Jamii Esplanade is a Toronto nonprofit arts organization offering free workshops, festivals, and outdoor events for all ages at The Jamii Hub (The Esplanade) SEE OUR IMPACT What 's on? One event at a time, we are claiming public spaces in The Esplanade to bring arts at no cost to audience members. All workshops at The Jamii Hub is either free or affordable! JAMII'S ONE-OF-A-KIND RAFFLE Get your tickets to enter for a chance to win one week in the South of France! LEARN MORE PASI PHOTO EXHIBITION Photo Exhibition Marking the 2026 World Football Tournament LEARN MORE JOY IN THE PARK CELEBRATING CULTURES Outdoor Event June 26 & 27 at 6pm LEARN MORE BELONGING OLDER ADULTS WORKSHOPS Register for our older adults workshops CHECK OUT THE ESPLANADE'S SOCCER SCREENINGS | June 12 | July 14 | July 15 | | July 18 | July 19 | LEARN MORE WAYO CHILDREN'S FESTIVAL 7th year! August 12 to 16 Various Show Times LEARN MORE About Us Jamii, founded in 2011, is a not-for-profit arts organization based in the Esplanade community, Toronto. Our vision is to enhance togetherness within the communities we engage. We initiate, welcome, enable, facilitate and produce creative experiences, arts events and workshops with, for and by the people of the Esplanade and beyond with an intent of creating shared memories. SEE MORE Load more What ' s Upcoming? Multiple Dates Belonging Older Adults - Visual Arts Jun 23, 2026, 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada More info REGISTER Multiple Dates 1 day to the event June Cycle - Sewing Workshop Series Jun 24, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada More info Details Multiple Dates 2 days to the event Belonging Older Adults - Sing-Along Jun 25, 2026, 4:45 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada More info REGISTER Multiple Dates 3 days to the event Joy in the Park: Celebrating Cultures Jun 26, 2026, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. David Crombie Park, 131 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4P5, Canada More info Learn more Multiple Dates 4 days to the event The Little Esplanade - Miniature Workshop Series #4 Jun 27, 2026, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada More info REGISTER Multiple Dates 4 days to the event Joy in the Park: Celebrating Cultures Jun 27, 2026, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. David Crombie Park, 131 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4P5, Canada More info Learn more Multiple Dates 7 days to the event Belonging Older Adults - Movement Jun 30, 2026, 10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada More info REGISTER Multiple Dates 7 days to the event Belonging Older Adults - Visual Arts Jun 30, 2026, 11:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada More info REGISTER Multiple Dates 9 days to the event Belonging Older Adults - Sing-Along Jul 02, 2026, 4:45 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada More info REGISTER Multiple Dates 14 days to the event Belonging Older Adults - Movement Jul 07, 2026, 10:00 a.m. – 11:15 a.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada More info REGISTER Load More upcomingevents-main Recent Updates Stay in the loop with Jamii. Browse our latest e-newsletters for updates on upcoming workshops, events, community stories, and special announcements. Want these updates sent straight to your inbox? Subscribe to Jamii’s e-newsletter and be the first to know what’s happening at The Jamii Hub, on The Esplanade, and beyond. SUBSCRIBE PAST UPDATES Highlights Since 2011, Jamii has proudly brought multiple forms of arts and The Esplanade community together. Check out some of Jamii's highlights below. Indigenous Peoples Day Annual intentional celebration of National Indigenous People's Day at the heart of our community. MORE INFO Cycles Monthly arts workshops at The Jamii Hub on Mondays and Wednesdays MORE INFO Mural Toronto's iconic mural located at the David Crombie Park Basketball Court, in The Esplanade neighbourhood. MORE INFO WAYO Children's Festival Annual children festival designed as a parkour through the Berkeley Castle and Canadian Stage. MORE INFO SEE PAST PROGRAMS

Wayo is a children’s festival produced and presented by Jamii. It is the ultimate compensation for all the live art children and young audiences have been deprived off lately. The three day festival gives attendees an intimate multi-arts experience through a journey of performances at Berkeley Castle and Canadian Stage’s Berkeley Theatre. WAYO CHILDREN FESTIVAL 7th ANNUAL DATES AND START TIMES DURATION: ~1 HOUR AUG 12, 13, AND 14: 4:30PM, 5PM, 5:30PM, 6PM AUG 15 AND 16: 3PM, 3:30PM, 4PM, 4:30PM WHERE 235 THE ESPLANADE WAYO Children’s Festival’s 7th edition presents The Mudlark’s Mother, an original family arts experience created for children under 12 and their families. From August 12 to 16, audiences are invited to follow a maze-like route across Berkeley Castle and Berkeley Theatre, taking in five short immersive performances along the way. This year’s story moves through time, memory, and generations of life on The Esplanade. Children and families will follow the descendants of a young Mudlark child as the neighbourhood changes around them, carrying stories of grief, hope, pride, wonder, welcome, and belonging. Through music, movement, storytelling, interactive art, sensory experiences, and face painting, the festival turns familiar local places into spaces for shared imagination. Directed by Jamii’s Alchemist Isorine Marc, the 2026 edition brings together a large group of artists connected through performance, music, theatre, and community-based arts. Featured artists include Jonelle Sills, Heidi Chan, Aline Morales, Michael Mortley, Waleed Abdulhamid, Rudy Ray, Nickeshia Garrick, Alison McDonald, Liboi, guest artist from Kenya, Linda Epp, and more artists to be announced. The story is based on an original text by Sharon Zarita Adhiambo. WAYO has become a special part of Jamii’s summer programming because it invites young audiences to experience art with their whole selves. They walk, listen, watch, respond, imagine, and take part. For families in The Esplanade and across Toronto, it is a low-cost way to spend time together through live performance and local history. Tickets are $5 and availability is limited. UPCOMING DATES Wed, Aug 12 WAYO Children's Festival / REGISTER NOW Aug 12, 2026, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. David Crombie Park, 235 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Toronto's exclusive children's arts maze-like festival, WAYO, is back! A whimsical journey from one mesmerizing art attraction to the next! Wed, Aug 12 WAYO Children's Festival / REGISTER NOW Aug 12, 2026, 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. David Crombie Park, 235 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Toronto's exclusive children's arts maze-like festival, WAYO, is back! A whimsical journey from one mesmerizing art attraction to the next! Wed, Aug 12 WAYO Children's Festival / REGISTER NOW Aug 12, 2026, 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. David Crombie Park, 235 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Toronto's exclusive children's arts maze-like festival, WAYO, is back! A whimsical journey from one mesmerizing art attraction to the next! Wed, Aug 12 WAYO Children's Festival / REGISTER NOW Aug 12, 2026, 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. David Crombie Park, 235 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Toronto's exclusive children's arts maze-like festival, WAYO, is back! A whimsical journey from one mesmerizing art attraction to the next! Thu, Aug 13 WAYO Children's Festival / REGISTER NOW Aug 13, 2026, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. David Crombie Park, 235 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Toronto's exclusive children's arts maze-like festival, WAYO, is back! A whimsical journey from one mesmerizing art attraction to the next! Thu, Aug 13 WAYO Children's Festival / REGISTER NOW Aug 13, 2026, 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. David Crombie Park, 235 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Toronto's exclusive children's arts maze-like festival, WAYO, is back! A whimsical journey from one mesmerizing art attraction to the next! Thu, Aug 13 WAYO Children's Festival / REGISTER NOW Aug 13, 2026, 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. David Crombie Park, 235 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Toronto's exclusive children's arts maze-like festival, WAYO, is back! A whimsical journey from one mesmerizing art attraction to the next! Thu, Aug 13 WAYO Children's Festival / REGISTER NOW Aug 13, 2026, 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. David Crombie Park, 235 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Toronto's exclusive children's arts maze-like festival, WAYO, is back! A whimsical journey from one mesmerizing art attraction to the next! Fri, Aug 14 WAYO Children's Festival / REGISTER NOW Aug 14, 2026, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. David Crombie Park, 235 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Toronto's exclusive children's arts maze-like festival, WAYO, is back! A whimsical journey from one mesmerizing art attraction to the next! Fri, Aug 14 WAYO Children's Festival / REGISTER NOW Aug 14, 2026, 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. David Crombie Park, 235 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Toronto's exclusive children's arts maze-like festival, WAYO, is back! A whimsical journey from one mesmerizing art attraction to the next! Fri, Aug 14 WAYO Children's Festival / REGISTER NOW Aug 14, 2026, 5:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. David Crombie Park, 235 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Toronto's exclusive children's arts maze-like festival, WAYO, is back! A whimsical journey from one mesmerizing art attraction to the next! Fri, Aug 14 WAYO Children's Festival / REGISTER NOW Aug 14, 2026, 6:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. David Crombie Park, 235 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Toronto's exclusive children's arts maze-like festival, WAYO, is back! A whimsical journey from one mesmerizing art attraction to the next! Sat, Aug 15 WAYO Children's Festival / REGISTER NOW Aug 15, 2026, 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. David Crombie Park, 235 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Toronto's exclusive children's arts maze-like festival, WAYO, is back! A whimsical journey from one mesmerizing art attraction to the next! Sat, Aug 15 WAYO Children's Festival / REGISTER NOW Aug 15, 2026, 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. David Crombie Park, 235 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Toronto's exclusive children's arts maze-like festival, WAYO, is back! A whimsical journey from one mesmerizing art attraction to the next! Sat, Aug 15 WAYO Children's Festival / REGISTER NOW Aug 15, 2026, 4:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m. David Crombie Park, 235 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Toronto's exclusive children's arts maze-like festival, WAYO, is back! A whimsical journey from one mesmerizing art attraction to the next! Sat, Aug 15 WAYO Children's Festival / REGISTER NOW Aug 15, 2026, 4:30 p.m. – 5:30 p.m. David Crombie Park, 235 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Toronto's exclusive children's arts maze-like festival, WAYO, is back! A whimsical journey from one mesmerizing art attraction to the next! Sun, Aug 16 WAYO Children's Festival / REGISTER NOW Aug 16, 2026, 3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. David Crombie Park, 235 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Toronto's exclusive children's arts maze-like festival, WAYO, is back! A whimsical journey from one mesmerizing art attraction to the next! Sun, Aug 16 WAYO Children's Festival / REGISTER NOW Aug 16, 2026, 3:30 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. David Crombie Park, 235 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Toronto's exclusive children's arts maze-like festival, WAYO, is back! A whimsical journey from one mesmerizing art attraction to the next! Load More A festival for children and children at heart since 2020! In partnership with Berkeley Castle and Canadian Stage Each year, Jamii invites families and young adventurers to embark on an artistic journey filled with wonder and imagination. Held in the heart of the vibrant Esplanade neighbourhood, WAYO has been a resounding success, with hundreds of attendees joining us for an unforgettable experience every year. What sets WAYO Children's Festival apart is its unique concept. It's a parkour-like adventure through the world of art, where groups of audience members explore captivating live installations within two heritage buildings at 2 Berkeley St (Berkeley Castle), 26 Berkeley St (Canadian Stage/Berkeley Theatre). These historic venues provide the perfect backdrop for our creative performances. CHECK OUT PREVIOUS YEARS' WAYO! 2025 PHOTOS & VIDEOS 2021 PHOTOS & VIDEOS 2024 PHOTOS & VIDEOS 2020 PHOTOS & VIDEOS 2023 PHOTOS & VIDEOS 2022 PHOTOS & VIDEOS FAQ WAYO Children's Festival Where is 7th Annual WAYO Children's Festival located? WAYO Children's Festival starts in David Crombie Park across Market Lane Public School at 235 The Esplanade. The festival is designed as a maze and takes place within Berkeley Castle, The Jamii Hub, and Berkeley Theatre (Canadian Stage). What are the festival hours and what is the duration of the performance? Performance duration is approximately 60 to 90 minutes with a start time at 4:30pm, 5pm, 5:30pm, and 6pm on Wednesday August 12, Thursday August 13, Friday August 14, and at 3pm, 3:30pm, 4pm, and 4:30pm on Saturday August 15 and Sunday August 16. 7th Annual WAYO Children's Festival runs from August 12 to 16, 2026. What is the age group for the festival? This event is designed for children age 2 to 12. All children must be accompanied by an adult or caregiver. Should I get tickes for my kids? Please, get a ticket for each person in your party/family, INCLUDING CHILDREN - if you do not get tickets for everyone, we might not be able to accommodate everyone as spots are limited. Can I bring my child in a stroller? Yes! The full parkour is wheel accessible and your child can enjoy the festival from their stroller! When should we line up? We suggest you line up 15 minutes prior to the start of your show at the entrance in David Crombie Park at 235 The Esplanade, across Market Lane Public School. What if we are late? If your start time is 4:30pm, 5pm or 5:30pm on Wednesday August 12, Thursday August 13, and Friday August 14 or 3pm, 3:30pm or 4pm on Saturday August 15 and Sunday August 16, you might be able to join the following group, however, this is not guaranteed as the next group might be sold out. Can I get tickets at the entrance? All shows have limited spots and tickets might be sold out before event day. We suggest to get your tickets as soon as possible. How can we get to the festival via TTC? Option 1: The closest subway station is King station. From there, take a short streetcar ride on #504 or #503: Get off at Ontario St and walk south to The Esplanade Option 2: Bus #121: Get off at Princess St & The Esplanade, the venue is just around the block Option 3: Bus #75: Get off at Sherbourne and The Esplanade, then walk one block east Option 4: Bus #65: Get off at Mill St and The Esplanade, then walk one block west How can we get to the festival by biking? Bike Rakes: On the north side of The Esplanade around Berkeley Cafe at 262 The Esplanade. BikeShare: There are several BikeShare stations closeby: Princess & Front, Scadding & Sherbourne, Parliament & Mill. Is there any parking available at the festival area? You may find paid street parking on Berkeley Street, Front Street, or Scadding Ave. The closest Green P parking lot is located in the Distillery District just one block east on Parliament. We recommend you take the transit, bike, walk or take rideshare/cab to save time finding parking! Is there reserved seating? This event is designed as a parkour-like journey and people will be moving along the path to see different arts performances. No designated seats. Can we eat or drink during the show? Please bring your own water. No eating and drinking is allowed throughout the parkour. Can we take photos and videos during performances? You are encouraged to take photos and videos during performances! If you share them on social media, don't forget to tag @jamiiesplanade :) Is the festival wheelchair accessible? The WAYO Children’s Festival is designed to be 90% wheelchair accessible. Please note that one of our performance stops takes place inside the upstairs theatre at Canadian Stage (Berkeley Theatre), which is currently only accessible by stairs. The rest of the festival route is fully navigable, and the program is designed in a way that attendees can enjoy the full experience, with the exception of this one 10-minute performance stop. After this short segment, the audience continues to the next location as part of the festival’s journey. We warmly encourage everyone to attend the festival. Our team is committed to providing intentional and thoughtful support to accommodate the needs of all participants to the best of our capacity. If you have specific accessibility needs or questions, please don’t hesitate to contact us in advance so we can ensure the most welcoming experience possible. I need accessibility accommodation. What do I do? If you need any accessibility accommodation (interpreter etc.) please get your tickets and email info@jamii.ca to describe your need(s). Use "Wayo Accessibility" in your subject so we don't miss your email! Are there washrooms at the festival area? There are no washrooms onsite, however, the St Lawrence Community Recreation Centre (230 The Esplanade) has public washrooms. What if it rains? This is a rain or shine event. Please bring your umbrella if it rains. In case of heavy rain, we may move outdoor performances to a nearby covered area; if this happens, please follow the instructions of Jamii staff onsite. I registered for the event but I can't come. What should I do? We are sorry that we cannot provide refunds for your tickets. You can consider gifting the tickets to your friends or family. I would like to reach out to Jamii with any questions, concerns, feedback. How can I get in contact? Please send us an email at info@jamii.ca I would like to learn more about Jamii. Where do I go? Please visit www.jamii.ca to learn more about us. I would like to sign up for Jamii's e-newsletter to learn more about their upcoming events. Please visit www.jamii.ca/subscribe

