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The Jamii Hub turns into a painting sanctuary once every month on Thursdays! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / VISUAL ARTS / ANCESTRAL VISIONS - NOVEMBER 2024 CREATING Thursday 7 pm ANCESTRAL VISIONS November 2024 November 7, 2024 from 7 PM to 9 PM Facilitator: Ibrahim Abusitta In this workshop, under the guidance of artist Ibrahim Abusitta, participants will be guided through basic acrylic painting techniques to create a family portrait. Using personal photographs of relatives and ancestors as source material, participants will have opportunities to share and paint their personal stories and memories. Join us for this reflective painting workshop – and bring photos of your relatives and ancestors to explore family portrait techniques with acrylic. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Cycle Workshops Reminders 🔔 Want a heads-up? Sign up to receive a monthly email reminder when Cycle workshop registrations open. First name* Last name* Email* REMIND ME Photos by Afnan Yakot, Ghader Bsmar, Hadeal Karrar Photo Credit: Unknown Ibrahim Abusitta Ibrahim Abusitta is a Palestinian-Canadian visual artist who lives and works in Toronto. He graduated from the Fine Art Photography program at OCAD U. After graduating, his practice shifted from photography as he evolved into a self-taught painter. UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Wed, Nov 04 November Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 04, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Explore linocut printing and collaborative storytelling in a four-week visual arts workshop with Jieun Kim. +3 more Wed, Nov 11 November Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 11, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Explore linocut printing and collaborative storytelling in a four-week visual arts workshop with Jieun Kim. See All Wed, Nov 18 November Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 18, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Explore linocut printing and collaborative storytelling in a four-week visual arts workshop with Jieun Kim. See All Wed, Nov 25 November Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 25, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Explore linocut printing and collaborative storytelling in a four-week visual arts workshop with Jieun Kim. See All

INDOOR ACTIVITIES / BELONGING - OLDER ADULTS / VISUAL ARTS / WATERCOLOUR PAINTING BELONGING Visual Arts Workshops For Older Adults WATERCOLOUR PAINTING SEPTEMBER 2026 Tuesdays, September 1, 8, 15, 22, 29, 2026 from 11:30 AM to 1 PM Facilitator: Yasir Hameed Watercolour painting with Yasir Hameed | All materials included Spend five Tuesday afternoons learning how watercolour behaves on the page and what you can do with it. This September, artist Yasir Hameed leads Jamii’s Belonging Older Adults community through a hands-on watercolour painting series, starting with foundational techniques and gradually giving participants more confidence to make their own creative choices. Each session begins with a short demonstration before participants have time to paint, practise, and receive one-on-one guidance from Yasir. Over the five weeks, the group will work with brush handling, colour mixing, washes, layering, and texture. These techniques build on one another, but every session also results in a finished painting, so participants can see their work take shape from week to week. By the end of the series, participants will have created a small portfolio of watercolour paintings and gained practical skills they can continue using on their own. All materials are provided at The Jamii Hub, so there is nothing to purchase or bring. No previous painting experience is needed. For older adults interested in watercolour classes, painting workshops, or community visual arts programs in Toronto, the series offers time to learn in a relaxed setting where questions and experimentation are encouraged. There is room to work carefully, try something again, and develop your own relationship with the medium while creating alongside neighbours. Yasir Hameed is a Toronto-based artist whose background in architecture, urban planning, and environmental studies informs the way he observes and represents places around him. His art often focuses on city life and physical surroundings through expressive composition and colour. Watercolour and soft pastels are central to his current practice, alongside photography and cyanotype printing. That close attention to place, structure, and visual detail comes into his approach as participants learn to see and paint with greater intention. Belonging participants register for the overall program once and can then drop in to the September visual arts sessions that work for them. Support free community arts Jamii keeps programs and events free so everyone can take part, without financial barriers. If you're able, you can support our $15 for 15 Years campaign and help us reach $15,000 by December 15 for Jamii's future programs at The Jamii Hub. Your donation moves the goal forward and is eligible for a charitable tax receipt. Donate here now. Jamii's Belonging Older Adults workshops are sponsored by Government of Canada - New Horizons for Seniors Program, Canada Council for the Arts, Government of Ontario, and St Lawrence Neighbourhood Association. REGISTER NOW YASIR HAMEED Yasir Hameed is a Toronto based artist, with a background in Architecture, Urban Planning, and Environmental Studies. He specializes in representational art, blending impressionistic and abstract elements to capture the physical world through vibrant and contrasting compositions. Yasir primarily focuses on urban life and landscapes, now working predominantly in watercolor and soft pastels. He is also an avid photographer, skilled in both digital and analog formats, and enjoys cyanotype printing. Photo by Afnan Yakot

The Jamii Hub in The Esplanade, Toronto is home to free workshops & activities based on different themes each month! Check out and register now. ARTISTS / Nova Bhattacharya Storybeing by Nova Bhattacharya September 9 to September 28, 2024 DOWNLOAD THE BROCHURE We are back on with our monthly themed programming. Join us for SEPTEMBER at Jamii and discover the rich programming our lead artist Nova Bhattacharya has curated for us. Nova chose the theme of "Storybeing": "Storybeing is my way of saying that art making is embodied storytelling. We are our stories; our bodies carry our histories, and our imaginations dream the future. Dancing, singing, adorning ourselves, creating literal and abstract representations of our feelings are the ways that we hold a mirror to humanity as well as provide a respite from it." - Nova Join us for “SEPTEMBER at Jamii” with Nova Bhattachaya for a month of storytelling through our bodies – exploring "Storybeing" through dance, music, book clubs, sewing and much more! Nova Bhattacharya is an award-winning, barrier-breaking, artist and cultural leader based in Tkaronto. Her creations are filled with lush, vivid images that invite the viewer on a journey of the imagination. Her creative inspiration is found in global movement traditions that are practiced on Turtle Island today. In 2008 she founded Nova Dance a diversiform company and a space for creation, conversations, and collaborations. Nova believes that dance expresses the essence of our humanity, and that art has tremendous transformative power to make the world a better place. Monday Dancing Facilitators: Neena Jayarajan, Blessyl Buan, Rachana Joshi MORE INFO Wednesday Sewing Facilitator: Anita Boey MORE INFO Saturday Mingling Lead Artist: Nova Bhattacharya MORE INFO Tuesday Discovering Book Club Artist: Brannavy Jeyasundaram MORE INFO Thursday Creating Painting Night Facilitator: Blessyl Buan MORE INFO Tuesday Discovering Culture Cloths Facilitator: Sabrine S. Hakam MORE INFO Thursday Creating Crafting Night Facilitators: Nova Bhattacharya, Rachana Joshi MORE INFO Tuesday Discovering Creative Writing Facilitator: Asha P MORE INFO Friday Singing Facilitator: Ganesh Iyer MORE INFO Photos by Jae Yang, Hadeal Karrar, Jeeya Ghandi NOVA BHATTACHARYA Nova Bhattacharya is an award-winning, barrier-breaking, artist and cultural leader based in Tkaronto. Her inspiration is found in identities, hybridities and diversities, manifesting creations that resonate with technical virtuosity and lush, vivid imagery. In 2008, she founded Nova Dance, embedding the principle that building for the margins ensures inclusion for everyone. Nova’s recent choreography Svāhā! features a cast of 22 performers proficient in more than 29 dance forms currently practiced on Turtle Island. Nova believes that dance expresses the essence of our humanity. Photo by Sabrine S. Hakam

The Jamii Hub turns into a creative writing sanctuary on Sundays! Led by Hidetaka Ishii, join us to embark on a three-week exploration through a blend of creative writing and performance techniques. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CREATIVE WRITING / ROOTS - MAY 2024 VERSIFYING Sunday 7 pm Discover your unique poetic voice! May 2024 ROOTS May 5 - 12 - 19, 2024 Facilitator: Hidetaka Ishii In this transformative workshop led by Hidetaka Ishii, you are invited to experience how art is an exploratory journey towards truth, generously shared with others. Through a blend of creative writing and performance techniques, you will embark on a three-week exploration. In the first session, you will learn to unearth your inner narratives and translate them onto the page. As the group progresses, we will transition into the realm of performance, drawing from foundational acting principles to bring our writings to life. Together, you will explore how actors prepare monologues and scenes at the most basic level, and apply that to our performance exercise. Hidetaka's ultimate hope is that this exploration and generous sharing can be applied to all areas of life, and can make anyone’s life a work of art. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Ghader Bsmar Hidetaka Ishii Hidetaka is a Toronto-based Japanese actor and a cultural connector. His creative flow lives in the resonance, friction, and inspiration that emerges at the intersection between Eastern and Western cultures. As a cultural connector, he spearheads the Japanese Canadian Creative Minds Meetups that has brought together 100+ artists and creatives under the Japanese diaspora. The actor in him LOVES bilingual / cross cultural works, and can be found adapting works to bilingual performance that blurs cultural and language barriers. Professional acting credits include “Pachinko”(2022), “Don’t Hang Up” (2023). He’s very excited to share his experiences and nuances deepened through his community work and performance training to the JAMII community! Instagram Photo by Jodi Laine Thibodeau

