one is a person because he has a beard,” a 5 year old whispers to the dad who challenges her guess with a reminder that goats have beards too. Next they are ushered to a henna booth for a culturally inspired keepsake on their palms. Each child gets to pick a design and while it’s being drawn they are informed on the origin of henna. As the henna dries up, a soft violin tune begins to play in the background which they can’t resist but follow it. The violinist, Saraphina Violin, is joined by lollipop lyra performers Aelxandra Legendre and Eman Hillawi, whose snake-skin costumes in a calming blue hue make the children gasp. Here, they come in close proximity with artistic elements like sounds, movement, set up, wardrobe - and are able to internalize it all without distractions often found in crowds when this performance happens on large platforms. As it ends two sets of claps fill the empty lawn, and even though the artists are used to a more fulsome standing ovation the looks on their faces say this personal performance was just as delightful." "If a dollar was donated for every time a child mentioned the next stage as their favourite Jamii would already be planning next year’s festival. They participate in a giraffe trivia show by Kristi Heath, then are tasked with a toss game to put a ring around the giraffe’s neck. It rebirths zoo experiences they love and have missed. The next three performances happen in the Berkeley Theatre, starting with a powerful percussion and opera duet in the Baillie Theatre by Jonelle Sills, Sergio Xocolate and Suzanne Roberts Smith. At an outdoor corner naturally decorated with a wall plant, they engage with a flamenco dance by Carmen Romero, accompanied by cellist George Crotty. They are offered a toy bird needing a home to take care of. Afterwards, they get to dance and sing along to West African beats and chants of Lua Shayenne and Cécé Haba. As each family takes their turn to be front row guests to these performances, one cannot help but appreciate how the festival has introduced the community to artistic spaces within the neighbourhood that are inaccessible to some. The festival wraps up with a ride on Kisanii Hub, Jamii’s mobile theatre. It cycles around the empty Canadian Stage parking lot, celebrating how this experience has enabled young audiences to experience and enjoy live arts within a COVID world. On their way out, they choose a book to take home from a collection of BIPOC authors. Tayaa, 10 years and Nazaree, 12 years both pick “Amina’s Voice” saying it feels like the girl with curly hair on the cover was calling to them. The two applaud the festival for combining different cultural genres and art forms making them feel like they were on an art tour around the world. Parents in attendance appreciated how this will have a positive effect in the creative development of the children. For the second year, Jamii has successfully offered the arts in a palatable and personal way to young audiences at Wayo Festival. Huge appreciation to them for this much-needed artistic experience." Sharon Zarita is a Kenyan arts administrator at Lakeshore Arts and Editor-in-Chief of Sekoya Magazine, the premier East African crafts and culture publication. Supported by August 19 to 21 LOCATION Berkeley Castle & Berkeley Theatre CREDITS Featured Artists (in order of appearance): Corpus, Saraphina Violin, Alexandra Legendre, Veronica Lee, Kristi Heath, Jonelle Sills, Sergio Xocolate, Suzanne Roberts Smith, George Crotty, Carmen Romero, Lua Shayenne, Cécé Haba. SUPPORTERS AND PARTNERS The Berkeley Castle, Canadian Stage, Canada Council for the Arts, Government of Ontario, and Indigo, Love of Reading Foundation JAMII TEAM Isorine Marc (Artistic Director), Jasmin Linton (Event Manager), DeeAnn Hagler Sagar (Philanthrophy Manager), Amye Sagar (Production Assistant), Cynthia Ruso (Coordinator), Iris Unlu (Graphic Designer) WAYO STAFF Afnan, Tereka, Asmaa, Maha, Alysha, Akram, Ammar, Usama, Rayan, Maram & Anhar. All staff at Canadian Stage, lead by Leslie Hernandez, who helped us onsite Photos by: Jae Yang