With our series of Live Events, our intent is to activate our public space and create opportunities for our community not only to discover and enjoy amazing artistic performances, but also to connect and spend quality time together, in our local park. Joy in the Park Concerts, theatre performances, dance shows, and more! Through our array of live events, we aspire to activate both our community space, The Jamii Hub, and our public space, David Crombie Park with The Kisanii Hub, in order to provide our community members with opportunities to not only experience outstanding artistic performances but also to foster connections and cherish quality time together. 2026 EVENTS JOY IN THE PARK: CELEBRATING CULTURES June 26-27, 2026 David Crombie Park MORE INFO JOY IN THE PARK: NATIONAL INDIGENOUS PEOPLES' DAY June 21, 2026 David Crombie Park MORE INFO JOY IN THE PARK: PASI May 8, 2026 David Crombie Park MORE INFO PAST EVENTS October 2025 JOY IN THE PARK: RODA DE SAMBA & HERCINIA MORE INFO May 2025 JOY IN THE PARK: MELTEMI ORCHESTRA MORE INFO June 2024 Joy in the Park: National Indigenous Peoples Day MORE INFO July 2023 To My Past Present and Future MORE INFO July 2021 Becoming Garden MORE INFO July 2021 Celebrating Community MORE INFO 2020 Itinerant performances MORE INFO July 2019 Drag Queen Story Time MORE INFO July 2025 JOY AT THE MARKET: CORPUS & MELAT MENGESHA MORE INFO October 2024 Joy in the Park: Moskitto Bar MORE INFO May 2024 Joy in the Park: Fórro MORE INFO May 2023 Svaha MORE INFO June 2021 Écoute pour voir MORE INFO March 2021 Giizhig MORE INFO Summer 2020 Wind Stories MORE INFO June 2025 JOY IN THE PARK: CELEBRATING CULTURES MORE INFO August 2024 Joy in the Park: SummerWorks MORE INFO December 2023 Mudlark MORE INFO 2021 and 2022 LuminUs MORE INFO Mar - Apr 2021 Allegra MORE INFO Aug and Oct 2020 Hisia MORE INFO October 2019 I am me. I am heart MORE INFO June 2025 JOY IN THE PARK: NATIONAL INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY MORE INFO June 2024 Joy in the Park: Celebrating Cultures MORE INFO September 2023 Flamenco on The Esplanade MORE INFO Aug to Sep 2021 La Bulle MORE INFO March 2021 Red Rhythm & Blues MORE INFO August 2020 Lua Shayenne Dance MORE INFO August 2019 I am me. I am home. MORE INFO SEE MORE

Jamii offers free dancing workshops in downtown Toronto led by artists. Join one session or a full series. Registration required per session. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / Dancing DANCING Cycles Workshops Jamii’s Dancing workshops invite participants to move, connect, and build confidence through guided, community-based dance series. Each month features a specific style or cultural tradition led by a professional dance artist, offering a welcoming space to learn, sweat a little, and share rhythm with others. You can register for the full month to build familiarity over time, or sign up for a single session to get a taste of the dance form. Registration is required for each individual session you plan to attend, and spaces are limited. Workshops change throughout the year. These sessions are designed to be accessible and beginner-friendly, with options to adapt movement for different bodies, abilities, and comfort levels. Workshops are free to attend. Registration opens on the 10th of the previous month at 12:00 AM. FREE ADMISSION | REGISTRATION REQUIRED | NO PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE NEEDED AGE GROUP | All Ages - Children under 12 are welcome when accompanied by an adult REGISTER NOW October 2026 TAP INTO RHYTHM October 5 - 13 - 19 - 26, 2026 Facilitator: Elise McGrenera MORE INFO May 2025 BUTOH May 5 - 12 - 19, 2025 Facilitator: Mayumi Lashbrook MORE INFO November 2024 DABKE FROM PALESTINE November 4, 11, 18, 2024 Facilitator: Mona Ayesh MORE INFO May 2024 YOSAKOI FROM JAPAN May 6 - 13 - 20, 2024 Facilitator: Takako Segawa MORE INFO June 2026 DABKE: STOMPING, RHYTHM, RESISTANCE June 1 - 8 - 15 - 22 - 29, 2026 Facilitator: Mona Ayesh MORE INFO April 2025 CACHARPAYA AND TINKU April 7 - 14 -21, 2025 Facilitators: Carolina Rojas, Ximena Loayza MORE INFO October 2024 IGAL FROM PHILIPPINES October 7 - 14 - 21, 2024 Facilitator: Candace Kumar MORE INFO April 2024 KUKU FROM GUINEA April 8 - 15 - 22, 2024 Facilitator: Mabinty Sylla MORE INFO April 2026 MOVING WITH RHYTHM AND EXPRESSION April 6 - 13 - 20 - 27, 2026 Facilitator: Nickeshia Garrick MORE INFO March 2025 LEARNING TAP DANCE March 3 - 10 - 17, 2025 Facilitator: Elise McGrenera MORE INFO September 2024 STORYBEING September 9 - 16 - 23, 2024 Facilitator: N. Jayarajan, B. Buan, R. Joshi MORE INFO March 2024 FLAMENCO FROM SPAIN March 4 - 11 - 18, 2024 Facilitator: Tamar Ilana MORE INFO March 2026 SOCA & CARIBBEAN RHYTHMS March 2 - 9 - 16 - 23 - 30, 2026 Facilitator: Michael Mortley MORE INFO February 2025 CONTEMPORARY DANCE February 3 - 10 - 17, 2025 Facilitator: Ysabel Garcia MORE INFO June 2024 AFROCARIBBEAN DANCE MOVES June 3 - 10 - 17, 2024 Facilitator: Nickeshia Garrick MORE INFO February 2024 FORRÓ FROM NORTHERN BRAZIL February 5 - 12 - 19, 2024 Facilitator: Vinicius and Joseane MORE INFO Calendar Dancing-Upcoming-Dates UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Mon, Jun 22 June Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Jun 22, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move together through Dabke. A five-part Palestinian dance workshop led by Mona Ayesh. Free with registration. +26 more Mon, Jun 29 June Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Jun 29, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Move together through Dabke. A five-part Palestinian dance workshop led by Mona Ayesh. Free with registration. +26 more Mon, Oct 05 October Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Oct 05, 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. Free with registration. Tue, Oct 13 October Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Oct 13, 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. Free with registration. Mon, Oct 19 October Cycle - Dancing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Oct 19, 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. Free with registration. 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. Free with registration.