A free visual arts workshop in Toronto led by Jieun Kim. Learn linocut printmaking and create a collaborative zine. Materials included. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / VISUAL ARTS / PRINT, STORY, TOGETHER VISUAL ARTS Cycles Workshops PRINT, STORY, TOGETHER November 2026 Wednesday, November 4, 11, 18, and 25 from 7 PM to 9 PM Facilitator: Jieun Kim This visual arts workshop series is part of Jamii’s November Cycle and reflects the 2026 theme, It Feels Right . Led by Jieun Kim, the series brings together linocut printmaking and collaborative storytelling as tools for shared creative exploration. Participants are introduced to relief printing techniques through linocut, learning how to design, carve, and print original imagery. As the series progresses, individual practices come together through a collective storyboard and zine-making process. The workshops balance skill-building with collaboration, offering a space to explore how stories can be shaped visually and collectively. All materials are provided by Jamii, removing barriers and allowing participants to focus fully on the creative process. These workshops are open to participants of all experience levels. No prior printmaking or visual arts experience is required. Participants are encouraged to engage with curiosity and care for both individual and collective creation. Workshops are free for participants. Registration is required, and space is limited. Support free community arts Jamii keeps workshops free so everyone can take part, without financial barriers. If you’re able, you can support our $15 for 15 Years campaign and help us reach $15,000 by December 15 for Jamii’s future programs at The Jamii Hub. Your donation moves the goal forward and is eligible for a charitable tax receipt. Donate here now. Jamii’s Cycle Programs are sponsored by Canada Council for the Arts, Toronto Arts Council, TD Ready Commitment, Metcalf Foundation, Rama Gaming House, and Charitable Gaming. REGISTER NOW Cycle Workshops Reminders 🔔 Want a heads-up? Sign up to receive a monthly email reminder when Cycle workshop registrations open. First name* Last name* Email* REMIND ME Photos by Afnan Yakot Photo by Laura Dittmann JIEUN KIM Jieun Kim is a Korean-born street artist based in Toronto whose work is influenced by Korean folk art and natural imagery. Her practice spans murals, printmaking, and community-based projects, often emphasizing collaboration and shared authorship. Jieun has collaborated with Jamii through multiple public art initiatives, including youth-led mural projects created with LAINI participants in the St. Lawrence neighbourhood. UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Wed, Nov 04 November Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 04, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Explore linocut printing and collaborative storytelling in a four-week visual arts workshop with Jieun Kim. +3 more Wed, Nov 11 November Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 11, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Explore linocut printing and collaborative storytelling in a four-week visual arts workshop with Jieun Kim. See All Wed, Nov 18 November Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 18, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Explore linocut printing and collaborative storytelling in a four-week visual arts workshop with Jieun Kim. See All Wed, Nov 25 November Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 25, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Explore linocut printing and collaborative storytelling in a four-week visual arts workshop with Jieun Kim. See All

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Karen Lam Acting, Visual Arts Karen Lam was born and raised in Toronto, Ontario. She has starred in the short film "SOLITUDE" (2021) that was nominated in the NYC Film Festival, and a finalist in Beyond the Curve International Film Festival. She was also one of the actors of Jamii's Unlocked (2020). In 2023, Karen performed in Mudlark, presented to 400 spectators in David Crombie Park, produced by Jamii. website << BACK TO ARTISTS

COMMUNITY PROJECTS / PARTNERSHIPS / SHE AMONG MANY SHE AMONG MANY Photo Exhibition PARTNERSHIP WITH WEBER SHANDWICK May to August 2025 Workshops Led by Sabrine S. Hakam and Isorine Marc When Jamii and Weber Shandwick’s teams first met in the fall of 2024, little did we know we were about to embark on such a rich and creative journey - one that asked each team member of the Health Department to step out of their comfort zone, try something new, and come together to create a powerful and cohesive piece of art. Led by photographer Sabrine S. Hakam and Jamii’s Director, Isorine Marc, the team took part in an artistic adventure that explored the connection between a chosen deity and each individual's personal interpretation of health - often incorporating meaningful cultural references. The process asked participants to select a deity, envision how to represent them in a self-portrait, bravely step in front of the camera, curate their photos, develop a title and description for their vision, and then collaborate as a group to craft a title for the exhibit and a shared artistic statement. This was a unique opportunity to co-create a vision that sparks dialogue around health and communication, while also offering insights that can enrich the work Weber Shandwick do with their clients. Thank you to Marlo Taylor for her leadership in guiding this project, to each team member for trusting the process and fully engaging, and to the leadership at Weber Shandwick for supporting a project with the potential to create meaningful ripple effects across the company. Find out more about Weber Shandwick HERE . PHOTO EXHIBITION: ARTISTIC STATEMENT BY THE HEALTH TEAM, WEBER SHANDWICK Using photography as a form of expression, our Health Team at Weber Shandwick explored how we can apply the lens of health, womanhood and strength to both our work and our lives. What emerged from this creative process with Jamii was a powerful reflection on individuality, connection, and purpose. Each woman on our team represents a unique story - distinct in identity, experience, and perspective. Yet together, we form something greater than the sum of our parts. Our roles as women are multifaceted - caregivers, leaders, advocates, creators - and these roles shape not only who we are, but how we show up in the world. To witness the world as a woman is to embrace challenge and rise above it - and when we come together, our stories and strengths intertwine to create something unstoppable. As healthcare storytellers, we have a responsibility to integrate ourselves into the lives and experiences of others. Only then can we authentically advocate not only for women but also for everyone. Health means something different to each of us, and that diversity is what makes our work so impactful. Health isn’t linear. It’s complex, evolving, and sometimes unpredictable. But as a team, we grow stronger by embracing those complexities, supporting each other, and finding strength in the unknown. Together, our diverse interpretations of health paint a holistic, inclusive, and deeply human picture - one we carry into every story we tell. Photos by Iris Unlu, Isorine Marc

INDOOR ACTIVITIES / BELONGING - OLDER ADULTS / VISUAL ARTS / PRINTMAKING BELONGING Visual Arts Workshops For Older Adults PRINTMAKING APRIL 2026 Tuesdays, April 7, 14, 21, 28, 2026 from 11:30 AM to 1:00 PM Facilitator: Fatema Huzaifa Ali In April, we’re welcoming Fatema Huzaifa Ali to The Jamii Hub for a printmaking series that centres memory, language, and self-expression. Together, we’ll work with relief printmaking to turn a meaningful word into a series of prints. The word can come from your first language, a personal memory, or a value you’ve carried with you over time. This workshop welcomes many languages and cultural expressions, and keeps the focus on storytelling, process, and shared experience. Across four sessions, participants will move through reflection, sketching, carving, and printing with step-by-step guidance and plenty of time to work at your own pace. You’ll begin by choosing a word and developing a design through drawing and mark-making. From there, you’ll transfer your design onto a lino block and learn safe, beginner-friendly carving techniques. In the later sessions, you’ll learn inking and printing methods, create your first prints, and experiment with variations in composition and repetition. The final session focuses on finishing a set of prints, with an option to arrange works together and share reflections on the process and what the word has come to hold. This work was made possible through ArtWorksTO, in partnership with City of Toronto, Toronto Arts Foundation and OCAD University. Support free community arts Jamii keeps programs and events free so everyone can take part, without financial barriers. If you're able, you can support our $15 for 15 Years campaign and help us reach $15,000 by December 15 for Jamii's future programs at The Jamii Hub. Your donation moves the goal forward and is eligible for a charitable tax receipt. Donate here now. These workshops are open to people of all experience levels. No background in visual arts is required. Participants are encouraged to take part in a way that feels comfortable and meaningful to them. Workshops are free for participants. Registration is required, and space is limited. Jamii's Belonging Older Adults workshops are sponsored by Government of Canada - New Horizons for Seniors Program, Canada Council for the Arts, Government of Ontario, and St Lawrence Neighbourhood Association. REGISTER NOW FATEMA HUZAIFA ALI Fatema Huzaifa Ali is a visual artist and arts educator from Pakistan, now based in Canada. Working across printmaking, mixed media, and participatory formats, her practice reflects on healing, memory, and transformation through layered marks, repetition, and material exploration. Her work has been exhibited internationally, including in Pakistan, Dubai, Belarus, and the United States. Alongside her studio practice, Fatema works across schools, museums, and community spaces, and is involved with the Aga Khan Museum’s Education Department. She brings a thoughtful approach to facilitation that makes room for curiosity, experimentation, and connection. Photo Credit: Unknown

October 2026 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / DANCING / TAP INTO RHYTHM DANCING Cycles Workshops October 2026 TAP INTO RHYTHM Monday, October 5, 19 and 26 from 7 PM to 8:30 PM Facilitator: Elise McGrenera 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. Important registration note: Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. A temporary change to Cycle this fall For the remainder of 2026, Cycle workshops will have a temporary participant fee of $15/session so we can keep the program going through the end of the year. If you are able, you can choose a Pay It Forward ticket and help make a workshop available to another neighbour. As Pay It Forward tickets are purchased, or registered participants release spots they can no longer use, Community Tickets may become available at no cost for anyone for whom the workshop fee is a barrier. No explanation is needed. If you don’t see a Community Ticket available, please check back. New tickets may be released as we get closer to the workshop. Cycle will return to free workshops in 2027. Jamii’s Cycle Programs are sponsored by Canada Council for the Arts, Toronto Arts Council, TD Ready Commitment, Metcalf Foundation, Rama Gaming House, and Charitable Gaming. REGISTER NOW Cycle Workshops Reminders 🔔 Want a heads-up? Sign up to receive a monthly email reminder when Cycle workshop registrations open. First name* Last name* Email* REMIND ME Photos by Hadeal Karrar Photo by Hadeal Karrar ELISE MCGRENERA Elise McGrenera is a tap dancer from Vancouver, BC, now based in Toronto. She is an alumna of the School at Jacob’s Pillow, where she joined the 2019 tap dance program and performed in the school’s annual fundraiser at the Ted Shawn Theatre. Elise was a featured dancer in the Vancouver premiere of Danny Nielsen’s On Foot and returned for its 2023 BC tour. She has also performed in Jeffrey Dawson and Friends and co-founded the tap dance collective Boys’ Club in 2022, presenting work across Canada and Europe. Most recently, Elise was selected as an artist researcher for Dancemakers’ Shoe Dreams project, designing custom tap shoes featured in a performance during Nuit Blanche 2025. 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. Elise continues to be active in Toronto’s tap dance and jazz music community through performance, research, and teaching. Upcoming Dates UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Mon, Oct 26 October Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Oct 26, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Feel the beat and move together. A tap dance workshop series led by Elise McGrenera. +2 more