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

Spring 2023 Community Projects/ Photo Exhibits/ JOURNEY FROM... JOURNEY FROM... Spring 2023 Spring 2023 A Photo Exhibition by Gillian Mapp Exhibited in front of The Jamii Hub | 264 The Esplanade On March 25, Jamii unveiled "Journey From...", a photo exhibition by Gillian Mapp, as part of our The Kisanii Hub outdoor events series of 2023. "Journey From..." invited audiences to discover the stories of those who have immigrated to Canada and now live in The Esplanade community. Photo portraits of 6 community members, taken by Gillian Mapp, were accompanied by intergenerational conversations of their journey of immigration. As part of the unveiling event, Aline Morales, Heidi Chan, Sukruti Tiripattur, Irma Villafuerte performed and made the unveiling a visual and auditory feast for the audience! The exhibition is displayed in front of The Jamii Hub, at the corner of The Esplanade & Berkeley St, from the spring to the Fall of 2023. Unveiling: Saturday, March 25, 2023 On display from March to September 2023 In Partnership with As part of CREDITS Photographer: Gillian Mapp Project Lead: Afnan Yakot Audio Editors: Gillian Mapp, Isorine Marc, and Jeremy Glenn RBC Emerging Artist Mentor: Vanessa Magic Participants: Pelin and Denise, Lily and Daniella, Natalia and Vlad, Noriko and Alina, Kei and Kenneth, Noeline and Francesa, Ghader and Huda ARTISTIC STATEMENT BY GILLIAN MAPP Journey from…explores unfolding stories of the journey beyond the destination. To know where we are going, we must understand where we have been. Journey from… shares the stories of women who have contributed to the mosaic of Canada by celebrating their place of origin. By remembering each individual's experience, we add to the collective memory to truly feel seen and alive. In creating these portraits I intended to capture the essence of past and present by examining collective migration histories. By exploring the journey that brought these women to where they are right now. I felt the importance of being a bridge for untold stories to be heard while shaping my own understanding of the broader communities. With this in mind, this project is about much more than recording history. It's about inspiring change for future generations. This exhibit shares stories of people who sought safety, new opportunities, and even family reunification, with the promise of better lives despite leaving so much behind. Home is now their place in Canada, but they can always remember where their identity was born. The portraits are accompanied by intergenerational conversations about each woman’s experience and emphasize that the journey is just as important as the destination. These stories amplify First Generation Canadians by giving them a platform to be heard. As they balance the challenges of the displacement of leaving their home and the overwhelming undertaking to start new in a foreign land. The power of image-making is its ability to change our perception of the world and, in turn, influence history. Everyone has a destination, but the journey is theirs to make. Click HERE to read more about photographer Gillian Mapp Noriko & Kei - Journey From Japan Click HERE to listen Noriko and Kei story Pelin - Journey From Turkiye Click HERE to listen Pelin story Noeline - Journey From Uganda Click HERE to listen Noeline story Ghader - Journey From Syria Click HERE to listen Ghader story Lily - Journey From Kenya Click HERE to listen Lily story Natalia - Journey From Ukraine Click HERE to listen Noeline story Special thanks to Supported by

LAINI - Assumption of Risk I hereby acknowledge and accept all risks, dangers, and hazards, including the possibility of personal injury, death, or loss of personal property, that may arise from or be associated with my child’s attendance at LAINI Workshops, whether on the premises or off-site. In the event of a medical emergency, I authorize the staff at Jamii to seek appropriate medical assistance for my child if necessary. By checking this box, I confirm that I understand and agree to the terms outlined in this assumption of risk form.

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) Out of gallery PHOTO CREDITS

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

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Morningstar Quill Photographer website Morningstar Quill is a self-taught photographer who has developed a unique style and approach to photography through years of experimentation and exploration. Born and raised in Pikangikum, she discovered her passion for photography at a young age and has been refining her skills ever since. Without formal training in photography, Morningstar turned to books, online tutorials, and experimentation to hone her craft. She spent countless hours studying the work of other photographers, analyzing their techniques and styles, and incorporating what she learned into her own work. Morningstar's work is characterized by capturing just anything nature and wildlife. She has a keen eye for capturing the essence of detail, whether it be landscapes, portraits, or street photography. Morningstar Quill continues to push the boundaries of her craft, always experimenting with new techniques and approaches to capture the world around her. She remains committed to her passion for photography and looks forward to sharing her unique perspective with the world for years to come. << BACK TO ARTISTS