Event venue in downtown Toronto for workshops, meetings, weddings, and celebrations. A 1,870 sq ft furnished venue with kitchen, sound system, and flexible layout. Book The Jamii Hub. A Creative Event Space A warm, 1,870 sq ft heritage venue in Downtown Toronto for workshops, celebrations, meetings, and community events. Address: 264 The Esplanade, Toronto ON M5A 4J6 • Contact: info@jamii.ca HOW BOOKING WORKS PRICING OPTIONS BOOK A TOUR PHOTO GALLERY VENUE REQUEST FORM SIZE & CAPACITY SURFACE SIZE | 1870 sq ft CAPACITY STANDING | 100 people AUDOTORIUM | 50-60 people CLASSROOM STYLE | 40 people AMENITIES Fridge, freezer, dishwasher, toaster oven, microwave, kettle, and coffee maker A red couch set, seven folding tables (6-ft long by 36-in wide), one folding table (4-ft long by 26-in wide), one kitchen table (6-ft long by 36-in wide), one wooden table (8-ft long by 24-in wide), 43 chairs, coat hangers, red metal bistro set with five 30" round tables and 10 chairs High-speed internet Projector and 75" Screen A sound system An executive stage (add-on) PRICING Choose from pricing options for commercial use, personal events, weddings, and public holidays. Scroll down to see full rates. SEE FLOOR PLAN 11 REASONS WHY YOU SHOULD BOOK THE JAMII HUB NOW: The Jamii Hub is more than an event venue – it's where creativity meets community. Whether you're looking for the best party venue in Downtown Toronto for workshops, meetings, celebrations, a birthday party, wedding, photoshoot, or artistic events, our space is designed to inspire. All in the heart of the vibrant St. Lawrence neighbourhood, and only a few steps away from the Distillery Historic District of Toronto. The Jamii Hub is surrounded by cafés, parks, and cultural landmarks, making it one of Toronto’s most accessible venues. Located steps from the Distillery District and David Crombie Park, within a CommunAuto Flex Zone , and just 1.7 km from Union Station , it’s easy to reach by TTC, GO Transit, bike, or car with the parking lots nearby. 1 UNIQUE ARCHITECTURE Exposed brick, wood beams, and an open-concept layout in the historic Berkeley Castle, part of Old Town Toronto's St Lawrence Neighbourhood Swipe or tap the arrows to navigate. Most dates book 1–3 months in advance. Submit a request early to secure yours. We’ll confirm availability, pricing, and next steps within 1–2 business days. SUBMIT A BOOKING REQUEST Swipe or tap the arrows to navigate. BOOK A 15-MIN VENUE TOUR RENTAL OPTIONS & PRICING COMMERCIAL BUSINESSES For corporate, ticketed, or profit-generating events. Weekday Rate (Mon – Thu, 4hrs*): $500**  Extra hour: +$100** Weekend Rate (Fri – Sun, 4 hrs*): $750   Extra hour: +$150 Professional space in a heritage building — ideal for launches, team gatherings, meetings, team bounding activities, and holiday celebrations. *Minimum rental period: 4 hours for all options. Each booking includes access to the space, available furniture and amenities, and on-site support from a Jamii site representative. **Except on Public Holidays. Check the last dropdown for statutory holiday pricing. Renters are required to pay a deposit fee of $300 to safeguard any damages. This amount will be e-transferred back to you within 5 business days after your rental. PERSONAL USE Perfect for baby showers, birthdays, and private gatherings (excluding weddings). Rate (4 hrs*): $500**  Extra hour: +$100** A welcoming venue to celebrate life’s special moments with friends and family. *Minimum rental period: 4 hours for all options. Each booking includes access to the space, available furniture and amenities, and on-site support from a Jamii site representative. **Same rate applies for weekdays and weekends, except on Public Holidays. Check the last dropdown for holiday pricing. Renters are required to pay a deposit fee of $300 to safeguard any damages. This amount will be e-transferred back to you within 5 business days after your rental. WEDDINGS For wedding ceremonies or receptions, with weekday and weekend options. Weekday Rate (Mon – Thu, 4hrs*): $500** Extra hour: +$100** Weekend Rate (Fri – Sun, 4 hrs*): $750   Extra hour: +$150 A charming downtown venue with rustic beams and warm atmosphere. Ideal for intimate weddings. *Minimum rental period: 4 hours for all options. Each booking includes access to the space, available furniture and amenities, and on-site support from a Jamii site representative. **Except on Public Holidays. Check the last dropdown for holiday pricing. Renters are required to pay a deposit fee of $300 to safeguard any damages. This amount will be e-transferred back to you within 5 business days after your rental. PUBLIC HOLIDAY RATES Holiday rates apply on statutory holidays (New Year’s Day, Family Day, Good Friday, Victoria Day, Canada Day, Labour Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve). Rate (4 hrs*): $750  Extra hour: +$150 Public Holiday Rates apply for all rental types. *Minimum rental period: 4 hours for all options. Each booking includes access to the space, available furniture and amenities, and on-site support from a Jamii site representative. Renters are required to pay a deposit fee of $300 to safeguard any damages. This amount will be e-transferred back to you within 5 business days after your rental. BOOK YOUR VENUE NOW Space Rental Tour Book a 15-Min Venue Tour Check out to see if The Jamii Hub is a good fit for your event. Calendar opens 1 week in advance. This calendar is only for 15-minute venue tours and doesn’t reflect rental availability. Calendar opens 1 week in advance. If you can’t find a time that works for you, email info@jamii.ca and we’ll do our best to help. WHAT PEOPLE SAY The moment we walked in, it felt like home. The Hub has this calm, welcoming vibe that makes people instantly comfortable. Our community gathering turned into something really special because of how thoughtful the space feels. - Neighbourhood Member We hosted our team retreat at The Jamii Hub, and it was the perfect setting to think, collaborate, and recharge. The layout encouraged conversation, the tech setup worked flawlessly, and everyone appreciated being in a space that supports creativity and community instead of feeling corporate. - Social Committee Team We used the Hub for an arts workshop, and it was perfect. The space is bright, flexible, and fully equipped, from sound and lighting to tables and kitchen access. Everything worked smoothly, and the team was a joy to collaborate with. - Art Facilitator SUBMIT A BOOKING REQUEST HOW BOOKING WORKS STEP 8: We return your deposit STEP 1: You fill out the form Start by completing the venue request form. If you’d like to see the space, you can book a 15-minute venue tour before or after submitting the request form. STEP 2: We follow up We’ll confirm availability within 1 to 2 business days and send the booking form plus all important policy information, such as cancellations, cleaning, access, overtime, noise, decorations, alcohol licence, and insurance. STEP 3: You c onfirm STEP 4: We send contract and invoice Once you’ve reviewed the information, you will fill out the booking form. We’ll send a rental contract and invoice for you to review and sign. STEP 5: You make the payment Your booking is confirmed once payment is received. STEP 6: You submit documents One week before your event, please send proof of insurance and, if applicable, your alcohol licence (SOP) and smart serve. STEP 7: Your event day! A Jamii site representative will be on site throughout your rental to open and lock the space, welcome your group, and assist with any questions. Access is through the main entrance at 264 The Esplanade, and all guests are required to enter and exit through the same doors. After your rental, the space will be inspected to make sure everything is in good condition. Your $300 security deposit will be returned by e-transfer within five business days. BOOK YOUR VENUE NOW VENUE REQUEST FORM Most dates book 1–3 months in advance. Submit the booking form early to secure yours. We’ll confirm availability, pricing, and next steps within 1–2 business days. First Name Last Name Email PURPOSE: What is the intended use of the space? For personal use, registered charity, nonprofit For commercial, business Wedding What type of business is this event for? Please choose one of the options EVENT TYPE DATE * required START TIME: Including prep time 12:00 AM 12:15 AM 12:30 AM 12:45 AM 01:00 AM 01:15 AM 01:30 AM 01:45 AM 02:00 AM 02:15 AM 02:30 AM 02:45 AM 03:00 AM 03:15 AM 03:30 AM 03:45 AM 04:00 AM 04:15 AM 04:30 AM 04:45 AM 05:00 AM 05:15 AM 05:30 AM 05:45 AM 06:00 AM 06:15 AM 06:30 AM 06:45 AM 07:00 AM 07:15 AM 07:30 AM 07:45 AM 08:00 AM 08:15 AM 08:30 AM 08:45 AM 09:00 AM 09:15 AM 09:30 AM 09:45 AM 10:00 AM 10:15 AM 10:30 AM 10:45 AM 11:00 AM 11:15 AM 11:30 AM 11:45 AM 12:00 PM 12:15 PM 12:30 PM 12:45 PM 01:00 PM 01:15 PM 01:30 PM 01:45 PM 02:00 PM 02:15 PM 02:30 PM 02:45 PM 03:00 PM 03:15 PM 03:30 PM 03:45 PM 04:00 PM 04:15 PM 04:30 PM 04:45 PM 05:00 PM 05:15 PM 05:30 PM 05:45 PM 06:00 PM 06:15 PM 06:30 PM 06:45 PM 07:00 PM 07:15 PM 07:30 PM 07:45 PM 08:00 PM 08:15 PM 08:30 PM 08:45 PM 09:00 PM 09:15 PM 09:30 PM 09:45 PM 10:00 PM 10:15 PM 10:30 PM 10:45 PM 11:00 PM 11:15 PM 11:30 PM 11:45 PM 02:30 PM END TIME: Including cleaning time 12:00 AM 12:15 AM 12:30 AM 12:45 AM 01:00 AM 01:15 AM 01:30 AM 01:45 AM 02:00 AM 02:15 AM 02:30 AM 02:45 AM 03:00 AM 03:15 AM 03:30 AM 03:45 AM 04:00 AM 04:15 AM 04:30 AM 04:45 AM 05:00 AM 05:15 AM 05:30 AM 05:45 AM 06:00 AM 06:15 AM 06:30 AM 06:45 AM 07:00 AM 07:15 AM 07:30 AM 07:45 AM 08:00 AM 08:15 AM 08:30 AM 08:45 AM 09:00 AM 09:15 AM 09:30 AM 09:45 AM 10:00 AM 10:15 AM 10:30 AM 10:45 AM 11:00 AM 11:15 AM 11:30 AM 11:45 AM 12:00 PM 12:15 PM 12:30 PM 12:45 PM 01:00 PM 01:15 PM 01:30 PM 01:45 PM 02:00 PM 02:15 PM 02:30 PM 02:45 PM 03:00 PM 03:15 PM 03:30 PM 03:45 PM 04:00 PM 04:15 PM 04:30 PM 04:45 PM 05:00 PM 05:15 PM 05:30 PM 05:45 PM 06:00 PM 06:15 PM 06:30 PM 06:45 PM 07:00 PM 07:15 PM 07:30 PM 07:45 PM 08:00 PM 08:15 PM 08:30 PM 08:45 PM 09:00 PM 09:15 PM 09:30 PM 09:45 PM 10:00 PM 10:15 PM 10:30 PM 10:45 PM 11:00 PM 11:15 PM 11:30 PM 11:45 PM 02:30 PM Are you flexible with your event date depending on the venue availability? Choose an option What is your back up date? NUMBER OF ATTENDEES Will you serve alcoholic drinks at the event? Choose an option ALCOHOL LICENCE (SPECIAL OCCASION PERMIT) If you plan to serve alcohol, you’ll need a Special Occasion Permit (SOP ). The permit costs $50 if alcohol is not being sold, and $150 if alcohol is being sold. EVENT INSURANCE Event insurance is required for all rentals. The policy must include third-party bodily injury and property damage coverage of at least $2,000,000, and must list Jamii Esplanade as an additional insured. You’ll need to provide us with a certificate of insurance showing this coverage. You’re welcome to use any insurance provider you like. If helpful, our partner Duuo Event Insurance offers policies that typically range from $7 to $150, depending on your event and whether alcohol is served. Please confirm by checking the box that you will provide Jamii with your certificate of insurance and Special Occasion Permit (only required for events where alcohol is served) not less than 1 week prior to the rental date. SUBMIT Looking for a birthday party place for your kids? We have something for you! CHECK ART BIRTHDAY PARTIES Address: 264 The Esplanade, Toronto ON M5A 4J6 • Contact: info@jamii.ca "The Jamii Hub" is a creative space where Esplanadians share agency over the multidisciplinary artistic interventions and our collective storytelling. Gratitude to the Canada Council for the Arts for making this endeavor possible. SUBMIT A VENUE REQUEST

Artists Jamii works with shape what our programming is. We are grateful to be working with hundreds of talented artists. who we work with Artists LEAD ARTISTS ARTISTS EMERGING ARTISTS LeadArtists Lead Artists who curate monthly themed programs at The Jamii Hub In February 2024, Jamii embarked on a transformative journey towards fostering community bonds through shared leadership and agency of what’s happening at The Jamii Hub. For three weeks every month, daily at 7pm, Jamii gives the keys to lead artists tasked with curating diverse immersive activities at The Jamii Hub. As such, each month, one artist is entrusted with shaping the Jamii experience, intertwining their voice with our collective narrative. The selection of our lead artist prioritizes relationality, trust, and a commitment to nurturing genuine connections within our community. We seek talented artists who appreciate engaging communities through creativity and are eager to share their talents and networks. It's about fostering meaningful engagement and dialogue through art. Lead artists are empowered to conceive a thematic vision for their three-week tenure, supported wholeheartedly as curators of the Jamii Hub. This opportunity offers a platform for curatorial expression, collaboration, and deeper community engagement in the arts. Thanks to the support oof Canada Council for the Arts, Metcalf Foundation and Rama Gaming House, we rejoice in opening our space to these artists, witnessing their brilliance illuminate our community with fresh perspectives and practices. Meet our lead artists and their visions below. Heidi Chan "Small and Mighty" - May 2025 MORE INFO Jonelle Sills "Mirrors" - February 2025 MORE INFO Nova Bhattacharya "Storybeing" - September 2024 MORE INFO Waleed Abdulhamid "Motherland" - April 2024 MORE INFO Carolina Rojas "The Chakana" - April 2025 MORE INFO Razan Samara "Return" - November 2024 MORE INFO Nickeshia Garrick "Connectedness" - June 2024 MORE INFO Tamar Ilana "Migration" - March 2024 MORE INFO Sharon Zarita Adhiambo "Grounded" - March 2025 MORE INFO Patrick de Belen "Teka Lang (Just Wait)" - October 2024 MORE INFO Takako Segawa "Roots" - May 2024 MORE INFO Aline Morales "Forró" - February 2024 MORE INFO who are featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists At Jamii, we consider ourselves fortunate to collaborate with over a hundred artists each year—some joining us for the first time, while others have engaged in years of artistic dialogue within our community. These artists, whether leading workshops, gracing our events with performances, showcasing their works through photo exhibitions, or beautifying our community with murals, are pivotal in defining the essence of Jamii. They weave together the fabric of our shared experiences, crafting memories, narrating stories, and enriching our collective identity. Their contributions resonate deeply, shaping the very soul of what Jamii represents. Aline Morales Singer, Musician MORE INFO Ayelen Liberona Dancer, filmmaker MORE INFO Andrew Patterson Visual Artist MORE INFO Brescia Nember Reid Puppetry MORE INFO Anita Boey Sewing MORE INFO Daniel Hamin Cellist MORE INFO LOAD MORE artists with the support of RBC's Emerging Artist Program Emerging Artists In 2023, thanks to the support of RBC’s Emerging Artists program, Jamii launched its first Emerging Artists Initiative that invited 6 artists, from different arts forms, in the emergence of their artistic career for a one-year programme that supported their artistic growth. This one-year (about 88hrs/artist) programme was customized to each artist participating and offered: 1) Artistic practice support (through mentorship and access to a creative space); 2) Creative industry management and networking support; 3) Public exposure with exhibition, screening, performance and more. This initiative follows in the footsteps of Laini, a 2022 RBC funded initiative that supports young women in creative leadership programme. This is also an initiative the community has directly requested Jamii to pursue as part of a strategic planning initiative in the Summer of 2022. The six emerging artists who benefited from this exceptional programme are Sabrine S Hakam (photographer), Yasmine Omar (photographer), Karen Lam (visual artist and actress), Gillian Mapp (photographer), Darwin Peters (painter) and Morningstar Quill (photographer) - all 6 identifying as BIPOC. Based on the success of the programme, we foresee Jamii’s Emerging Artist Initiative growing in 2024 and beyond. AKRAM YACOUT Photography MORE INFO TINA ABDELBASIT Visual Arts & Murals MORE INFO JONELLE SILLS Music MORE INFO AMBERLEE KING Visual Arts MORE INFO VRUNDA UPADHYAY Dance MORE INFO KURRI QUILL Photography MORE INFO SHILPA SHAH Visual Arts MORE INFO LEAH KING Photography MORE INFO ANA HIGUERA Music & Visual Arts MORE INFO ANA DA SILVA Photography MORE INFO NOOSA ZEIN Dance MORE INFO KAREN LAM Acting, Visual Arts MORE INFO emergingartists