The Jamii Hub turns into a creative writing sanctuary on Sundays! Led by Sharon Zarita Adhiambo, join us for a series of creative writing and storytelling workshops inspired by this month's theme of "Motherland". INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CREATIVE WRITING / MOTHERLAND - APRIL 2024 VERSIFYING Sunday 7 pm Discover your unique poetic voice! April 2024 MOTHERLAND April 7 - 14 - 21, 2024 Facilitator: Sharon Zarita Adhiambo For 3 sessions in April, craft artist, creative writer and entrepreneur Sharon Zarita Adhiambo is facilitating a series of creative writing and storytelling workshops inspired by this month's theme of "Motherland". Participants will dive into journaling their thoughts and ideas through a collection of writing activities and prompts. If you are interested in uncovering your own story, learning to craft a spoken word piece, and space to poetically reflect and journal, this workshop series is for you! You will have the opportunity to share your spoken piece at the Thursday Mingling event on May 2nd. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Isorine Marc Sharon Zarita Adhiambo Sharon Zarita Adhiambo is a Kenyan arts administrator, socio-cultural entrepreneur and creative leader whose heart beats for holistic development of people and communities through artistic experiences. Zarita has worked in the arts sector in Kenya and Canada producing projects centered on self expression, social integration, and cultural celebration. Her work is grounded in creating barrier-free spaces where everyone can explore the artist in them while remaining authentic in their identity and stories. Apart from being an arts worker, she strengthens the industry as a mentor, consultant and advocate. Zarita holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Arts Administration from Humber College and is now the Arts Program Officer at Assembly Hall. She is also the founder of Sekoya East Africa, a non-profit that provides emerging crafters and other artists in Kenya with accessible professional development resources and mentorship to advance their careers locally, produce artwork with a global influence and have a peer community to belong to. Since 2019, she has worked with Jamii in various capacities and projects with the most recent being script writing for Mudlark Show, 2023. Writing and storytelling are Zarita’s expressive companions, enriching all of her life’s seasons. She is delighted to join Jamii’s community this April for the Versifying workshops and explore these art expressions alongside Waleed. Instagram Photo Credit: Unknown

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

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

INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY CELEBRATIONS / 2023 INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY Jamii's Annual Celebrations 2023 - 5th Year! 5th Annual National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebrations June 21 at 6 pm David Crombie Park - The Esplanade & Princess St You are invited to join us for an unforgettable celebration of National Indigenous Peoples Day in David Crombie Park! Host Jim Adams will take you on a journey of uncovery with the unveiling of a photo exhibition by Morningstar Quill (from Pikangikum First Nation), singing and drumming by Circle of Cedar Singers, the unveiling of a new mural on the exterior wall of the St Lawrence Community Recreation Centre by artist Darwin Peters (from Pikangikum First Nation) and tasty food by Tea-N-Bannock Restaurant. The evening is an opportunity to celebrate the work of Indigenous artists, discover new artworks for our shared space, and deepen your knowledge of Indigenous peoples and their rich culture. Photos by Jae Yang

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

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Morningstar Quill Photographer 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. website << BACK TO ARTISTS

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 keeps workshops free so everyone can take part, without financial barriers. If you’re able, you can support our $15 for 15 Years campaign and help us reach $15,000 by December 15 for Jamii’s future programs at The Jamii Hub. Your donation moves the goal forward and is eligible for a charitable tax receipt. Donate here now. Jamii’s Cycle Programs are sponsored by Canada Council for the Arts, Toronto Arts Council, TD Ready Commitment, Metcalf Foundation, Rama Gaming House, and Charitable Gaming. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Cycle Workshops Reminders 🔔 Want a heads-up? Sign up to receive a monthly email reminder when Cycle workshop registrations open. First name* Last name* Email* REMIND ME Photos by 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, Oct 26 October Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Oct 26, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Feel the beat and move together. A tap dance workshop series led by Elise McGrenera. +2 more

The Jamii Hub turns into a movie and performance sanctuary on Wednesdays! In March, join us to watch The Key From Spain, Flamenco, Latcho Drom with the lead artist Tamar Ilana, and Dr Judith Cohen. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / WEDNESDAY WATCHING / MIGRATION - MARCH 2024 WATCHING Wednesday 7 pm Live performances, films and documentaries Migration March 2024 March 6, 13, 20, 2024 Leads: Tamar Ilana & Judith Cohen March 6 Led by Tamar Ilana and Judith Cohen Documentary: The Key From Spain Embark on a captivating journey with us at Wednesday Watching series! This week, we invite you to immerse yourself in the 40-minute documentary, "The Key from Spain," showcasing the remarkable story of Flory Jagoda, a legendary Sephardic singer hailing from Bosnia. Join us for an evening filled with inspiration and cultural richness. Following the documentary, we are delighted to have Tamar Ilana and Judith Cohen lead an engaging conversation, delving into the profound themes explored in the film. Get ready to be part of a beautiful dialogue as we reflect on the extraordinary life and musical legacy of Flory Jagoda. March 13 Led by Tamar Ilana and Matt Selick Documentary: “Flamenco” by Carlos Saura Join us for our Wednesday Watching and discover “Flamenco” - a documentary that includes performances from some of the best flamenco singers, dancer and guitarists. With the masterful cinematography of the Oscar-winning director of photography Vittorio Storaro, director Carlos Saura brings with this film the "Light of Flamenco to the World". As part of the program, we will have discussions and performances led by Tamar Ilana and Matt Selick, which promise a memorable evening. March 20 Led by Judith Cohen and Demetrios Petsalakis Film “Latcho Drom” by Tony Gatlif For our third night of Wednesday Watching under the artistic lead of Tamar Ilana, join us to watch “Latcho Drom” ("safe journey"), which is a 1993 French film directed and written by Tony Gatlif. The movie is about the Romani people's journey from north-west India to Spain, consisting primarily of music. The film was screened in the Un Certain Regard section at the 1993 Cannes Film Festival. Discussions and complementing performances will be offered by Judith Cohen and Demetrios Petsalakis. REGISTER NOW Photos by Karen Lam and Iris Unlu 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 Photo by Cassandra Popescu

12 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / SATURDAY MINGLING / SMALL AND MIGHTY - MAY 2025 MINGLING Saturday 7 pm Monthly Community Gathering: A night filled with music, dance, and other art forms! SMALL AND MIGHTY May 2025 May 24, 2025 Lead Artist: Heidi Chan Join us at The Jamii Hub for a vibrant evening of music, connection, and celebration! Saturday Mingling on May 24 brings our May Cycle to a joyful close with performances that lift the spirit and bring neighbours together. The evening will open with a performance by Nova Scotia-raised, Ottawa-based folk singer-songwriter Malia Rogers. Through stirring Celtic and bluegrass-inspired melodies, Malia’s songs explore identity, relationships, loss, and growth, inviting listeners to find kindness, forgiveness, and self-compassion along the way. Following Malia, experience a powerful performance by the Japanese folk ensemble TEN TEN, featuring Aki Takahashi and May Cycle lead artist Heidi Chan. TEN TEN is a living, evolving experiment rooted in Japanese folk traditions, blending music and movement to create an unforgettable shared experience. This is a wonderful opportunity to gather with friends, neighbours, and artists, celebrate creativity, and enjoy a night of heartfelt performances. Spots are limited, so be sure to register today! This Saturday Mingling event is part of Jamii's May cycle, guided by lead artist Heidi Chan, and centred around the theme of Small & Mighty. Through these workshops, activities, and performances, we will reflect on how ancient teachings and simple acts connect us to nature, to each other, and to the cycles of life. “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 Laura Dittmann Heidi Chan Heidi Chan was born in Canada to parents from Hong Kong and has worked with music and sound for theatre, dance, and film. Heidi plays bamboo flutes, percussion, and synthesizers, and is a member of Japanese folk music ensemble ten ten. Heidi also collaborates frequently with cross-cultural and experimental music collectives and has performed at various arts festivals, including Women From Space, XAvant, Eclectic Electric, and Older and Reckless. In theatre, Heidi has worked at the Shaw Festival and Blyth Festival and has provided sound design and original music for productions with Theatre Gargantua, Outside the March, Company of Fools (Ottawa), and others. Heidi currently teaches music and sound design at Toronto Metropolitan University and Humber College. Photo by Sabrine S. Hakam