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

Winter 2021 Community Projects/ Photo Exhibits/ WIsdoM ripples WIsdoM ripples Winter 2021 Winter 2021 An exciting photo exhibit featuring 3 Toronto-based photographers, curated by 9 young women from The Esplanade community. Exhibited at The Esplanade & Sherbourne David Crombie Park This exhibit features the work of the three Toronto-based powerful photographers Roya DelSol, Brianna Roye, Zahrah Siddiqui, and is curated by 9 young women of The Esplanade community. Together, and as a way to leap into next year, photographers and curators explored Jamii’s 2022 season theme: WATER IS MEMORY. Unveiled on November 2021 On display November 2021 to February 2022 Project Video by Noshin Hussain, mentored by Alejandra Higuera CREDITS Produced and presented by Jamii @jamiiesplanade Featured photographers: Roya DelSol Brianna Roye Zahra Siddiqui Curated by our Laini youth: Lydia Embaye, Mira Ghabiel, Aela Kuria, Tenzin Paldon, Anhar Salem, Morgan Tortolo, Nada Yakot, Hanna Yusuf, Leena Yusuf Curation process facilitated by: Gilian Mapp, Isorine Marc Project Management: Jasmin Linton, Isorine Marc Graphic design: Iris Unlu Video documentation by: Noshin Hussain (student), mentored by Alejandra Higuera (videographer) Supported by: RBC Foundation, Rama Gaming House, Government of Ontario’s Reconnect Festival & Event Program, Ontario Arts Council Curation Process: Our group of young women curated this exhibit and crafted its title and artistic statement. They were initially presented with 30 photos, 10 by each of the three photographers. Through a series of 8 workshops, under the artistic leadership of Gillian Mapp and Isorine Marc, they worked together to select 10 photos only. Through the exchange of ideas, perspectives and opinions, they explore the “why” and "how" to present this exhibit to their community and to you. Artistic Statement by the 9 young women who curated this exhibit: Water is memory. Water, like memory, has a rhythm; it ripples in water like time and music on a page. A souvenir from a trip taken long ago. The scents from childhood. The familiar sound of laughter from your loved ones. Memories from the past rushing in and out like waves, crashing and flowing like a storm of culture. From the storm one experiences a sinking feeling that leads to the calmness and serenity; water represents an infinity of emotions. Never knowing the depth of memories, their light, or how dark they can appear. Bodies of water come in different forms. Bruce Lee once said: “Be formless, shapeless, like water. Put water into a cup, it becomes a cup”. Project Video by Noshin Hussain, mentored by Alejandra Higuera Supported by:

Summer 2022 Community Projects/ Photo Exhibits/ THE RED CHAIR SESSIONS THE RED CHAIR SESSIONS Summer 2022 Summer 2022 As part of Jamii's 5th Annual National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebrations Exhibited at The Esplanade & Princess St. David Crombie Park Nadya Kwandibens’ The Red Chair Sessions showcases Indigenous Peoples inextricable relationships to the land, ancestral bloodlines and waterways through a striking series of portraits. The photo exhibition, unveiled on National Indigenous Peoples Day June 21, 2022, is a selection of 8 portraits from the wider series. This selection was made with the intent to highlight the importance of water, memory and intergenerational stories. Unveiled on Monday, June 21, 2022 On display from June to November 2022 Filmed and Edited by Recro Digital Marketing Jamii Statement: Jamii’s 2022 theme is titled “Water is Memory”. It is an invitation to (re)connect the memory cells of water to the stories of our community. In “water” we recognize and honour that our neighbourhood, the Esplanade, was under water less than 200 years ago, and the meaning of “Esplanade” is “boardwalk by the water”. We also embrace the unseen waters that bring life to our surroundings as we acknowledge the river that crosses underneath our community. This theme is an opportunity to bring “water” to the forefront of our programming, addressing both issues of environmental degradation, climate change and access or lack thereof to clean drinkable water in many Indigenous communities across so-called Canada, such as our partnering community in Pikangikum First Nation. In “memory”, we dive into exploring how the shared and life-changing memories we create with our community can impact and enhance social cohesion and health outcomes of our community members. You belong to a community if you share its collective memories and thus, memory works as an important agent of social cohesion. All of the artists and contributors to Jamii’s 2022 season are invited to enrich this theme with their own perspective and interpretation. Nadya Kwandibens’, The Red Chair Series showcases Indigenous Peoples inextricable relationships to the land, ancestral bloodlines and waterways through a striking series of portraits. The photo exhibition is a selection of 8 portraits from the wider series. This selection was made with the intent to highlight the importance of water, memory and intergenerational stories. About Photographer Nadya Kwandibens: Nadya Kwandibens is Anishinaabe (Ojibwe) from the Animakee Wa Zhing #37 First Nation in northwestern Ontario. She is an award winning self-taught portrait and events photographer, a Canon Ambassador, and has travelled extensively across Canada for over 10 years. In 2008 she founded Red Works Photography. Red Works is a dynamic photography company empowering contemporary Indigenous lifestyles and cultures through photographic essays, features, and portraits. Red Works specializes in natural light portraiture and headshots sessions plus event and concert photography. Red Works also provides image licensing, workshops, presentations and print products. Nadya’s photography has been exhibited in group and solo shows across Canada and the United States. In 2018, Nadya won the Ontario Arts Council’s Indigenous Arts Award. Jurors stated, “Nadya is an intrepid, ground-breaking and influential artist. She has brought an Indigenous voice to portrait photography that recontextualizes images and shows us our true selves.” In addition to commissioned works, Nadya delivers empowering photography workshops and presentations for youth, universities, and community groups. She currently resides in Tkarón:to on Wendat, Haudenosaunee, Mississauga of the Credit River & Dish With One Spoon Territory. Filmed and Edited by Recro Digital Marketing Artistic Statement by Nadya Kwandibens: The Red Chair Sessions is an ongoing open-call portraiture series that places importance on the acknowledgement and reclamation of Indigenous lands and the revitalization of Indigenous languages. This series ultimately disrupts colonial narratives, centres Indigenous Peoples who have been here since time immemorial, and reminds us that we are all guests on Indigenous land. The colour red represents Indigenous Peoples on the Medicine Wheel and, in this series, signifies Indigenous Peoples’ inherent connection to the land and to ancestral bloodlines. Whether sitting on or standing beside the red chair, one feels grounded and firmly rooted; the act itself and the resulting portrait serves as a reminder of our responsibility to steward the lands upon which we walk. Accompanying each photograph is text in the subjects’ respective Indigenous language, or a mix of languages, and can include: names gifted/given in ceremony (written in either English or syllabics), the Nation to which they belong, and the placenames of traditional and Treaty areas that each session occurs. In this way, Indigenous voices are amplified and become a refusal of the colonizer’s language while pointing out the erasure of Indigenous history. The series is also a celebration honouring the many achievements of Indigenous Peoples and presents a positive perspective for future generations. Supported by:

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

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

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

Summer 2023 Community Projects/ Photo Exhibits/ CALYX CALYX Summer 2023 Summer 2023 As part of Jamii's 5th Annual Celebrating Cultures Event Exhibited at The Esplanade & Berkeley St David Crombie Park Much like the protective green layer around a flower bud, this exhibit, titled Calyx, is a testament to the power of flourishing creativity and blossoming ideas. Designed and created by 15 Esplanadians, under the artistic leadership of Sabrine S. Hakam. Unveiled on Tuesday, June 27, 2023 On display from June to November 2023 In Partnership with As part of CREDITS Created, curated and designed by community members: Maryam Alireza, Dani Gakumba, Sabrine S. Hakam, Aéla Kuria, Zélia Kuria, Sophia Leopold-Muresan, keiron, Isorine Marc, Nadifa Daud Mohamed, Faith Ssempiira, Francesca Ssempiira, Ruthmarie Williams, Shaima Yacout, Afnan Yakot, Eva Zolfaghari Artistic Concept: Sabrine S. Hakam Creation Process Facilitation: Sabrine S. Hakam Photography: Sabrine S. Hakam, Dani Gakumba Project Management: Nadifa Daud Mohamed, Maryam Alireza Project Direction: Isorine Marc Graphic Designer: Iris Unlu Collective Artistic Statement: Much like the protective green layer around a flower bud, our exhibit, titled Calyx, is a testament to the power of flourishing creativity and blossoming ideas. Together, we envisioned, designed, and created an exhibit that nurtures budding talent and passion. The entire process was an opportunity to explore different aspects and expressions of our own personal identities. Through this exhibition, mostly composed of self-portraits, we explore how, both individually and as a group, we relate to society and its pressures. In juxtaposing strong images, we demonstrate how one can decide to see beauty in the world or run away from it. In sharing the intimate stories and learnings that inspired our portraits, we found many bridges to connect us. Creating this exhibit was an act of love for ourselves and our communities, and, in some cases, a lesson on choosing your perspective on life and offering words of wisdom. Artistic Statement by Sabrine S Hakam: In 2022, I started work on ‘Power in Portraits’, a creative project that uses portraiture to explore different facets of BIPOC, postcolonial, and Third Culture identities. As an art form, portraits demand we consider not only how we see ourselves but also how we wish to represent ourselves to the world. Therefore, power exists in the freedom and ability to control our own representation. The ‘Power in Portraits’ workshops, in partnership with Jamii, provided a space for participants to explore portraits as a tool for self-expression, representation and empowerment. These workshops were a unique opportunity for me, as an artist and educator, to both learn from and nurture the creativity of others and invite them to channel their imagination through my artistic method. The results are striking, shocking, beautiful and, most importantly, they represent the power of collaboration, dialogue, mutual appreciation and respect. Calyx is built around teamwork and the free exchange of ideas and while each portrait represents a unique point of view, the exhibit itself represents our work as a group, a team, a creative collective - a Jamii. Click HERE to more information about photographer Sabrine S. Hakam Photo exhibition and unveiling event (Celebrating Cultures) supported by:

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

Winter 2022 Community Projects/ Photo Exhibits/ ILLUMINATED PERSPECTIVES ILLUMINATED PERSPECTIVES Winter 2022 Winter 2022 An exhibit featuring 4 photographers from Pikangikum First Nation, curated by 11 young women from The Esplanade community. Exhibited in the courtyard of Toronto Public Library St Lawrence Branch This exhibit features the work of 4 photographers from Pikangikum First Nation: Mandi Chan Peters, Maddy King, Morningstar Quill and Clayton Turtle. It was curated by 11 young women from The Esplanade community under the leadership of Elle Alconcel. “Illuminated Perspectives” portrays Pikangikum First Nation and its spectacular beauty. The photos capture the essence of northern wildlife and the people who live there." Unveiled on October 2021 On display October 2021 to January 2022 CREDITS Produced and presented by: Jamii @jamiiesplanade In partnership with Ontario Culture Days and the Toronto Public Library St Lawrence Branch Featured photographers: Clayton Turtle Maddy King Mandi Chan-Peters Morningstar Quill Young curators: Aela Kuria, Anhar Salem, Asmaa Salem, Faith Ssempiira, Francesca Ssempiira, Huda Mourad, Lydia Embaye, RuthMarie Williams, Sophia Leopold-Muresan, Tenzin Paldon, Zhenmei Wong-Ward Curation process facilitated by: Elle Alconcel, assisted by Isorine Marc Project Management: Isorine Marc & Jasmin Linton Project Coordination (Pikangikum First Nation): Vanessa Hazel Project Assistant: Afnan Yakot Graphic Designer: Iris Unlu Supported by: RBC Foundation, Rama Gaming House, and Government of Ontario. Curation Process: Our group of young women curated this exhibit and crafted its title and artistic statement. They were initially presented with 40 photos, about 10 by each of the four photographers. Through a series of 5 workshops, under the artistic leadership of Elle Alconcel, they worked together to select 18 photos only. Through the exchange of ideas, perspectives and opinions, they explore the “why” and "how" to present this exhibit to their community and to you. Relationship between Jamii and Pikangikum First Nation: In 2018, Jamii visited Pikangikum First Nation for the first time, as part of an intra-provincial and and inter-community initiative supported by the Canada Council for the Arts. Under the lead of our local ambassador, we were thrilled to connect with wonderful individuals in the community and able to share stories. Find out about Pikangikum First Nation's location on a map HERE. During our second trip in 2019, we agreed to produce a community-arts project in between our two communities, as well as Wawa and Wolfe ISland, also located in Ontario. The project, named "Wind Stories" took shape in 2019 and 2020. find out more about this project HERE. In February 2020, the Jamii team traveled to Pikangikum First Nation for a third time and together, we brought "The Stories The Wind Carries" to life. We partnered with the Pikangikum Education Authority and Eenchokay Birchstick School to invite people to create a portrait of fellow community members. In total, we created 18 portraits, involving 36 people in the project. This was a beautiful experience and project for all involved. We have since maintained our connection to the community, and while we are planning to travel back in 2022, we are over the moon to produce "Illuminated Perspectives" and present the work of four astounding photographers from Pikangikum First Nation. Artistic Statement by the 11 young women who curated this exhibit: “Illuminated Perspectives” portrays Pikangikum First Nation and its spectacular beauty. The photos capture the essence of northern wildlife and the people who live there. It tells a story and opens our eyes to a place in our country that many of us didn’t know existed. These photos are much more powerful than just a series of images. They are a statement of culture, heritage, pride, and community. Through the curatorial process, we had the chance to discuss each photo with one another and analyze each of them from our different perspectives. This project, and its resulting exhibit, was an opportunity both to embrace and to learn. To embrace the breathtaking beauty of this community, and to learn more about the lack of opportunities and government support for Pikangikum First Nation and similar communities. We encourage everyone viewing our exhibit to “illuminate their perspectives” on Indigenous issues and triumphs, and to continue educate themselves about this community, its people, their customs and their way of living. Featuring Ojibwe life & people within our community brings more diversity to an already diverse community. We hope that being reminded about Indigenous issues, outside of the new federal holiday that was established for truth and reconciliation, might help people truly comprehend these issues. Many people, when living in a big city like Toronto, forget that they are also a part of a community. We wish that, in some way, “Illuminated Perspective” might make people appreciate the gifts that we, living in Toronto, have. We are extremely grateful that we have had that chance to embrace and to learn through participating in this project. As one of many joint-projects Jamii has shared with Pikangikum First Nation, this photo exhibition is meant to continue connecting our communities together. Such initiatives as “Illuminated Perspectives” help build a stronger bond between our two communities and give us a sense of unity. The togetherness of our communities and friendships we have made through photography is a very precious thing. Supported by:

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

Summer 2022 Community Projects/ Photo Exhibits/ WATER NO GET ENEMY WATER NO GET ENEMY Summer 2022 Summer 2022 As part of Canadian Multiculturalism Day Celebrations 2022 Exhibited at David Crombie Park Murphy Owusu’s photo exhibition entitled “Water No Get Enemy” provides us with an intimate and global perspective on the physical and political landscape of water and humanity. The exhibit brings our attention to global indigenous peoples’ and their everyday acts of resistance against the ongoing extraction of their lands, and encroachment of their way of life. The photo exhibition, unveiled on Canadian Multiculturalism Day June 27, 2022, consists of a selection of 8 photos and it takes us on a journey with Murphy as he reflects on his travels from his home country Ghana, to São Tomé, Ethiopia, and Turtle Island. Through his lens, Murphy reminds us that, despite colonial legacies that separate us from it, we are a part of Nature – the land, its waters and other-than-human life forms. Unveiled on Monday, June 27, 2022 On display from June to November 2022 Filmed and Edited by Recro Digital Marketing Jamii Statement: Jamii’s 2022 theme is titled “Water is Memory”. It is an invitation to (re)connect the memory cells of water to the stories of our community. In “water” we recognize and honour that our neighbourhood, the Esplanade, was under water less than 200 years ago, and the meaning of “Esplanade” is “boardwalk by the water”. We also embrace the unseen waters that bring life to our surroundings as we acknowledge the river that crosses underneath our community. This theme is an opportunity to bring “water” to the forefront of our programming, addressing both issues of environmental degradation, climate change and access or lack thereof to clean drinkable water in many Indigenous communities across so-called Canada, such as our partnering community in Pikangikum First Nation. In “memory”, we dive into exploring how the shared and life-changing memories we create with our community can impact and enhance social cohesion and health outcomes of our community members. You belong to a community if you share its collective memories and thus, memory works as an important agent of social cohesion. All of the artists and contributors to Jamii’s 2022 season are invited to enrich this theme with their own perspective and interpretation. About Photographer Murphy Owusu: Since I was young, I’ve loved taking pictures: I like the idea of freezing a moment in an artistic way. My professional photography journey started in 2016 after my small holiday camera got stolen during a trip in Malaysia. After that, I decided to buy a DSLR camera and this is when I developed my artistic skills as a photographer. I learned about photography by myself. Taking pictures every day is still an opportunity to learn more, to push my skills and photography knowledge. I’ve worked as a photographer in West Africa, mostly Ghana, my home country; in France; and since 2020, in Toronto, Canada. My second passion is travel. I’ve travelled in Europe (France, Belgium, Bulgaria, Netherlands, UK), Africa (Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana, Ethiopia, Sao tomé), Asia (China, Thailand, Malaysia, Japan) and North America (US and Canada). I am passionate about capturing landscapes, people and the history of the places I go to. My third passion is music. I’ve been a music lover since I was young. In Ghana, I had a music production company. Love for both photography and music led me to develop a passion for event photography. Freezing moments, expressions, taking artists’ pictures while performing, is something that I thrive on as an artist. Another passion is to try as much as possible to transcribe other people’s emotions through photography. This is how I specialized my work in four different areas: Events, Portrait, Lifestyle and Travel. I can’t box myself into one single category. Taking pictures allows me to express myself, to say out loud what I can’t say with words. For me a picture worth a thousand words. As a photographer, I am in a constant search for that perfect still moment to capture in a frame. Filmed and Edited by Recro Digital Marketing Artistic Statement by Murphy Owusu: Water brings life to thousands of communities around the world in many different ways. Although millions of people lack access to safe drinking water, it is at the core of sustainable development and is critical for socio-economic development, energy and food production, in addition to healthy ecosystems and for human survival itself. Water means life. To some, it also means business. Some communities have to fight for their right to live out of what they have always known. I wish we could live in a world where people, communities and minorities could be respected – respected for their culture, their traditions and not be taken over by politicians or businessmen. Western culture often forgets about Nature; taking water, food, elements for granted for the “benefit” of digital platforms, virtual world and Metaverse. I believe it is important to show how many indigenous communities around the world are living in harmony with Nature by understanding and honouring it every single day. Through the pictures, you will witness how communities around the world (Ghana, Ethiopia, São Tomé and Príncipe and Turtle Island) live around water and what it means to them. Africa and other places in the world are considered by Western culture as “third world countries”. Yet these people who are considered the ‘poorest people’ will give you and offer you all they have because they have nothing to lose. For me, the one who knows how to share is the richest person. I always say there is love in sharing. I dream of a world where we can share instead of invade, occupy, conquer, annex or win. As the Nigerian afrobeat legend and activist Fela Kuti said in his song, “Water No Get Enemy” because “Nothing without Water”. Supported by:

Winter 2024 Community Projects/ Photo Exhibits/ THE PACT THE PACT Winter 2024 Winter 2024 Exhibited at The Jamii Hub (264 The Esplanade) Since 2022, a group of about 15 girls and young women from The Esplanade has traveled to Farming Futures Coop near Madoc, ON, where they are led by both Jamii and the Becoming Praxis teams for five days of artistic adventures on the land. During this immersive week, the participants, guided by a professional artist, harvest food from the garden, swim in the river, walk through the forest, share stories around the fire, and engage in arts projects. In 2024, the group embraced the challenge of creating a photo exhibition exploring the meaning of friendship. Participants chose the theme, took the photographs, curated the collection, and crafted their own artistic statement, which includes the exhibit’s powerful title:  The Pact.  This project reflects what friendship means to them. Unveiled on Thursday, November 28, 2024 On display from November 2024 to February 2025 CREDITS Producer: Jamii and Becoming Praxis Lead Artist: Nilaya Sabnis Artistic Advisors: Ayelen Liberona, Isorine Marc Photographers: Chloé, Aéla, Santana, Jacqueline, Trinity, Kandi, Ruby, Mila, Garesah, Zélia, Maryam, Lisa, Sanaa and Ariya. Youth support: Karen Lam Coordination & Hearth Care: Lindy Zucker, Angell Owens ARTISTIC STATEMENT BY LEAD ARTIST NILAYA SABNIS: In our week together, I learned a lot about friendship watching the way these incredible girls looked out for each other, tried new things in a new land, played together, and shared an experience that none of us will soon forget. They showed me that friendship is indeed a pact, a decision, a promise, sometimes unspoken, but always shown. Friendship is making sure that everyone gets a cookie before anyone takes seconds. It’s walking the youngest across the field to the outhouse so she doesn’t feel alone and scared. Friendship is noticing when someone is struggling and offering your help. It’s braiding bracelets in the dome, and each other’s hair by the river. Friendship is encouraging someone when they’re trying something new. It’s holding hands on slippery rocks and making sure no one is left behind. Friendship can be quiet, or it can be rowdy. It lasts through laughter and through tears. Friendship is the comfort of knowing you are not going through anything alone. And this is exactly the story these girls have so beautifully told through this series of images, each one unique and true to the vision of artist who made it. It was a privilege to show them basic photography techniques and watch them take it on as their own. I am so proud of them for learning a new language in such a short time and using it to tell this story. But above all, I'm so grateful to them for reminding us all what friendship truly is.  ARTISTIC STATEMENT BY YOUNG PHOTOGRAPHERS: Friendship is like juice boxes. I give you one now because you’re thirsty, and when I’m thirsty, you’ll have one for me too. We share, we care, and we’re here for each other. There are some basics about friendship: trusting each other and creating a space to share our true feelings. You tell each other things you wouldn’t tell anyone else. Respect, care, and support are key. Friends can laugh with each other in a genuine way, tease each other for fun, and know how everyone is feeling. We make sure everyone is included and having a good time. Friendship is also about finding compromises that work for everyone when we don’t agree. Friendship can be complicated. Sometimes, things don’t go right the first time, and you mess things up. But friendship can be wonderful if you work hard at it. One of the most important things about friendship is believing in one another—when we encourage each other, we can do great things that make us feel stronger. Friendship is precious: it’s joyful, warm, and priceless. You’re never alone, with friends who check in on you every day to make sure you’re okay. Older friends show me respect and care, which makes me feel great. We care for each other, and we make sure it’s safe for everyone. Friendship is something you can’t take away. You’re there for your friends, not just in joyful times but also when they’re down, sad, or angry, or feeling anything else. You support them and encourage them to look on the bright side. Friendship brings happiness all around. In the end, friendship is life. Friendship is love. Friendship is happiness for all. And really, making new friends is easy—kindness is the way to go. Be kind to the people you meet because they could become friends who share some of the most wonderful experiences that might transform your life.

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."

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

Summer 2025 Community Projects/ Photo Exhibits/ Mong'Kah'Job Mong'Kah'Job Summer 2025 Summer 2025 As part of Jamii's 7th Annual National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebrations Exhibited at The Esplanade & Berkeley St - David Crombie Park In the spring of 2025, Jamii collaborated with emerging photographer Kurri Quill from Pikangikum First Nation to create Mong'Kah'Job , a stunning photo exhibition unveiled at David Crombie Park on June 21st 2025 as part of Jamii’s Annual Indigenous Day Celebration. Unveiled on Thursday, June 21, 2025 On display from June to November 2025 Producer : Jamii Photographer : Kurri Quill Curator : Isorine Marc Graphic Designer: Iris Unlu Additional Coordination: Vanessa Hazel Funded by: RBC Foundation Emerging Artists, Canadian Heritage, Canada Council for the Arts, Ontario Arts Council. As part of CONTACT, Photography Festival ARTISTIC STATEMENT by Kurri Quill: My name is Kurri Quill. I am from Pikangikum First Nation. I am a self-taught photographer and have been doing photography for 4 years now. I remember buying a canvas with a local photographer’s picture on it, I was blown away and felt so inspired. The picture was so beautiful and thought to myself, “I should get my photos out there too.” One of my biggest inspirations is Denzel Quill, a photographer from Pikangikum. He is extremely talented and has a unique perspective on nature that I find really compelling. His work has really inspired me to explore my own creativity and vision behind the lens. My first camera was a Canon 90D and it came with a kit lens that I’ve been using ever since. My love for photography grew the more I took photos of every little thing. I made sure I had my camera with me wherever I went as I didn’t want to miss that opportunity. Photography helped me notice and appreciate the small details of everyday objects and plants that I overlooked before; the way light hits a leaf or the texture of a flower petal. It opened my eyes. It was like seeing the world for the first time. My first paid photo project was a wedding. I was kind of struggling a little bit because I only had a kit lens that made it difficult for me to shoot in low light environment but I made it work. I’ve spent countless hours watching YouTube videos to develop my own style. While I don’t have formal training, I’m proud of the skills I’ve built and the creative journey I’ve been on. I’ve practiced a wide range of photography techniques and styles, from portrait and landscape to sports and wildlife photography. Photography taught me to appreciate life’s small moments. This photo exhibit is important to me because it allows me to connect with diverse stories and experiences, promoting empathy and understanding through powerful visual narratives. To see the world in new ways, and to appreciate the beauty and complexity of human experience. By sharing these photos, we can build bridges of understanding and foster a more compassionate and connected world. ARTISTIC STATEMENT by Isorine Marc: It is an honour to present the powerful photography of Kurri Quill in our community - a collection that invites us to learn more about Indigenous culture and offers a window into the lives and spirit of Pikangikum First Nation. Curating this exhibition with Kurri has been a delight. I’ve been deeply impressed not only by his photographic talent, but also by his clarity of vision and gift with words. His work speaks volumes. It calls on 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 is a quiet yet powerful invitation to grow closer, to bridge gaps in understanding, and to honour the dignity of each story captured through his lens. In Canada, physical distance separates communities - but the beauty of the arts, and of this exhibition in particular, lies in its ability to transcend that distance. It allows us to see one another more fully. My own journey with Pikangikum has been one of the most transformative experiences of my life. For the past eight years, this connection has shaped me, and I feel deeply grateful that it continues to be part of my story. Thank you, Kurri, for sharing this journey and for opening your heart through this project. PIKANGIKUM FIRST NATION: Pikangikum First Nation is located on Pikangikum Lake, approximately 100 km northwest of Red Lake in Northern Ontario. “Pikangikum” comes from the Ojibway word “Biikanjikamiing,” which refers to how the Berens River flows into Pikangikum Lake on the east, how the lake spreads out from the river on either side, and how the river leaves the lake in the west across from where it enters. It is a community of about 4,000 inhabitants, surrounded by a natural environment. The lakes and the forest are where a majority of community members still derive a significant portion of their domestic and livelihood needs and where they spend a significant portion of the year living on the land, carrying on traditions since time immemorial. RELATION BETWEEN JAMII/THE ESPLANADE COMMUNITY and PIKANGIKUM FIRST NATION: Relationships are central to our lives and help to ground us as individuals, families, and communities. The relationship between the Esplanade community and Pikangikum First Nation began in 2018 when Jamii initiated an intra-provincial project. Since then, Jamii has annually collaborated on arts projects with the Pikangikum Education Authority and Eenchokay Birchstick School, focusing on youth, storytelling, and well-being. One of these recent collaborations includes Darwin Peters creating a mural on the St. Lawrence Community Recreation Centre in Toronto in June 2023. Over time, trust and mutual appreciation between our communities have grown, and we are deeply honored to present Kurri Quill’s work today in our park, continuing to share the stories of the Indigenous peoples of Canada.

Summer 2026 Community Projects/ Photo Exhibits/ PASI PASI Summer 2026 Summer 2026 Unveiled on Friday, May 8, 2026 On display from May to July 2026 along the south side of The Esplanade between Hahn Place and Lower Jarvis St. Produced by JAMII Artistic Director: Isorine Marc Co-Artistic Directors: Laura Dittmann, Jae Yang Photographers: Laura Dittmann, Jae Yang, Gillian Mapp, Abel Tesfaldet, Ana Higuera Figo, Murphy Owusu, André Daley-Wiltshire Graphic Designer: Iris Unlu Project Team: Isorine Marc, Iris Unlu, Yusra Yacout, Claudia Bonilla, Usama Mohamednur Printing Partner: Seven Point Five Funder: The City of Toronto’s Community Celebration Support Fund JAMII STATEMENT: The Esplanade community is so special, and PASI is yet another project that proves it. To celebrate the World in the City theme of the 2026 world soccer tournament in Toronto this June and July, at Jamii we dreamed up a project that would reflect one of the city’s greatest strengths: its diversity. We set out to create a photo exhibition featuring people from all 48 countries participating in the tournament, all living locally, while pushing ourselves into new artistic territory. So off we went. In January 2026, we started putting the call out in our community for people from Ghana, England, Uzbekistan, Korea Republic and beyond. People showed up, one by one, sometimes as families or groups of friends, stepping in front of the camera, proudly holding their flags, standing tall and rooting for their teams to shine this summer. The title of the exhibit is PASI, a Swahili word for a soccer pass. You will notice the soccer ball in most of the photos. Each participant wrote their country name on it, and from East to West, it slowly filled up with all 48 names. It became its own kind of artwork. This project is also a quiet hymn to memory, to what David Crombie Park was just before its revitalization began. We took these photos only days before the first shovels went into the ground. The timing feels rare, almost suspended, capturing a place in that in between moment, just as it was and just before it changed. A special thank you to the 86 people of all ages, from 6 months to 90 years old, who said yes to our playful and sometimes unexpected photoshoots, some even happening during January snowstorms. There is something deeply moving in holding a moment like this, a portrait that sits outside of time and quietly speaks across life and loss. To Henry. Let’s play together. May the best team win. PARTICIPANTS: In order of appearance from Parliament St to Lower Jarvis St. Molly and Susana (Spain); Jeremy, Julien and Juliette (Belgium); Linda, Henry, Melanie and Charlotte (Germany); Camila (Brazil); Alice and Asha (England); Kseniya (Uzbekistan); Claudia and Adriana (Mexico); Jasmin and Sade (Netherlands); Sabrine and Hamoon (Morocco); Yassaman (Iran); Maya (Egypt); Ana Maria, Luz, Carlos and Magnolia (Colombia); Maurice (Ghana); Nandi (France); Jae, Silvia, Celeste and Luna (Korea Republic); Rami (Jordan); Adam (Scotland); Paula and Milana (Croatia); Awa Diagne (Senegal); Mariana and Lucas (Argentina); Zaydaan and Zakariya (South Africa); Jadiel (Panama); Alejandra (Uruguay); Nelson and Mateo (Portugal); Mathijs and Yasmin (Curaçao); Ahmed and Amen (Tunisia); Prince (Côte d’Ivoire); Suzanne, Amari, Rahim, Jaiden and Zain (Haiti); Rhonda (USA); Harmony, Draya, Dennison and dad (Canada); Martin (Cabo Verde); Emiko, Misato, Haruka and Hitomi (Japan); Ziyad (Saudi Arabia); Tine (Norway); dTaborah (Switzerland); Somaya, Wiam (Algeria); Işın Iris and Omelette (Türkiye); Arami and Barbiel (Paraguay); Petr, Jaromir and Lucy (Czechia); Johanna (Sweden); Delila (Bosnia and Herzegovina); Beatrice (Democratic Republic of the Congo); Ahmed and Diyar (Iraq); Quinn and Chris (Australia); Michelle (New Zealand); Miriam (Austria); Vilma (Ecuador). Funded by

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

Summer 2024 Community Projects/ Photo Exhibits/ WANYAMA WA NYUMBANI WANYAMA WA NYUMBANI Summer 2024 Summer 2024 Wanyama wa Nyumbani Photo Exhibits Exhibited at The Esplanade & Berkeley St David Crombie Park As part of Jamii’s Wayo Children’s Festival 2024, we proudly presented a photographic exhibit by Kenyan artist Edwin Maina. Jamii’s Artistic and Executive Director, Isorine Marc, first met Edwin in 2023 while visiting Kenya for the Baraza project. It was a privilege to showcase Edwin’s exceptional talent, featuring his captivating portraits of pet animals in Kenya—some familiar to Canadian viewers and others unique to his region. The exhibit welcomed over 500 visitors during its week-long display. Beyond its striking artistic appeal, Edwin’s work served as an educational experience, broadening young viewers’ understanding of cultural diversity and wildlife across continents. This exhibit reflects Jamii’s commitment to fostering cross-cultural awareness through the arts. Edwin Maina is a self-taught photographer who began the skill as a hobby. Photography has become his artistic outlet as a substitute for words to convey the environments he finds himself in and the people he meets. By styling his talents, creating sets and shooting them aims to convey the African culture in a way not explored before through fashion and art photography. Being a painter since he was a child, the merge of his artistic photographic eye and working with professionals in the creative arts industry excites his soul. Unveiled at WAYO 2024, Jamii's 5th Annual Children's Festival It was on display from August 7 to August 11 CREDITS Producer: Jamii Photographer: Edwin Maina Curator: Isorine Marc ARTISTIC STATEMENT: The exhibition is an exploration of the world of domestic animals here in Africa through editorial photography. We see different ways in which kids interact with domestic animals. There's a lot you can tell about a person from how they treat animals. And this grows into a bigger lesson; us understanding that part of making sure that our children grow into kind and considerate human beings is teaching them to be kind to animals. Animals give us so much, and our existence as human beings would be extremely hard without them. We get to play with them, and for children this is really important. Whether it's in a farm setting with goats and chicken, or in a house setting with cats and dogs. They also learn how to be responsible. How to take care of them by feeding and cleaning them. This responsibility translates into their own lives, from it they'll learn how to be take care of themselves and their surroundings- like their room- too. Learning how to co-exist with a living thing that doesn't speak your words, eat what you eat, look like you do or act like you would teaches children immense patience, understanding and empathy. Things that go a really long way in the world we live in. My art seeks to show the beauty in our everyday lives. What you might miss because you are so used to seeing it, you forget that beauty exists in the mundane, and that the ordinary is exquisite. Key elements of my work are fashion, and human thoughts and dreams translated into a photo. It's capturing the very essence of what makes us be. May this work dare you to dream, but also to take a minute and appreciate what's around you, now.

2025 OUTDOOR EVENTS / WAYO / WAYO 2025 WAYO 2025 JAMII'S 6TH ANNUAL CHILDREN'S FESTIVAL In August 2025, families across Toronto were invited to experience one of the city’s most imaginative and joyful events for young audiences, Wayo, the 6th annual children’s festival presented by us at Jamii. Running from August 7 to 10, WAYO was a four-day celebration designed especially for children under 12 and their families. We transformed two of Toronto’s heritage gems, Berkeley Castle and the Berkeley Theatre ( Canadian Stage ), into an immersive, maze-style journey of discovery and wonder. This year, children had the chance to explore the world one continent at a time through a series of interactive artistic experiences. They dove into the enchanting music of Africa, experienced the magic of Filipino storytelling from Asia, swayed to the sounds of French accordion and Flamenco dancing from Europe, moved to the rhythms of Chilean dance from South America, crafted penguins of icy Antarctica, and were mesmerized by the dances and rhythms of Oceania. At every turn, a new world came to life, inviting festivalgoers to reflect on how many continents we count, where they get their names from, and what the world map looks like when viewed from a different perspective. We were excited to feature a fantastic lineup of artists: Queen Hezumuryango, Michael Mortley, Carmen Romero, Tangi Ropars, Patrick de Belen, Vrunda Upadhyay, Aliki La Bercasio, Ximena Loayza, Osvaldo Barreda, Zully Ceballos, Troy Feldman, Hayley Landry, and Linda Epp. New this year: On August 7, the festival opened with an internationally acclaimed dance performance presented in partnership with SummerWorks . FreeSteps – NiNi by Taiwanese choreographer Wei-Chia Su. This meditative solo invited families to slow down and imagine, setting the tone for the creative adventure ahead.* With tickets at only $5 each, the festival welcomed a record breaking number of audience members: 768 attendees over 16 shows! More than just a festival, WAYO embodied our broader mission to create accessible, inclusive arts experiences that strengthen community and inspire creativity in people of all ages. Special thanks went to our amazing partners, Berkeley Castle and Canadian Stage, and to our generous funders: Canadian Heritage, Canada Council for the Arts, Toronto Arts Council, and Rama Gaming House. FreeSteps - Grand Canyon by HORSE was generously supported with funding from the Taipei Cultural Center in New York, as well as the sponsoring program from National Culture and Arts Foundation Taiwan: Taiwan Top. August 7 to 11 LOCATION Berkeley Castle & Berkeley Theatre CREDITS Presented and Produced by Jamii In Partnership with Canadian Stage and Berkeley Castle ARTISTS North America: Troy Feldman, Stilt Walker - (Aug 7, 8, 10) Hayley Landry, Stilt Walker (Aug 9) Oceania: Aliki La Bercasio, Dancer Europe: Carmen Romero, Dancer Tangi Ropars, Accordionist Asia: Patrick De Belen, Spoken Word Poet Pei-yung Chen, Dancer (FreeSteps – Grand Canyon) Vrunda Upadhyay, Dancer South America: Ximena Loayza, Dancer Osvaldo Barreda, Dancer (Aug 8 & 10) Zully Cevallos, Dancer (Aug 7 & 9) Africa: Queen Hezumuryango, Opera Singer Michael Mortley, Dancer Antarctica: Linda Epp, Face Painter THE JAMII TEAM Isorine Marc, Founder & Alchemist Afnan Yakot, Project & Event Coordinator Iris Unlu, Amplifier (Communications Lead) Yusra Yacout, Enabler (Administrator) Collean Chau, Communications Assistant Jae Yang and Akram Yacout, Photographers Laura Dittmann, Videographer EVENT CREW Aéla Kuria Carolina Rojas Ghader Bsmar Karen Lam Nada Yakot Ruthmarie Williams Tyson Pinette-Hubschmann Zélia Kuria Photos by: Jae Yang