A free community singing workshop in Toronto led by Martin Gomes. Explore voice, breath, and shared expression in an inclusive space. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / SINGING / SINGING YOUR HEART OUT SINGING Cycles Workshops SINGING YOUR HEART OUT February 2026 Monday, February 2, 9, Tuesday, February 17, and Monday, February 23 from 7 PM to 8:30 PM Facilitator: Martin Gomes This singing workshop series is part of Jamii’s February Cycle and reflects the 2026 theme, It Feels Right. Led by facilitator Martin Gomes, the workshops invite participants into a shared vocal space centred on expression, listening, and connection. The guiding idea of “singing your heart out” encourages people to trust their voice and respond to what feels right in the moment. Participants explore voice through breathing exercises, warm-ups, and gentle prompts that shape each session. Drawing from musical traditions such as spirituals, boleros, and beatboxing, the workshops support exploration without pressure or hierarchy. Each gathering is shaped by the people in the room, allowing the experience to remain responsive and grounded. These workshops are open to people of all experience levels. No background in singing or music is required. Participants are encouraged to take part in a way that feels comfortable and meaningful to them. Workshops are free for participants. Registration is required, and space is limited. Support free community arts Jamii keeps workshops free so everyone can take part, without financial barriers. If you’re able, you can support our $15 for 15 Years campaign and help us reach $15,000 by December 15 for Jamii’s future programs at The Jamii Hub. Your donation moves the goal forward and is eligible for a charitable tax receipt. Donate here now. Jamii’s Cycle Programs are sponsored by Canada Council for the Arts, Toronto Arts Council, TD Ready Commitment, Metcalf Foundation, Rama Gaming House, and Charitable Gaming. REGISTRATIONS CLOSED Cycle Workshops Reminders 🔔 Want a heads-up? Sign up to receive a monthly email reminder when Cycle workshop registrations open. First name* Last name* Email* REMIND ME Photos by Jeeya Gandhi, Mariana Hernandez, Hadeal Karrar MARTIN GOMES Martin Gomes is an Afro/Latino, queer writer and composer based in downtown Toronto. Their facilitation practice brings together voice, rhythm, and storytelling, informed by years of community-based teaching with Unity Charity, Lakeshore Arts, JAYU, VIBEArts, tdsbCREATES, and Crossroads Theatre. Martin has also performed with Opera Atelier, CBC, Harbourfront Centre, Nuit Blanche, and TO Live. They joined Jamii as a workshop facilitator during the February Cycle in 2025 led by Jonelle Sills, and as a performing artist at Saturday Mingling as part of May Cycle in 2024 led by Takako Segawa and we’re grateful to welcome them back. Photo by Jae Yang UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Mon, Nov 02 November Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 02, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing songs from across the Middle East in a five-week vocal workshop with Maryem Hassan Tollar. +3 more Mon, Nov 09 November Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 09, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing songs from across the Middle East in a five-week vocal workshop with Maryem Hassan Tollar. See All Mon, Nov 16 November Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 16, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing songs from across the Middle East in a five-week vocal workshop with Maryem Hassan Tollar. See All Mon, Nov 23 November Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 23, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing songs from across the Middle East in a five-week vocal workshop with Maryem Hassan Tollar. See All Mon, Nov 30 November Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 30, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing songs from across the Middle East in a five-week vocal workshop with Maryem Hassan Tollar. See All

2014 Basketball Court Mural 2014 This mural was co-created by 16 local youths Since 2014, this mural has gathered international recognition and has been featured in films, commercials, music videos and more! Check all the information about this project here

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

Write with poet Jody Chan in a creative workshop on poetry as political and personal practice. Leave with new writing and questions to explore. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CREATIVE WRITING / WHAT IS POETRY FOR? - MAY 2025 DISCOVERING Tuesday 7 pm Creative Writing May 2025 WHAT IS POETRY FOR? May 20, 2025 Facilitator: Jody Chan Join poet and community organizer Jody Chan for an evening of writing, reflection, and connection. Inspired by lineages of resistance poets like June Jordan, Suheir Hammad, and Aurora Levins Morales, this workshop explores poetry as both a creative and a political practice, a way of living in the world with attention, slowness, and care. Through a blend of creative prompts, readings, discussions, and writing exercises, you will be invited to explore your own relationship with poetry. No previous experience is needed. Whether you are new to writing or returning to the page, you will leave the session with a new piece of writing and deeper questions to continue your creative journey. Jody Chan brings a wealth of experience as the award-winning author of sick and impact statement , and is a passionate advocate for building community through storytelling and care. All are welcome, and sharing your writing is completely optional. For those who want to take their experience further and share their work, we invite you to join Saturday Mingling on May 24, a lively evening of artistic sharing where community members and artists come together to celebrate the creative journey. Spots are limited, so be sure to register today! This Tuesday Discovering - Creative Writing: Poetry as Practice workshop is part of Jamii's May cycle, guided by lead artist Heidi Chan, and centred around the theme of Small & Mighty. Through these workshops in dancing, painting, crafting, sewing, singing, and creative writing, we will reflect on how these ancient teachings resonate with our modern lives, connecting us to nature, the cycles of life, and our community. “This is an invitation to reinterpret the meaning of Small & Mighty, finding the joy and value in doing one thing, but doing it well by slowing down and zooming in.” - Heidi Chan. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Afnan Yakot Jody Chan Jody Chan (they/them) is a poet, care worker, and community organizer. They are the author of three books of poetry: sick (Black Lawrence Press 2020), winner of the 2021 Trillium Award for Poetry; impact statement (Brick Books 2024); and madness belongs to the people (Brick Books 2026). They are also a member of the Daybreak Poets Collective, and co-host of the podcast Poet Talk with Sanna Wani. Photo Credit: Unknown

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

Toronto Waterfront Marathon Fundraising GET INVOLVED / MARATHON / 2024 MARATHON FUNDRAISER 2024 October 19 & 20 Toronto Waterfront Marathon Fundraising This year marked a significant milestone for Jamii as we participated in the Toronto Waterfront Marathon for the very first time. Thanks to the incredible support of our dedicated participants, we are thrilled to share that we successfully raised $20,000! This achievement would not have been possible without the enthusiasm and generosity of everyone who joined us in this journey. Each step, each donation, and every effort contributed to making this fundraiser a success. We are deeply grateful to our runners, donors, volunteers, and supporters who helped us reach our goal. Your commitment to Jamii and the causes we champion will have a lasting impact, and we look forward to growing this initiative even further in the years to come. Participants of the 2024 Waterfront Marathon: Abdul-Hamid Oladipo: Raised $181.20 Afry Tajaddini: Raised $459.35 Alex Rice: Raised $1,216.27 Aparna Mookerjea: Raised $958.23 Arjun Jain: Raised $100 Blair O'Connor: Raised $532.63 Brenda Wootten: Raised $3,820.06 Carol Pasten: Raised $1,109.46 Dylan Peifer: Raised $191.69 Felix Watanabe: Raised $481.46 Folu Adewusi: Raised $180.96 Hamoon: Raised $1,726.17 Iris and Omelette: Raised $1,147.89 Isorine Marc: Raised $1,449.08 Jaden Kwan: Raised $194.18 Marc Daguro: Raised $183.85 May Chook: Raised $136.11 Meera Jain: Raised $100 Omelette and Nicole: Raised $2,523.26 Pablo Gonzalez Legendre: Raised $214.58 Paloma Gallego Oliva: Raised $218.54 Phoenix Stanshall: Raised $179.63 Row Iliescu: Raised $553.71 Sho Brooks: Raised $66.33 Simone VanderMeulen: Raised $194.18 Tefetro Weekes: Raised $86.84 Yasseen Ashri: Raised $200 We are grateful for the support of Joystride Run Club for joining the marathon and fundraising for Jamii!

< Back Hoop Dancing Workshops A series of hoop dancing workshops, facilitated by Nimkii Owasamick. 2021 - March 2021 - MARCH Supported by Canadian Heritage. On March 27th 2021, 20 Esplanadians of all ages participated in a series of hoop dancing workshops, facilitated by Nimkii Owasamick (one household at the time). Workshop participants learnt more about this traditional and physical art form taught by Nimkii Osawamick. Nimkii Osawamick is Odawa/Potawatami from Wiikwemkoong Unceded First Nation, representing the Wolf Clan. Nimkii is a world renown dance artist specializing in the Hoop dance, and is the founder and CEO of http://dnastage.ca/ From a workshop participant: "Yesterday, my mom and I were fortunate to hear the Indigenous teachings and learn the basics of hoop dancing from Nimkii Osawamick. The way he shared the story of the Four Nations and the encouragement he demonstrated as we learned how to do hoop dancing truly tapped into my ongoing appreciation and gratitude of the arts and Indigenous Education with my community! Chi-Miigwetch to Nimkii for the workshop and Jamii Esplanade for hosting another educational and practical opportunity for me to learn and do!" To register, click below: http://closed