Honour National Indigenous Peoples Day at David Crombie Park with Jamii through Indigenous music, dance, storytelling, art, and community gathering. INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY Jamii's Annual Celebrations Celebrating Indigenous peoples and cultures since 2019 in The Esplanade! WHEN JUNE 21, 2026 SHOW TIMES 6 PM TO 8 PM WHERE DAVID CROMBIE PARK The National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration takes place on June 21st at David Crombie Park and Jamii has been celebrating it since 2019! Every year this event brings the community together to honor Indigenous cultures, traditions, and contributions through live performances, art exhibitions, storytelling, and more. Experience the richness of Indigenous music, dance, and art, while learning about the heritage and resilience of Indigenous peoples. This event is a chance for all ages to come together in solidarity, reflection, and joy. CHECK OUT PREVIOUS YEARS' OF INDIGENOUS DAY CELEBRATIONS 2025 MORE INFO 2021 MORE INFO 2024 MORE INFO 2020 MORE INFO 2023 MORE INFO 2019 MORE INFO 2022 MORE INFO

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

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

With our photo exhibits, our intent is to transform our public space to surprise passers-by, to engage in conversation through arts and to share different perspectives. It is also an amazing opportunity to feature photographers from Toronto and beyond, and to engage community members in curatorial processes. COMMUNITY PROJECTS / PHOTO EXHIBITS PHOTO EXHIBITS Curated by community Our intent is to transform our public space to surprise passers-by, to engage in conversation through arts and to share different perspectives. It is also an amazing opportunity to feature photographers from Toronto and beyond, and to engage community members in curatorial processes. Almost every year, Jamii produces a new photo exhibits to be displayed in our public space - usually David Crombie Park. PASI Summer 2026 MORE INFO WHAT WE REMEMBER Winter 2024 MORE INFO THE PAVILION Summer 2024 MORE INFO JOURNEY FROM... Spring 2023 MORE INFO Mong'Kah'Job Summer 2025 MORE INFO WANYAMA WA NYUMBANI Summer 2024 MORE INFO CALYX Summer 2023 MORE INFO WATER NO GET ENEMY Summer 2022 MORE INFO THE PACT Winter 2024 MORE INFO KOSHKI’ZI Summer 2024 MORE INFO MASHKIKI Summer 2023 MORE INFO THE RED CHAIR SESSIONS Summer 2022 MORE INFO

The Jamii Hub turns into a creative writing sanctuary once a month on Tuesdays! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CREATIVE WRITING / EXPLORING OUR EMOTIONS - SEPTEMBER 2024 DISCOVERING Tuesday 7 pm Creative Writing September 2024 EXPLORING OUR EMOTIONS September 24, 2024 Facilitator: Asha P Exploring our emotions through creative writing Asha P sees stories in everything, embodies stories in all her art practices whether acting or writing. Join a 2-hour session where participants will be led through the journeys our emotions and thoughts take through the art of writing. Participants will get to see their stories come alive on paper, enjoy the senses as they form into words creating an immersive experience. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Shaimaa Yakout Asha P is a writer, dancer, theatre artist with a successful career in Arts management. She is the bestselling author of two poetry books that gained international fame. Her acting career spans many theatre productions on Canadian stage as well as short films. Asha has experience educating youth through the arts and she volunteers her time to raise awareness about mental and emotional health. Photo Credit: Unknown

2020 < Back to Events Itinerant performances CREDITS: WITH THE SUPPORT OF:

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 / Razan Samara Return by Razan Samara November 4 to 23, 2024 DOWNLOAD THE BROCHURE November at Jamii: An Artistic Exploration of Palestinian Culture Join us this November for a captivating artistic journey into Palestinian culture, curated by our lead artist for the month, Razan Samara. Under the theme of "Return" , Razan has brought together a talented group of artists to guide you through a cultural exploration deeply rooted in ancestral practices. Through "Return" , Razan invites us to reconnect with traditions like dance, song, language, and crafts that ground us in our communities, lands, and histories. Razan is a Palestinian community worker, artist, and researcher based in Tkaronto/Toronto. Since 2020, she has been deeply involved in reviving stories of Palestinian embroidery (tatreez) and cultural resistance, facilitating tatreez circles and developing the Tatreez Library , a digital archive dedicated to this craft. She is also a member of the New Committee at Hamilton Artists Inc., an initiative focused on increasing community engagement through decolonization and intersectionality. Additionally, Razan is a PhD student at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, University of Toronto, and a researcher at the Tkaronto CIRCLE Lab, which emphasizes Indigenous feminist ethics. Her creative work and research reflect her dedication to exploring the relationships, resistance, and youth activism shared by Palestinian and Indigenous communities on Turtle Island. Monday Dancing Facilitator: Mona Ayesh MORE INFO Wednesday Sewing Facilitator: Anita Boey MORE INFO Saturday Mingling Lead Artist: Razan Samara MORE INFO Tuesday Discovering Culture Cloths Facilitator: Sabrine S. Hakam MORE INFO Thursday Creating Painting Night Facilitator: Ibrahim Abusitta MORE INFO Tuesday Discovering Book Club Facilitator: Sarah Abu-Sarar MORE INFO Thursday Creating Crafting Night Facilitator: Nadia Shammas MORE INFO Tuesday Discovering Creative Writing Facilitator: Leen Amarin MORE INFO Friday Singing Facilitator: Natalie Fasheh MORE INFO Photos by Jae Yang, Hadeal Karrar, Jeeya Ghandi, Iris Unlu RAZAN SAMARA Razan Samara is a Palestinian community worker, artist, and researcher living in Tkaronto/Toronto. Since 2020, Razan has been deeply engaging with stories of Palestinian embroidery (tatreez) and cultural resistance, facilitating tatreez circles, and developing Tatreez Library, a digital resource on the craft. Razan is a member of the New Committee at Hamilton Artists Inc., an initiative that works to increase community engagement in the arts through the lens of decolonization and intersectionality. Razan is also a PhD student at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, University of Toronto and a researcher at the Tkaronto CIRCLE Lab, a collaborative research lab based in Indigenous feminist ethics. Her creative work aligns with her research interests, which include working from Indigenous epistemologies to consider the relationships, joint resistance, and youth activism between Palestinian and Indigenous communities living on Turtle Island. Photo by Sabrine S. Hakam

The Jamii Hub turns into a singing sanctuary on Fridays! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / SINGING / RETURN - NOVEMBER 2024 SINGING Friday 7 pm RETURN November 2024 November 8 - 15 - 22, 2024 Facilitator: Natalie Fasheh Over three sessions, participants will explore the theme of "return" in relation to Palestinians; their displacement, hopes and wishes of return, and right of return. Participants will learn a song in Arabic relating to the theme. We will have some dialogue about the theme, and through vocal improvisation activities, and engaging singing and harmony warmups, we will also incorporate our collective learnings of "return" into a song. We will have the chance to share these songs in the Saturday mingling event on November 23! 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 Natalie Fasheh Natalie is a Palestinian artist and social impact leader in Toronto. She works with communities as an arts administrator, choir conductor, teaching artist, composer, and writer. She is deeply committed to decolonial and pluralistic art. She is also a community organizer, and leads the protest choir Sumudna صمودنا. Natalie has worked with arts organizations as a producer, and consultant for their strategic plans and programming, from an equity and justice lens. Photo Credit: Unknown UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. No events at the moment

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 / Jonelle Sills Mirrors by Jonelle Sills February 3 to 22, 2025 DOWNLOAD THE BROCHURE February Cycle: Mirrors An opportunity to see how mirrors metaphorically and literally offer us with opportunities to reflect and appreciate ourselves and our communities. A Mirror is more than a surface - in its reflection we see ourselves, not only physically but emotionally. We see the facade of how we present ourselves while dealing with the truth of our inner reality. Through them we confront our past, face our present and dream of the future. They remind us that our reflection is a dialogue and a chance to see our worlds in a new way. When we look into a mirror we are faced with an opportunity to discover what is and could be. Monday Dancing Facilitator: Ysabel Garcia MORE INFO Wednesday Sewing Facilitator: Anita Boey MORE INFO Saturday Mingling Lead Artist: Jonelle Sills MORE INFO Tuesday Discovering Book Club Facilitator: Eshe Mercer-James MORE INFO Thursday Creating Painting Night Facilitator: Curtia Wright MORE INFO Tuesday Discovering Culture Cloths Facilitator: Sabrine S. Hakam MORE INFO Thursday Creating Crafting Night Facilitators: Vicky Wang, Danika Lorèn MORE INFO Tuesday Discovering Creative Writing Facilitator: Joshua “Scribe” Watkis MORE INFO Friday Singing Facilitator: Martin Gomes MORE INFO Photos by Jae Yang, Afnan Yakot, Hadeal Karrar JONELLE SILLS Canadian Soprano Jonelle Sills (pr. Ya-Nell) is one of the most exciting young sopranos of her generation. A JUNO Award nominee with The Canadian Art Song Project for Known to Dreamers: Black Voices in Canadian Art Song for Classical Album of the Year (Small Ensemble), she has also been named one of CBCs Music’s 30 Hot Classical Musicians Under 30. Jonelle has made acclaimed debuts with leading companies, including the Canadian Opera Company as Mimi in La bohème, a performance that was lauded as being a “beautifully sensitive Mimi with careful control and colour” (The Globe and Mail). Other notable roles include Rosalinde (Die Fledermaus) and Donna Anna (Don Giovanni) with Edmonton Opera, Micaëla (Carmen) and Helena (A Midsummer Night’s Dream) with Vancouver Opera, and Anna Glawari (The Merry Widow) with Toronto Operetta Theatre. She has also appeared in recital with the Viano Quartet at the Prince Edward County Chamber Festival. Her company debut with Toronto’s Against The Grain Theatre in Vivier’s Kopernikus earned her a 2019 Dora Award as a member of the ensemble. Jonelle has been an integral collaborator with Jamii since 2020, beginning with a performance alongside Jeremiah Sparks in Wind Stories . Over the years, her creative contributions have spanned various projects, including performing in Wayo (2021), starring in the short film series The Wedding , producing Stolen (2023) and Butterfly Ballet (2023), performing in An Evening with David Crombie (2024), and leading Jamii's February 2025 cycle with the theme of Mirrors. Photo by Sabrine S. Hakam

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

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 / Sharon Zarita Adhiambo Grounded by Sharon Zarita Adhiambo March 3 to 22, 2025 DOWNLOAD THE BROCHURE March Cycle: Grounded A shared reflective experience of what we hold onto within or around us that sustains our personal journeys making life phases fruitful while refreshing those around us. In my journey of becoming an adult, far away from home in Kenya while navigating new realities, I had to find an anchor for the soul. My faith, work in the arts, friendships and Kenyan roots have been the ground that continue to hold me. 7 years later, and now in my 30s. Through these workshops, we let art and community exchanges guide the discovery of what grounds us, or what we need to find grounding on, and pass this discovery to someone else's journey. -Sharon Zarita Adhiambo Monday Dancing Facilitator: Elise McGrenera MORE INFO Wednesday Sewing Facilitator: Anita Boey MORE INFO Saturday Mingling Facilitator:Sharon Zarita Adhiambo MORE INFO Tuesday Discovering Book Club Facilitator: Glodeane Brown MORE INFO Thursday Creating Painting Night Facilitator: Seema Anwar MORE INFO Tuesday Discovering Culture Cloths Facilitator: Sharon Zarita Adhiambo MORE INFO Thursday Creating Crafting Night Facilitator: Seema Anwar, Abi Akinlade & Nyokabi Muchuku MORE INFO Tuesday Discovering Creative Writing Facilitator: Damilola Olajire (SmilingPen) MORE INFO Friday Singing Facilitator: Brian S. Moyo MORE INFO Photos by Jae Yang, Afnan Yakot, Hadeal Karrar, Iris Unlu SHARON ZARITA ADHIAMBO Sharon Zarita Adhiambo is a Kenyan arts administrator, consultant and creative leader whose heart beats for holistic development of people and communities through artistic experiences. Zarita has worked in the arts sector in Kenya and Canada producing projects centered on self expression, social integration, and cultural celebration. Her work is grounded in creating barrier-free spaces where everyone can explore the artist in them while remaining authentic in their identity and stories. Apart from being an arts worker, she strengthens the industry as a mentor and advocate for arts progression. Zarita holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Arts Administration from Humber College and is currently the Arts Program Officer at Assembly Hall, City of Toronto. She is also the founder of Sekoya East Africa, a non-profit that provides emerging crafters and other artists in Kenya accessible professional development resources and mentorship to advance their careers locally, produce artwork with a global influence and have a peer community to belong to. Since 2019, she has worked with Jamii in various capacities and projects with the most recent being The Little Esplanade. She is delighted to join Jamii’s community this March as a guest curator alongside other incredible artists. Photo by Sabrine S. Hakam