EMERGING ARTISTS Jamii's RBC Emerging Artist Program GILLIAN MAPP, PHOTOGRAPHY & VIDEOGRAPHY LEARNING EXPERIENCE WITH JAMII Through the RBC Emerging Artist project: I created a new body of work and presented my first solo exhibition titled Journey From… a photo and audio exhibit featuring the stories of 7 immigrant women, accompanied by intergenerational conversations with their children about the journey to Canada and their unique experiences. This project allowed for mentorship, which was a huge proponent for the evolution of my work, and allowed me to explore and expand on the kind of work I love to do: storytelling. The support from Jamii’s team was an incredible resource and provided me with the necessary tools, like audio recording equipment and studio space, to create this work. Also, working with Jamii - a hub for Esplanadians - allowed me to tap into the community they have built and focus this exhibit on sharing the stories of members of The Esplanade. This collection of stories is now a part of the community's history. Collaborating with Jamii, also brought me to Pikangikum First Nations community, to curate and produce a video project that invited its residents to record their intimate stories. We met with interested community members, and recorded interviews with them that we edited into short videos that share insight on who they are, and what their community [Pikangikum] means to them. The key thread in both of these projects is the importance of highlighting stories that usually go untold. I’m grateful to have been able to foster the development and completion of both these projects. SEE PROJECT SEE ARTIST'S PAGE GILLIAN MAPP: I started seeing images early on when I was younger, way before I even held a camera to conspire to make images I’d use my eyes to capture moments and make them permanent treasures in my mind’s eye. Back then, I saw the importance of documenting my story because it was clear that no one else would do it for me. The importance of recording history was instilled by my mothers determination to document every moment of our childhood. I remember every trip we made to drop off film roles, and patiently waiting for their development to reveal what she had captured. Since then, I’ve made photography a way to record history in an effort to change the way people see and remember the world. My photography is grounded in showcasing the beauty in the moments and people around me, and bringing untold stories to the forefront. My work includes portraiture, editorial and documentary style stills, and more recently film (motion). FUNDERS:

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Kristi Heath Stilt Walker Kristi Heath has been creating and performing stilt characters since God was a baby. Her performing career has taken her around the world and includes stints with Cirque du Soleil, Second City and three World Expos. website << BACK TO ARTISTS

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

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

INDOOR ACTIVITIES / LAINI / OUR BEST SELF LAINI Youth A Jamii initiative to encourage girls and young women to explore art and leadership! OUR BEST SELF June to September 2021 - Ages: 13-15 yrs old Led by Arlene Paculan Under the artistic leadership of Arlene Paculan, participants were invited to learn loving ways to create the greatest masterpiece - THEMSELVES! Through activities, discussions, and experiences, young women from the Esplanade neighbourhood got together each Tuesday through the Summer to explore ways to be their own greatest fan and showcase their best self, through different mediums of art forms. Curation process facilitated by Elle Alconcel, assisted by Isorine Marc REGISTRATIONS CLOSED Arlene Paculan is a singer, songwriter, musician, TV Host, and executive producer of her company Let’s Make Good Productions, Arlene was awarded the 2020 Urban Hero people's choice award in the arts category. She is a mentor and motivational speaker. Photo by White Balance Photography

The Jamii Hub turns into a creative writing sanctuary once a month on Tuesdays! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CREATIVE WRITING / TEKA LANG (JUST WAIT) - OCTOBER 2024 DISCOVERING Tuesday 7 pm Creative Writing October 2024 TEKA LANG (JUST WAIT) October 22, 2024 Facilitator: Patrick de Belen In the “TEKA LANG: Creative Writing Workshop”, poet, storyteller and lead curator Patrick de Belen will be guiding participants as they explore and practice different poetic styles originating from the Philippines. From the “Tanaga”, to the “Balagtasan” and epic poems, poets and writers of all levels will be invited to create their own pieces, and learn about how these styles of poetry have been used as a form of reflection, revolution and rest. Come and join us for a beautiful creative writing workshop on Tuesday, October 22nd at 7pm at the Jamii Hub with Patrick. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Shaimaa Yakout Patrick de Belen Patrick is an award-winning poet, filmmaker, educator, and storyteller across many mediums. His work often explores themes such as mental illness, the Filipino-Canadian experience, social justice, youth empowerment, advocacy, grief, and healing. He is best known for his poetic collaborations with the Toronto Raptors, the NFL, CBC, as well as his two spoken word EPs and numerous cine-poems and independent films that he has written and directed. When he isn’t on stage or writing, Patrick serves as an educator and youth mentor, working with institutions such as addiction centers, mental health organizations, libraries, schools, and even jails—advocating for storytelling opportunities and platforms in as many spaces as possible. Photo Credit: Unknown

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

The Jamii Hub in The Esplanade, Toronto is home to free workshops & activities based on different themes each month! Check out and register now. ARTISTS / Takako Segawa Roots by Takako Segawa May 5 to 25, 2024 DOWNLOAD THE BROCHURE In May, lead artist Takako Segawa is composing a month-long celebration of art culture exploration at The Jamii Hub. Under Takako's curation, everyone is invited to delve into the captivating theme of "Roots" - a theme that encourages a profound connection with the diverse origins that shape our identities, whether rooted in varied cultures or within the intricate tapestry of one's own self, transcending the geographical boundaries we call home. Reflecting on the multifaceted aspects of our lives, we are prompted to consider what constitutes our personal 'roots.' Is it the places we've called home, the ancestral origins that echo through our family history, or perhaps the intricacies of our gender identity? How have these profound elements influenced and manifested in our artistic endeavors? As we navigate this exploration, the belief in nurturing the metaphorical 'tree' of self becomes evident. Just as a tree draws strength and sustenance from its roots, so too can we find resilience and depth by nourishing the essence of who we are. Monday Dancing   Facilitator: Takako Segawa MORE INFO Wednesday Watching   Visit the page for the leads! MORE INFO Saturday Mingling   Lead Artist: Takako Segawa MORE INFO Tuesday Learning Book Club Facilitator: Eshe Mercer-James MORE INFO Thursday Creating Painting Night Facilitator: Andrew Patterson MORE INFO Sunday Sewing   Artist: Anita Boey MORE INFO Tuesday Learning Niche Artistic Practices Facilitator: Steve Cornelsen MORE INFO Thursday Creating Crafting Nights Facilitator: Ayami Terasawa MORE INFO Sunday Versifying   Facilitator: Hidetaka Ishii MORE INFO Tuesday Learning Culture Cloths Facilitator: Sabrine S. Hakam MORE INFO Friday Singing   Facilitator: Germaine Konji MORE INFO Photos by Jae Yang, Hadeal Karrar, Iris Unlu, Isorine Marc, May Roots, Anita Boey, Ghader Bsmar, Afnan Yakot 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. Photo by Sabrine S. Hakam

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

EMERGING ARTISTS Jamii's RBC Emerging Artist Program VRUNDA UPADHYAY, DANCE LEARNING EXPERIENCE WITH JAMII As part of Jamii’s Emerging Artist Program, supported by the RBC Foundation, Jamii invited Vrunda Upadhyay to strengthen her local presence and performance opportunity by participating in Wayo, Jamii’s Children Festival in August 2025. She received mentorship from established artist Nova Bhattacharya and collaborated closely with Jamii’s Artistic and Executive Director, Isorine Marc, as well as spoken word artist Patrick de Belen. At Wayo, Vrunda performed for over 600 people over 4 days, with two performances per day! In addition to the festival experience, Vrunda and Nova benefited from dedicated studio time to explore traditional dance in a modern context, fostering experimentation, dialogue, and creative growth. Vrunda Upadhyay is a proficient South Asian dancer, choreographer, and versatile vocalist with over two decades of experience in Bharatanatyam and Indian music. Deeply committed to sharing the richness of classical arts with diverse audiences, she was honored with the Arts Acclaim Citizen Award by the City of Brampton for her contributions to the cultural landscape. She recently performed in the award-winning Melbourne production Temple of Desire, showcased at the Toronto Fringe Festival 2025. Reflecting on her mentorship experience, Vrunda shared: “Being part of Jamii’s Emerging Artists Program for the Wayo Children’s Festival 2025 has been a profoundly enriching experience that expanded my creative outlook and deepened my appreciation for collaboration and community-centered art. The program offered a nurturing space to explore how tradition and innovation can coexist in storytelling through movement.” Working with Nova Bhattacharya was one of the most transformative aspects of the experience. Vrunda noted: “Nova invested her time and energy to guide me through the world of contemporary dance, patiently helping me understand its nuances, freedom, and depth. She began by sharing her early dance videos, allowing me to witness her personal evolution as an artist and how she found her unique voice by blending classical precision with contemporary sensibility. These moments of mentorship were both inspiring and eye-opening. Nova encouraged me to explore beyond the boundaries of form while remaining grounded in my Bharatanatyam roots, showing me that tradition and innovation can beautifully complement each other when approached with openness and authenticity.” Collaborating with Patrick de Belen added another dynamic dimension: “His spoken word and storytelling brought rhythm, emotion, and narrative power to our shared work, expanding the possibilities of how dance and poetry can come together to communicate with younger audiences.” From Nova Bhattacharya’s perspective, mentoring Vrunda was equally rewarding: “The experience of working with Vrunda through Jamii’s Emerging Artists Program was an absolute joy. She brought a brave, bubbly energy into the studio; her exuberance shines through her dancing and radiates into everyone around her. As her mentor, I had the privilege of supporting her collaboration with Patrick de Belen, encouraging her to draw from her full range of creativity, her deep experience as a teacher of children, and her wisdom as a mother. She embraced every challenge with courage and curiosity, stepping beyond her comfort zone to not only dance but also sing onstage, embodying the heart of artistic risk and transformation. We also exchanged ideas and shared movement together. Revisiting some of my early contemporary explorations with her was nostalgic and invigorating. Vrunda’s thoughtful questions and keen insights reminded me of the ongoing dialogue between tradition and innovation that fuels our art forms. Watching her grow through this process affirmed my belief that mentorship is a shared dance of learning, discovery, and joy.” Special thanks to the RBC Foundation for supporting this program: Vrunda strengthened her practice as a performer and educator, enhanced her creative confidence, and reinforced her belief in art as a bridge between cultures, generations, and ideas. The program provided space for artistic exploration, collaboration, and experimentation while centering community engagement and the intergenerational sharing of knowledge and creativity. SEE PROJECT SEE ARTIST'S PAGE VRUNDA UPADHYAY: Vrunda Upadhyay is a proficient South Asian dancer, choreographer, and versatile vocalist with over two decades of experience in Bharatanatyam and Indian music. She is deeply committed to sharing the richness of classical arts with diverse audiences through performance and education. Vrunda was honored with the Arts Acclaim Citizen Award by the City of Brampton for her outstanding contributions to the cultural landscape. She recently performed in the award-winning Melbourne dance production Temple of Desire, showcased at the Toronto Fringe Festival 2025. FUNDERS:

EMERGING ARTISTS Jamii's RBC Emerging Artist Program ANA DA SILVA, PHOTOGRAPHY LEARNING EXPERIENCE WITH JAMII As part of the RBC Emerging Artist Program at Jamii, Ana Da Silva engaged in the creation of a photo exhibition, doubled-up with a series of mentorship sessions with a group of established artists, photographers, and curators. By Isorine Marc – Jamii’s Alchemist: “Back in the fall, when Ana Da Silva approached me with a project she wanted to explore, I was immediately moved by her kindness, her need for connection, her thirst for stories from our Elders, and her keen eye for the beauty carried by those who have lived long enough to wear their stories on their bodies. She told me about her idea—the Lila’s Project—and the support she needed to bring her vision to life. Without hesitation, we jumped on board, and Ana became one of Jamii’s 2024-2025 Emerging Artists, supported by the RBC Foundation, to bring this project to fruition. Her concept is simple yet powerful: she sits with older adults in The Esplanade neighbourhood (though, from the start, her project had no physical boundaries) and listens to their life stories with curiosity and intention. She captures what she hears, writes it down with empathy and care, and then invites her subjects for a photoshoot. She has met with nine of our Older Adults, and together, they have embarked on a beautiful journey of storytelling.” As part of this mentorship opportunity, Jamii is proud to support Ana in bringing this exhibition to life, and on May 25th at The Jamii Hub, her words and photographs will be unveiled. This will be an opportunity for Ana to share her work with an audience.   In addition to supporting the production of Ana’s project, Jamii also produced a beautiful video, directed by Laura Dittmann and Isorine Marc, with the support of Iris Unlu.   This Emerging Artist program was also the opportunity for Ana to be matched with tailored guidance in photography, storytelling, artistic identity, and project development, contributing meaningfully to her growth as an emerging artist and her work on a community-based photography project focused on the elderly. With Jae Yang (Photography – Technical & Professional Guidance): Jae and Ana explored the technical side of photography—discussing portrait techniques, lighting for events, and equipment preferences. Ana left the meeting with valuable takeaways not only related to technique but also professional practice and adaptability. Jae expressed admiration for Ana’s strong artistic vision and encouraged her to continue developing her unique voice while building confidence and business skills for a sustainable artistic career. With Catherine Sicot (Artistic Direction & Community Impact): Ana’s mentorship session with Catherine was emotionally resonant and reflective. They explored the deeper purpose behind Ana’s work with the elderly, drawing connections between storytelling and community engagement. Catherine encouraged Ana to reflect on how her project could serve the participants, not just the artist’s vision. With Sabrine S. Hakam (Artistic Identity & Self-Representation): Ana met twice with Sabrine: once for conversation and mentorship, and once for a professional portrait session. Their dialogue centered on redefining what it means to be an artist. Ana, previously identifying more as a commercial photographer, was deeply impacted by Sabrine’s experience navigating both artistic and professional spaces. This mentorship opened up new perspectives for Ana, helping her begin to see herself as a creative artist with a distinctive voice and purpose. With Eshe Mercer-James (Writing & Storytelling): Eshe reviewed Ana’s written narratives in detail, offering precise feedback on structure, clarity, and emotional rhythm. Although Ana initially felt exposed, Eshe’s thoughtful guidance gave her confidence and clarity in presenting stories that accompany her portraits. The mentorship helped Ana build skills in narrative crafting—essential for elevating the impact of her photo-based storytelling. With Zarita Z. (Editorial Guidance & Narrative Focus): Zarita provided Ana with critical feedback on the short versions of her written stories. Together, they discussed ways to refine structure and sharpen narrative focus. Jamii is deeply grateful to the RBC Foundation for supporting emerging artists like Ana Da Silva. Through this program, Ana has been able to explore new creative horizons, deepen her artistic practice, and lay the foundation for a future in meaningful, community-rooted art. PROJECT LINK COMING SOON SEE ARTIST'S PAGE ANA DA SILVA: Ana Silva is a Colombian-Canadian photographer based in Toronto. After years working in the corporate world, Ana made a bold shift to photography, driven by her passion for storytelling and human connection. Her project “Lila” is a tribute to older adults in her community, combining intimate portraits with personal narratives. Through this work, Ana shines a light on lives often left in the margins—stories full of creativity, resilience, and quiet strength. With each image, Ana invites viewers to slow down, listen, and see the extraordinary in the everyday. FUNDERS:

7 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / SATURDAY MINGLING / TEKA LANG (JUST WAIT) - OCTOBER 2024 MINGLING Saturday 7 pm Monthly Community Gathering: A night filled with music, dance, and other art forms! TEKA LANG (JUST WAIT) October 2024 October 26, 2024 Lead Artist: Patrick De Belen On Saturday, October 26th, at 7pm at The Jamii Hub, join the final closing event of “TEKA LANG (Just Wait)” curated by Patrick de Belen. Celebrating a month of arts programming and exhibitions by Filipinx artists across Toronto, enjoy some poetry (Patrick De Belen), dance (Candace Kumar) and musical performances (Victoria Sawal, Martin Gomes, Elijah Reyes), sing some karaoke, eat local Filipino cuisine, and pick up a book, painting, textile art, and a snack at our “TEKA LANG: Sari Sari Store”. Explore Filipinx culture and take a moment to reflect, relax and revel in the joy of community art. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Jae Yang Patrick de Belen Patrick is an award-winning poet, filmmaker, educator, and storyteller across many mediums. His work often explores themes such as mental illness, the Filipino-Canadian experience, social justice, youth empowerment, advocacy, grief, and healing. He is best known for his poetic collaborations with the Toronto Raptors, the NFL, CBC, as well as his two spoken word EPs and numerous cine-poems and independent films that he has written and directed. When he isn’t on stage or writing, Patrick serves as an educator and youth mentor, working with institutions such as addiction centers, mental health organizations, libraries, schools, and even jails—advocating for storytelling opportunities and platforms in as many spaces as possible. Photo by Sabrine S. Hakam

EMERGING ARTISTS Jamii's RBC Emerging Artist Program ANA HIGUERA, MULTI-DISCIPLINARY VISUAL ART & MUSIC LEARNING EXPERIENCE WITH JAMII In 2025, as part of Jamii’s Emerging Artist Program, supported by the RBC Foundation, Jamii invited Ana Maria Higuera Tirado (aka Ana Figo) to gain experience and expand her creative practice through two complementary projects: LAINI Land and Baraza Pikangikum. LAINI Land 2025, held in August at Restoule Provincial Park near North Bay, marked the fourth edition of this immersive youth program. Jamii invited 16 girls from The Esplanade community to engage in a five-day journey of discovery, creativity, and empowerment. Guided by a leadership team including Jamii’s Artistic Director Isorine Marc, Ana Figo as artist-in-residence, and other facilitators, participants explored artistic expression, outdoor skills, and teamwork. Ana led daily workshops in zine-making, visual arts, and creative writing, helping the girls explore their voices, stories, and creativity. The experience fostered confidence, independence, leadership, and creative expression, leaving a lasting impact on both participants and their families. Through LAINI Land, Ana reflected on her growth as an emerging artist, noting how she learned to facilitate creative exploration for youth, adapt workshops to different energy levels and personalities, and support participants in finding their own voices. She also gained hands-on experience in collaborative program design, leadership, and outdoor arts integration, strengthening her ability to balance artistic vision with logistical planning. In October 2025, Ana joined Jamii on its seventh visit to Pikangikum First Nation, a remote community in Northern Ontario of about 4,000 residents. Alongside Jamii’s Artistic Director Isorine Marc and musician Aline Morales, Ana co-led a series of music workshops for Grades 6-8 students, introducing Brazilian rhythms through drumming and culminating in a community performance. Approximately 235 students participated, and the school has since invited Jamii to expand the project in 2026. Alongside the music programming, Ana contributed to Jamii’s ongoing Video Portrait Series, documenting Elders, community leaders, and local youths to preserve voices, stories, and local histories for current and future generations. The 2025 series featured five new portraits, including stories from Lloyd Quill, Michaela Peters-Turtle, Eddie Quill, Valerie Strang, and McDonald Turtle. Through Baraza Pikangikum, Ana developed skills in community-based documentary work, learning to engage participants respectfully, capture authentic storytelling, and adapt to different cultural and logistical contexts. She reflected on the importance of listening, honoring participants’ voices, and collaborating with community members to produce work that is both artistically strong and socially meaningful. The experience also expanded her technical skills in photography and videography under varying conditions and with diverse subjects. Together, LAINI Land and Baraza Pikangikum exemplify Jamii’s commitment to providing emerging artists like Ana with transformative mentorship, professional growth, and deep insights into community-centered creative practice. Ana Maria Higuera is a self-taught photographer and videographer, whose work captures the poetry, beauty, and extraordinary moments of everyday life, focusing on nature, women, and community initiatives - from Toronto, to Restoule, to Pikangikum. We are grateful to the support of the RBC Foundation towards Jamii’s Emerging Artist program. SEE PROJECT SEE ARTIST'S PAGE ANA HIGUERA: 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. FUNDERS:

The Jamii Hub in The Esplanade, Toronto is home to free workshops & activities based on different themes each month! Check out and register now. ARTISTS / Aline Morales Forró by Aline Morales February 2 to 24, 2024 DOWNLOAD THE BROCHURE "FEBRUARY at Jamii" welcomes lead artist Aline Morales, who proposes "Forró" as our monthly theme. Aline will explore Forró with us, as it is a cornerstone of her existence and transcends mere music: Forró has offered Aline a profound sense of identity and belonging during her formative years in Brazil. In Toronto, she has witnessed the communal embrace of Forró and recognized its power to unite people and forge new bonds. This precious experience is something Aline wants to share with the Jamii community as part of our monthly themed programs. Forró is a genre of music and dance that originated in northeastern Brazil, particularly in the states of Pernambuco, Ceará, and Bahia. It encompasses a lively and rhythmic style of music characterized by the use of accordion, zabumba (a type of drum), and triangle. Forró music often features themes of love, romance, and rural life. In addition to its musical aspect, Forró is also a social dance with intricate footwork. The dance is known for its energetic and playful movements, which often involve spins, turns, and syncopated steps. Forró has evolved over the years and has become popular not only in Brazil but also internationally, with Forró festivals and events held in various countries around the world. It is celebrated for its infectious rhythm, joyful atmosphere, and the sense of community it fosters among dancers and enthusiasts. In conceptualizing "FEBRUARY at Jamii", Aline is offering to share the multidimensional essence of Forró, exploring its social, cultural, and environmental dimensions. Monday Dancing   Facilitator: Vinicius and Joseane MORE INFO Wednesday Watching   Facilitator: Maya Annik Bedward MORE INFO Saturday Mingling   Lead Artist: Aline Morales MORE INFO Tuesday Learning Book Club Facilitator: Eshe Mercer-James MORE INFO Thursday Creating Painting Night Facilitator: Julian Periquet MORE INFO Sunday Sewing   Facilitator: Anita Boey MORE INFO Tuesday Learning Niche Artistic Practices Facilitator: Juliana Bandeira MORE INFO Thursday Creating Crafting Nights Facilitator: Alejandra Higuera MORE INFO Sunday Versifying   Facilitator: Carolina Leite MORE INFO Tuesday Learning Culture Cloths Facilitator: Sabrine S. Hakam MORE INFO Friday Singing   Facilitator: Aline Morales MORE INFO Photos by Karen Lam, Mariana Hernandez, Isorine Marc, Ghader Bamar, May Chook, Afnan Yakot, Charlie Nyiti, Shaimaa Yakout ALINE MORALES Born and raised in Belo Horizonte, Brazil, Aline Morales began her performing career as a child training in capoeira. By the time she reached her early twenties, she had performed in a number of traditional and contemporary bands including Brazil’s most well-known maracatu group, Nacao Estrela Brilhante do Recife, then led by her mentor Mestre Walter de Franca. Since her arrival in Toronto in 2003, she has been a tireless promoter of the traditional rhythms of northeastern Brazil, continuing to perform with her percussion troupe, Baque de Bamba, at countless festivals and events. Now drawing upon a wider range of influences, Morales finds herself in a stage of musical exploration. Gone is the heavy wall of percussion, replaced instead by lush, eclectic arrangements, seamlessly blending traditional and modern instruments. At home in her new role as a solo artist, Morales “shines with mature confidence amid [producer] David Arcus’ outstanding orchestrations.” (David Dacks, the Grid). Her debut solo album ‘Flores, Tambores e Amores’ was nominated for a Juno Award, and her highly anticipated sophomore record is slated for release in spring of 2020. In addition to her solo accomplishments, Morales was selected as part of Canada’s Global Orchestra, Kuné, in 2016, and continues to perform and record with the ensemble as vocalist and percussionist. Photo by Sabrine S. Hakam

INDOOR ACTIVITIES / BELONGING - OLDER ADULTS / VISUAL ARTS / IMPRESSIONIST PAINTING BELONGING Visual Arts Workshops For Older Adults IMPRESSIONIST PAINTING OCTOBER 2026 Tuesdays, October 6, 20, 27, 2026 from 11:30 AM to 1 PM Facilitator: Mariana Hernandez Impressionist-inspired painting on canvas with Mariana Hernandez This October, artist Mariana Hernandez returns to The Jamii Hub for a three-part painting series inspired by Impressionism. Through close looking, drawing, brushwork, and layered colour, Belonging Older Adults participants will create their own paintings while learning from the techniques and approaches associated with artists such as Claude Monet, Camille Pissarro, and Édouard Manet. The series begins by looking together at examples of Impressionist painting and talking about what makes these works recognizable, from loose brushwork and changing light to the way artists captured everyday places and moments. Participants will then turn to their own canvases, beginning with a rough drawing based on one of two reference images: the Berczy Fountain or a Man and Child image. The second workshop moves into painting. Mariana will introduce participants to longer painting brushes and demonstrate ways of holding and moving the brush to create looser, more expressive marks. The group will follow the painting process step by step, building colour and form gradually rather than trying to finish everything at once. During the final session, participants can continue developing finer details and adding layers to their painting. Those who finish early may begin another work, depending on the size and pace of their first piece. For older adults looking for free painting workshops or beginner-friendly visual arts programs in downtown Toronto, this series offers a supportive way to spend time with painting while learning practical techniques. No previous painting experience is needed, and materials including canvases, paints, brushes, palettes, pencils, and reference images are provided. Originally from Chile, Mariana is a Toronto-based artist whose work is strongly influenced by the city’s waterfront and urban spaces. She studied Fine Art at OCAD University, and her paintings are known for vibrant colour, confident line work, and a close attention to water and city life. Her familiarity with painting Toronto places makes her a natural guide for a series that begins with well-known local imagery. Belonging participants register for the overall program once, then can drop in to the October sessions. If you already receive Belonging updates by email, you are already registered. Support free community arts Jamii keeps programs and events free so everyone can take part, without financial barriers. If you're able, you can support our $15 for 15 Years campaign and help us reach $15,000 by December 15 for Jamii's future programs at The Jamii Hub. Your donation moves the goal forward and is eligible for a charitable tax receipt. Donate here now. Jamii's Belonging Older Adults workshops are sponsored by Government of Canada - New Horizons for Seniors Program, Canada Council for the Arts, Government of Ontario, and St Lawrence Neighbourhood Association. REGISTER NOW MARIANA HERNANDEZ Mariana Hernandez is an artist and art educator based in Toronto’s Bayside waterfront community, where she lives and works among a collective of 80 live/work artists. Her paintings have been acquired by TRIDEL Inc., Daniels Corporation, and the Distillery District, and have also been featured in rentals by Facebook. Mariana studied Fine Art at OCAD University and continues to build her practice through ongoing self-directed learning. Originally from Chile, she draws inspiration from Toronto’s waterfront, and her work is known for bold line work, vibrant colour, and a love of water and urban landscapes. Alongside her studio practice, she teaches with several non-profit arts organizations. We’re grateful to have her back with our Belonging community at The Jamii Hub. Photo by Ghader Bsmar

The Jamii Hub turns into a singing sanctuary on Fridays! In March, join us to explore traditional celebrating songs from Souther Africa, led by Brian S. Moyo. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / SINGING / VOICES OF ANDES - APRIL 2025 SINGING Friday 7 pm VOICES OF ANDES April 2025 April 11 - 18 - 25, 2025 Facilitator: Jaime Stears Join us on April 11, 18, and 25 to step into the world of Andean music in Voices of the Andes, an interactive workshop led by Jaime Stears. In this 2-hour session, you’ll have the opportunity to discover traditional Andean instruments like the charango and the quena, learning about their unique sounds and cultural significance. Jaime will guide you through the history and role of these instruments in Andean music, providing an immersive experience that allows you to connect with the rhythms and melodies that have been passed down through generations. The workshop will conclude with a group singing session where you’ll learn and perform a traditional Andean song, celebrating the music that has shaped the cultural landscape of the Andes. Whether you’re a music enthusiast or a complete beginner, this is a chance to connect with the rhythms and melodies that have been passed down through generations. No experience required; Just bring your love for music and a willingness to sing! For those who want to take their experience further and perform, we invite you to join Saturday Mingling on April 26, a lively evening of artistic sharing where community members and artists come together to celebrate the creative journey. This Singing workshop is part of Jamii's April cycle, guided by lead artist Carolina Rojas, and centred around the theme of the Chakana—an ancestral Andean symbol representing the connection between the spiritual, earthly, and inner realms. Through these workshops in dancing, painting, crafting, sewing,singing and creative writing, we’ll reflect on how these ancient teachings resonate with our modern lives, connecting us to nature, the cycles of life, and our community. “This is an invitation to reinterpret the meaning of the Chakana, connecting its ancient wisdom with our modern experiences.” – Carolina Rojas. REGISTRATIONS CLOSED Cycle Workshops Reminders 🔔 Want a heads-up? Sign up to receive a monthly email reminder when Cycle workshop registrations open. First name* Last name* Email* REMIND ME Photos by Hadeal Karrar Jaime Stears Jaime Stears began his immersion in music by participating in a Chilean folkloric group at a very young age, where he learned about the music and dance of the different regions of Chile. He is a civil engineer by profession, but thanks to his 20 years of experience in music, he is a versatile musician and multi-instrumentalist. In Toronto he is part of the band Viento Sur, which pays tribute to Latin American roots music and other Latin bands. Photo Credit: Unknown UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Mon, Nov 02 November Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 02, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing songs from across the Middle East in a five-week vocal workshop with Maryem Hassan Tollar. +3 more Mon, Nov 09 November Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 09, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing songs from across the Middle East in a five-week vocal workshop with Maryem Hassan Tollar. See All Mon, Nov 16 November Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 16, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing songs from across the Middle East in a five-week vocal workshop with Maryem Hassan Tollar. See All Mon, Nov 23 November Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 23, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing songs from across the Middle East in a five-week vocal workshop with Maryem Hassan Tollar. See All Mon, Nov 30 November Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Nov 30, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing songs from across the Middle East in a five-week vocal workshop with Maryem Hassan Tollar. See All