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

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

Culture Cloths FLAMENCO - MARCH 2024 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / TUESDAY DISCOVERING / CULTURE CLOTHS / LEARNING Tuesday 7 pm Culture Cloths FLAMENCO March 2024 March 12, 2024 Lead Artist: Tamar Ilana The March edition of Culture Cloths delves into the world of flamenco under the guidance of our lead artist and seasoned flamenco dancer, Tamar Ilana. Known for its expressive movements and storytelling through dance, flamenco is known for its bold outfits and accessories that play an ode to the dance's rich cultural heritage. Together, we will explore the vibrancy of the fringed shawls, ruffled dresses, and castanets that add to the drama and intensity of this dance as we dig deeper into its fascinating history. Join us for a fascinating conversation facilitated by Sabrine S. Hakam and featuring Tamar Ilana. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Ghader Bsmar, Jae Yang Sabrine S. Hakam | Instagram Sabrine S. Hakam is a Toronto-based artist and thinker whose style of symbolism-infused portraits foster discussions on identity, representation, and power. Sabrine holds a PhD in Geography (Arts) from King’s College London, as well as an MSc in Urbanisation and Development from the London School of Economics, an MPhil in Development Studies from the University of Oxford, and a BSc from New York University. Her work situates itself at the nexus of academia and art in order to humanize the subjects of academic work.

INDOOR ACTIVITIES / LAINI / MOVIE NIGHTS LAINI Youth A Jamii initiative to encourage girls and young women to explore art and leadership! MOVIE NIGHTS March to August 2026 - Ages 6 to 11 These events are led and supervised by Jamii staff Upcoming 2026 dates: Saturday, March 28, 2026. Ballerina Saturday, May 2, 2026. The Sea Beast Saturday, May 30, 2026. Over the Moon Friday, July 24, 2026. The Wild Robot Saturday, August 22, 2026. Encanto All events are from 6pm to 8pm at The Jamii Hub (264 The Esplanade). LAINI Girls’ Movie Nights is a free series of drop-off movie evenings for girls ages 6 to 11 at The Jamii Hub. Each screening brings girls together to watch a family film, share pizza and popcorn, and spend time in a warm, welcoming space led and supervised by Jamii’s team. It is a chance to relax, laugh, and enjoy a fun night out that feels easy, social, and special. As part of Jamii’s LAINI program, these movie nights are shaped by the same spirit of connection, creativity, and belonging that runs through our work with girls and families in Toronto. While each evening centres on a different film, the heart of the series stays the same: giving girls a place where they can feel comfortable, included, and excited to spend time together. Across the series, participants will watch animated films that are thoughtful, visually engaging, and full of heart. The movie choices lean into themes like courage, family, friendship, imagination, and finding your place, which makes each screening feel fun, meaningful, and easy to connect with. Together, they create the kind of movie night experience that feels exciting for kids while still holding the warmth and care that families have come to expect from Jamii. For families looking for free programs for girls in Toronto, kids’ movie nights in downtown Toronto, or welcoming community programs on The Esplanade, LAINI Girls’ Movie Nights offers a simple and joyful way to take part. These evenings are designed especially for girls ages 6 to 11 and are held as drop-off events, with Jamii staff present throughout the full screening. These events 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. REGISTER NOW These events are led and supervised by Jamii staff

October 2024 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / DANCING / IGAL FROM PHILIPPINES -OCTOBER 2024 DANCING Cycles 2024 October 2024 IGAL FROM PHILIPPINES October 7 - 14 - 21, 2024 from 7pm to 8:30pm Facilitator: Candace Kumar Discovering Igal Dance Candace Kumar is offering a series of creative Filipino cultural dance workshops rooted in Igal dance. Igal is a meditative dance form originating from the Sama Indigenous communities across the Philippines and Maritime Southeast Asia. Igal connects us to land and the environment around us, encouraging us to slow down, move intentionally and listen to our breath. Participants will be guided through a sensory meditation, and exploratory movement exercises, and will learn a short structured piece. Embodying the theme TEKA LANG, come explore slowing down in the community and movement! We expect you to come and join us to discover (or explore further) Igal dance in this series of unique dance workshops for all levels. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED 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 Jae Yang, Hadeal Karrar Photo Credit: Unknown Candace Kumar Candace is a Filipino cultural dance artist, educator and choreographer. She has trained for over 18 years in Filipino dance, researching and performing diverse styles from all across the Philippines. Candace has toured throughout North America and Europe, sharing and teaching Filipino dance traditions. Her work aims to reimagine traditional dance forms from the Canadian diaspora. As a diasporic artist, Candace believes cultural dance can guide us through the future as we navigate life on land that is not our ancestral home. Upcoming Dates UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. No events at the moment

Culture Cloths RETURN - NOVEMBER 2024 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / TUESDAY DISCOVERING / CULTURE CLOTHS / DISCOVERING Tuesday 7 pm Culture Cloths RETURN November 2024 November 5, 2024 Lead Artist: Razan Samara Join us for the next Culture Cloths, an evening of conversation designed by Sabrine S Hakam, featuring Jamii's lead artist Razan Samara and moderated by Tameem Rahal. This month’s Culture Cloths delves into the art of Palestinian embroidery, known as Tatreez , a profound emblem of identity, resilience, and a yearning for return. Through intricate stitching and patterns, Tatreez weaves together personal and collective narratives woven across generations. This evening is designed as a conversation with Jamii's November Artist Lead Razan Samara. Razan is a Palestinian community worker, artist, and researcher based in Tkaronto/Toronto. Since 2020, she has been deeply involved in reviving stories of Palestinian embroidery (tatreez) and cultural resistance, facilitating tatreez circles and developing the Tatreez Library , a digital archive dedicated to this craft. She is also a member of the New Committee at Hamilton Artists Inc., an initiative focused on increasing community engagement through decolonization and intersectionality. Additionally, Razan is a PhD student at the Ontario Institute for Studies in Education, University of Toronto, and a researcher at the Tkaronto CIRCLE Lab, which emphasizes Indigenous feminist ethics. Her creative work and research reflect her dedication to exploring the relationships, resistance, and youth activism shared by Palestinian and Indigenous communities on Turtle Island. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Ghader Bsmar, Jae Yang, Hadeal Karrar Sabrine S. Hakam | Instagram Sabrine S. Hakam is a Toronto-based artist and thinker whose style of symbolism-infused portraits foster discussions on identity, representation, and power. Sabrine holds a PhD in Geography (Arts) from King’s College London, as well as an MSc in Urbanisation and Development from the London School of Economics, an MPhil in Development Studies from the University of Oxford, and a BSc from New York University. Her work situates itself at the nexus of academia and art in order to humanize the subjects of academic work.

October 2026 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / DANCING / TAP INTO RHYTHM DANCING Cycles Workshops October 2026 TAP INTO RHYTHM Monday, October 5, Tuesday, October 13, and Monday, October 19 and 26 from 7 PM to 8:30 PM Facilitator: Elise McGrenera 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. 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 OPENS ON SEPT 10 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. No events at the moment

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

LAINI - Release of Liability I hereby release Jamii, its officers, employees, volunteers, agents, and representatives from any and all liability for loss, damage, or injury, including death, to myself or my property, whether caused by negligence or otherwise, during LAINI Workshop activities. I understand that this waiver is binding on my heirs, executors, administrators, and assigns. By checking this box, I confirm that I understand and agree to the terms outlined in this release of liability form.

The Jamii Hub on The Esplanade is home to singing workshops throughout the year! Experience the dynamics of group singing in a welcoming atmosphere. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / Singing SINGING Cycles Workshops Jamii’s Singing workshops invite participants to explore voice, sound, and shared expression in a welcoming, community-centred setting. Each month features a guided singing series led by a professional artist, drawing from different musical traditions, styles, and cultural practices. Singing workshops may include group singing, vocal warm-ups, rhythm and breath work, listening, and creative exploration. Sessions are designed to be accessible and low-pressure, welcoming people of all experience levels, including those who may not see themselves as singers. Participants can choose to attend all sessions in a month to build confidence and connection over time, or register for a single session to experience the workshop. Registration is required for each individual session, and spaces are limited. Workshops are free to attend. Registration opens on the 10th of the previous month at 12:00 AM. AGE GROUP | All Ages - Children under 12 are welcome when accompanied by an adult FREE ADMISSION | REGISTRATION REQUIRED | NO PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE NEEDED REGISTER NOW November 2026 SONGS THAT FEEL LIKE HOME November 2 - 9 - 16 - 23 - 30, 2026 Facilitator: Maryem Hassan Tollar MORE INFO May 2025 JI GOE AND JAPANESE FOLK SONGS Facilitator: Aki Takahashi MORE INFO November 2024 RETURN Facilitator: Natalie Fasheh MORE INFO September 2026 IMPULSE: SINGING, RHYTHM, AND PLAY September 8 - 14 - 21 - 28, 2026 Facilitator: Natalie Fasheh MORE INFO April 2025 VOICES OF ANDES Facilitator: Jaime Stears MORE INFO October 2024 EXPLORING SINGING AND DEEP REFLECTION Facilitator: Victoria Sawal MORE INFO May 2026 SAKURA: SPRING SONG May 4 - 11 - 19 - 25, 2026 Facilitator: Aki Takahashi MORE INFO March 2025 TRADITIONAL CELEBRATION SONGS FROM SOUTHERN AFRICA Facilitator: Brian S. Moyo MORE INFO September 2024 CARNATIC SINGING Facilitator: Ganesh Iyer MORE INFO February 2026 SINGING YOUR HEART OUT February 2 - 9 - 17 - 23, 2026 Facilitator: Martin Gomes MORE INFO February 2025 THE MUSICAL TRADITION OF SPIRITUALS Facilitator: Martin Gomes MORE INFO June 2024 EXPLORING MELODIES AND CREATING A COMMUNAL SONG Facilitator: Paula Sofía Morales, Nickeshia Garrick MORE INFO Calendar UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Tue, Sep 08 September Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Sep 08, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing, play, and follow your impulse. A four-part singing workshop led by Natalie Fasheh. Free with registration. Mon, Sep 14 September Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Sep 14, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing, play, and follow your impulse. A four-part singing workshop led by Natalie Fasheh. Free with registration. Mon, Sep 21 September Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Sep 21, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing, play, and follow your impulse. A four-part singing workshop led by Natalie Fasheh. Free with registration. Mon, Sep 28 September Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Sep 28, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing, play, and follow your impulse. A four-part singing workshop led by Natalie Fasheh. Free with registration. 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. Free with registration. 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. Free with registration. 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. Free with registration. 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. Free with registration. 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. Free with registration.

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:

Welcome to The Jamii Hub where we enhance togetherness through arts! Check out our workshops and activities, and enjoy the richness of our community, The Esplanade! Crafting moments, creating memories: Join us at workshops & activities! Join us at The Jamii Hub, our vibrant art space nestled in the heart of The Esplanade, where creativity knows no bounds. Designed for diverse individuals and families who live and work within our community, our indoor activities offer an oasis for Esplanadians to explore, create, and connect. Discover a world of artistic expression through our two distinctive categories of indoor activities. Dive into our Monthly Themed Activities and Workshops, where each month brings a fresh theme curated by a lead artist. From Monday's captivating dance sessions to Sunday's soul-stirring poetry workshops, immerse yourself in a three-week journey of self-discovery and creativity. Explore diverse art forms, from painting nights to community sing-alongs, and celebrate your creations with our monthly Saturday Mingling gatherings. In addition to our themed activities, our Regular Programs offer a variety of workshops catering to different age groups and interests. Whether it's the Belonging movement and visual art workshops for older adults or the LAINI Youth sessions empowering young women, there's something for everyone at The Jamii Hub. Best of all, all our activities and workshops are led by experienced artists and are completely free of charge. Don't miss this opportunity to unleash your creativity and connect with your community. Register now to secure your spot in our upcoming events! Jamii's workshops and activities take place at The Esplanade's community arts space: THE J AMII HUB | 264 The Esplanade CYCLES - ALL AGES MORE INFO LAINI - YOUTH MORE INFO BELONGING - OLDER ADULTS MORE INFO MINI MAKING MORE INFO THANKS TO OUR SUPPORTERS:

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

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