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

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Gillian Mapp Photography I started seeing images early on when I was younger, way before I even held a camera to conspire to make images I’d use my eyes to capture moments and make them permanent treasures in my mind’s eye. Back then, I saw the importance of documenting my story because it was clear that no one else would do it for me. The importance of recording history was instilled by my mothers determination to document every moment of our childhood. I remember every trip we made to drop off film roles, and patiently waiting for their development to reveal what she had captured. Since then, I’ve made photography a way to record history in an effort to change the way people see and remember the world. My photography is grounded in showcasing the beauty in the moments and people around me, and bringing untold stories to the forefront. More info: https://www.jamii.ca/emerging-artists/gillian- website << BACK TO ARTISTS

INDOOR ACTIVITIES / SPECIAL EVENTS / JAMII GALA JAMII GALA Celebrating 15 Years of Artistic Excellence and Community Impact JAMII GALA October 14, 2026 - 7pm to 9:30pm Cocktail Reception | Guest Speakers | Awards Ceremony | Live Performances | Silent Auction | Buffet and Open Bar You are invited to the inaugural Jamii Gala, a formal fundraising evening celebrating 15 years of artistic excellence and community impact. The Gala brings together philanthropists, urban visionaries, community leaders, creatives, and friends who believe in the social impact of the arts and in the importance of investing in spaces where communities can thrive. As a fundraising event, with giving opportunities woven throughout the evening, the Gala is instrumental in ensuring that The Jamii Hub continues to thrive as a place to Be, Belong and Become. Every week, artists, youth, older adults, newcomers, and many others from the community walk through the doors of The Jamii Hub looking for connection. The Jamii Hub offers something increasingly rare in our city: a place where people feel included and welcomed, where they can make new friends, and where they can create alongside professional artists while artists themselves find meaningful opportunities to share their work with an interconnected community. The evening will feature guest speakers including Gala Chair David Crombie, whose leadership helped shape Toronto's Esplanade neighbourhood in the 1970s—the very community Jamii calls home—as well as Kelly Langgard, CEO of the Toronto Arts Council and Foundation, and Brendan Healy, Artistic Director of Canadian Stage. Guests will also enjoy live performances by powerhouse singer Jeremiah Sparks and breathtaking mezzo-soprano Queen Hezumuryango, with additional performances throughout the evening. The event will also feature a silent auction, including paintings by Pikangikum First Nation artist Darwin Peters and a curated selection of exceptional French wines, specially imported from France. Altogether, the evening promises to be inspiring, elegant, and memorable. Celebrating those who have made, and continue to make change in our communities, outstanding leaders will be honoured through the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award, Volunteer of the Year Award, Artistic Excellence Award, and Community Impact Award. By attending the Jamii Gala, you will not only enjoy an unforgettable evening of inspiring speakers, performances, and celebration - you will help ensure the Jamii Hub remains a place where all people can connect through the arts and simply Be, Belong and Become. Join Toronto's civic, cultural, and philanthropic leaders for an elegant evening celebrating the power of the arts to transform communities. Schedule 6 PM | Doors Open and Cocktail Reception 7 PM | Welcome Remarks and Entertainment 9:30 PM | Late Night Cocktail Reception Dress Code Classy & Elegant. Guests are encouraged to wear polished, elegant attire, including contemporary, traditional, or culturally inspired looks. Tickets $250 per person, including a $175 tax receipt Additional Giving Opportunities $150, $250, $500, $1,000 Join the circle of supporters helping carry The Jamii Way into its next 15 years. RESERVE YOUR TICKETS Photos by Jae Yang

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

2020 OUTDOOR EVENTS / WAYO / WAYO 2020 WAYO 2020 JAMII'S 1ST ANNUAL CHILDREN'S FESTIVAL Jamii produced its first official children’s outdoors festival for the Esplanade community: WAYO (a Swahili word that means footprint, symbolizing the journey to life). WAYO brought creativity to the hearts of our youngest community members as it awakened their imaginations and touched their souls through storytelling, song, dance and crafts. Supported by August 26 LOCATION Berkeley Castle & Berkeley Theatre CREDITS Performers: Indigenous artist Mahlikah Awe:ri with the performance “Becoming a Thunderbird”; Eman Hillawi and Alexandra Legendre for a lollipop lyra duet; and Bana Stegu and Arlene Paculan for a musical performance. This event was MC’d by Kristi Heath Artistic direction: Isorine Marc Event Production: Isorine Marc, Sharon Zarita SUPPORTERS AND PARTNERS Berkeley Castle , Canadian Stage Photos by: Delphy Photography

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Diséiye Thompson Fashion Design + Sewing Born and raised in Nigeria, Diséiye from an early age was drawn to the craftsmanship of tailoring, learning from her mother’s tailor to repurpose scraps of fabrics into garments for their siblings. Moving to Toronto at 15, Diséiye studied Contemporary Arts at Ryerson University and classically trained in design at The Toronto Academy of Design, graduating in 2016 showcasing her graduate collection at Toronto Fashion Week as well as Fly Beyond Cancer Benefit raising funds for survivors. website << BACK TO ARTISTS

INDOOR ACTIVITIES / SPECIAL EVENTS / THE ESPLANADE'S SOCCER SCREENINGS SPECIAL EVENTS THE ESPLANADE'S SOCCER SCREENINGS June 12, July 14, July 15, July 18, July 19 Live soccer screenings, community gathering, drinks and snacks available for purchase, with all proceeds supporting Jamii’s free arts programs. WHEN: Friday, June 12 - 3pm, Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina Tuesday, July 14 - 3pm, Semi-final Wednesday, July 15 - 3pm, Semi-final Saturday, July 18 - 5pm, Third-place play-off Sunday, July 19 - 3pm, Final WHERE: The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade Want to watch the big soccer matches with other people, but not at a sports bar and not alone at home? The Esplanade’s Soccer Screenings bring neighbours and soccer fans together at The Jamii Hub for select tournament matches in June and July. The series begins with Canada vs. Bosnia and Herzegovina on Friday, June 12, then continues with the semi-finals, third-place play-off, and final. Come for the match, stay for the community feeling, and enjoy a casual indoor gathering with people from The Esplanade and beyond. The screenings are free to attend. Drinks and snacks will be available for purchase, and every purchase helps support Jamii’s free arts programs, workshops, and community events at The Jamii Hub. These public screenings have been approved through FIFA’s public viewing process. Bring a friend or a neighbour if you’d like, and watch the games with community around you! Support free community arts Jamii keeps programs and events free so everyone can take part, without financial barriers. If you’re able, you can support our $15 for 15 Years campaign and help us reach $15,000 by December 15 for Jamii’s future programs at The Jamii Hub. Your donation moves the goal forward and is eligible for a charitable tax receipt. Donate here now. RSVP NOW

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Michael Caldwell Dancer, Choreographer, Artistic Director Michael Caldwell (he/him) is a choreographer, performer, curator, artistic director, producer, and arts advocate, based in Tkaronto, Canada. 
 Garnering critical acclaim, his choreography has been commissioned/presented throughout Canada at major festivals, in traditional venues and in site-responsive and community-engaged contexts. Michael’s most recent choreographic work responds to the 'site' in as many ways as can be conceived, and subverts traditional modes of viewing. He recently premiered ‘Two x 30’ - a large-scale performance/sound work as part of ArtworxTO: Toronto's Year of Public Art, and is currently working on two collaborative multidisciplinary performance projects. Caldwell is a two-time K.M. Hunter Charitable Foundation Artist Award finalist. 
 Michael has performed/collaborated with over 55 of Canada's esteemed performance creators/companies, working internationally and performing across North America, Europe, Asia, and Australia. His performances have earned him two (2) Dora Mavor Moore Awards for outstanding performance in dance. 

 Currently, Michael serves as Artistic Director at SummerWorks in Tkaronto, and as Programming Advisor for Festival of Dance Annapolis Royal, in Nova Scotia. Most recently, as Creative Director: Programming at Generator, he led the reimagination of the overall governance structure of the organization, moving towards a co-leadership framework. Previously, Michael played a pivotal role in the growth and development of Fall for Dance North, serving as Executive Producer for eight years. He has also previously guided projects with CanAsian Dance, Dusk Dances, Older & Reckless, and Kaeja d’Dance’s ‘Porch View Dances’. In addition, he acts as a consultant with various arts organizations and as a mentor to many emerging artists/curators in the Tkaronto arts community.
 With a bachelor’s degree in film/art history from Syracuse University in upstate New York, and professional dance training at Dance Arts Institute, Michael now serves as President of the Board of Directors at The CanDance Network. website << BACK TO ARTISTS