EMERGING ARTISTS Jamii's RBC Emerging Artist Program NOOSA ZEIN, DANCE LEARNING EXPERIENCE WITH JAMII Since Fall 2024, I’ve had the privilege of being part of the Emerging Artist Programme through Jamii, a program designed to support emerging artists, particularly those who are BIPOC and women-identifying. This program offered me a unique opportunity to work alongside Emilio Esteban, a choreographer and dancer with whom I’ve shared the stage since 2019 as part of theTEAM . Emilio was not only my teammate but also our dance director, and his mentorship felt like the perfect fit for me. We worked together from September to October 2024 on a dance performance to be showcased at Pulse, a local event. The process of curating the performance from scratch was super interesting and eye-opening. I never realized how much went into creating a dance piece for an event—it wasn’t just about the choreography or the moves, but the entire concept; recruiting your people for a performance (Which are 99.9% of the time unpaid gigs), conforming to the event’s theme, selecting the music/order of music, picking costumes, and ensuring everything aligned with the story we wanted to tell. Being on the other side of the performance by supporting Emilio in this role gave me a deeper appreciation for the logistical and creative work that happens behind the scenes. I began to understand that choreography is not just a reflection of personal expression but also an intricate, collaborative effort that requires a thoughtful approach to every detail. Seeking to further expand my knowledge and skills, I decided to invest in myself by purchasing a 5-class pass at Studio North Toronto. This dance studio is known for offering classes with independent teachers, and I was eager to learn from a variety of perspectives rather than sticking to comfortability. The classes challenged me in new ways by pushing me to become a more versatile dancer. I was exposed to different teaching styles, and classes introduced me to new techniques and approaches to movement. It felt like a refreshing journey of discovery as I honed my skills and broadened my understanding of dance. I learned not only how to approach different styles from different teachers, but also how to push my body and mind to explore new creative possibilities. The experience at Studio North made me realize how important it is to seek out new challenges, to step outside of your comfort zone, and to continuously seek growth as an artist. One of the most impactful learning experiences came from a private lesson with Carl Mandac, one of my closest choreographers who was our former director on theTEAM. Carl is known for his creative choreography, and he crafted a performance-worthy piece for me to learn for fun. This was an intense but rewarding experience, as I had to fully immerse myself in the piece, focusing on both precision and expression, especially due to the 1 on 1 setting. What made the lesson even more enriching was Carl’s collaboration with Kristina, a talented videographer who works closely with choreographers and performing artists in the dance community. Carl granted me permission to showcase my take on his choreography while working alongside Kristina. Kristina’s expertise added a new dimension to my learning. While Carl taught me the moves to the choreography itself, Kristina coached me on how to translate my performance for the camera. I had never fully realized how nerve-wracking it could be to perform a solo act on film until I was in front of the camera myself. Kristina taught me grounding techniques, such as breath control, sensory grounding, and the importance of feeling my feet firmly planted on the ground when my anxiety spikes a bit. These techniques supported me in calming my nerves and improving my focus. Kristina also emphasized how nerves and emotions are incredibly readable to an audience, both in-person and on-screen, and she taught me how to stay present and grounded, even when under pressure. Through these experiences, I came to realize that performing is about much more than just executing choreography—it’s about truly embodying the song and its emotional message. Kristina’s guidance helped me understand the importance of interpreting the music as if I were the artist singing it, connecting with its emotional depth and expressing that through my movement. This concept completely shifted my approach to dance performance, as I began to see performances not just as a series of steps, but as a way of telling a story and connecting with the audience on an emotional level. I had always believed I was a good dancer, but learning how to channel emotion and intention into my performance took it to a whole new level. The physicality of dance was now intertwined with the emotional aspect of the music, and I learned how to bring both together to create a compelling performance. This experience also reminded me of how dance is both personal and universal. Dance is a way to communicate with others without words. It’s about vulnerability, emotion, and connection. It's a never ending journey of learning; there is always something new to learn. This realization has deepened my love for dance, and I’m now excited to approach every upcoming performance with a better sense of intention and awareness as a performer not just through my physical movies, but of the emotional story I want to tell through them. I am incredibly grateful for this experience presented to me through Jamii with the support of the RBC Emerging Artist program, and I am excited to bring this back full circle in my own journey as a leader in dance. PROJECT LINK COMING SOON ARTIST'S PAGE NOT AVAILABLE NOOSA ZEIN: Coming soon! FUNDERS:

EMERGING ARTISTS Jamii's RBC Emerging Artist Program KURRI QUILL, PHOTOGRAPHY LEARNING EXPERIENCE WITH JAMII In the spring of 2025, Jamii collaborated with emerging photographer Kurri Quill from Pikangikum First Nation to create Mong'Kah'Job , a photo exhibition unveiled in David Crombie Park on June 21, 2025, as part of Jamii’s Annual Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration and Jamii’s Emerging Artist Program, supported by the RBC Foundation. As part of the project, Kurri joined Jamii for a week-long residency in Toronto in June 2025. During this time, he participated in the exhibition unveiling and took part in a series of one-on-one mentorship sessions with local photographers, fostering artistic exchange, dialogue, community connection, and creative growth. This experience contributed to shape his artistic practice in meaningful and lasting ways. With Jae Yang, Kurri explored photography through simplicity and observation. Using basic point-and-shoot cameras, they walked through the St. Lawrence Market area capturing moments that “caught our attention.” Kurri shared, “I was kind of struggling a little, but it was fun. I wished we had more time - he made photography fun.” Jae encouraged him to begin a “Project 52” challenge to develop intentional storytelling. Jae reflected, “I noticed how naturally Kurri gravitated toward street signage and textures - he was already developing his own style. I learned as much from him as he did from me.” Gillian Mapp met with Kurri twice, focusing on portrait work and editing. She introduced him to film photography, lending him her own camera. Kurri said, “It was quite the challenge, but I realized I want a film camera of my own!” Gillian shared, “We explored how editing shapes narrative. Introducing film allowed Kurri to slow down and become more intentional with each shot.” With Murphy Owusu, the focus was artistic identity and confidence. Murphy encouraged him to remain rooted in portrait photography: “It made sense to me - my love for portraits brought me here.” Laura Dittman expanded Kurri’s technical and creative experimentation, introducing him to an 85mm lens and playful effects using glass. “It made me fall in love with that lens,” Kurri noted. Across all four mentorships, Kurri found inspiration, encouragement, and artistic clarity. The mentors, in turn, were moved by his openness, curiosity, and growing strength as a storyteller. Kurri photographic exhibit is displayed in David Crombie Park as part of this project us to learn more about Indigenous culture and offers a window into the lives and spirit of Pikangikum First Nation. Isorine Marc, Jamii’s Artistic and Executive Director says “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.” For Kurri, this photo exhibit is important “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.” Thank you to the RBC Foundation for supporting Jamii’s Emerging Artist program. SEE PROJECT SEE ARTIST'S PAGE KURRI QUILL: Kurri Quill is a self-taught photographer from Pikangikum First Nation. Inspired by the work of local artists and the beauty of the natural world, he first picked up a camera to share his own perspective through images. He is drawn to capturing the small details that often go unnoticed — the way light falls on a leaf or the texture of a flower petal — and believes photography is a way to see the world anew. Kurri’s practice spans portraits, landscapes, sports, and wildlife, shaped by dedicated self-learning and an eagerness to grow his creative vision. Through his work, he hopes to connect people with diverse stories and encourage a deeper appreciation for everyday moments and shared human experience. FUNDERS:

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

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

EMERGING ARTISTS Jamii's RBC Emerging Artist Program LEAH KING, PHOTOGRAPHY LEARNING EXPERIENCE WITH JAMII In June 2024, Jamii was delighted to welcome Leah King, a talented photographer from the Pikangikum First Nation, to Toronto for a week-long residency as part of the RBC Emerging Artist program. This enriching experience, held on The Esplanade, was a celebration of artistic growth, community connection, and cultural exchange. Koshki'Zi Photo Exhibition: Leah's artistic statement for her photo exhibition talks about Indigenous empowerment: "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. " The exhibit was unveiled in June 2024 and displayed in David Crombie park through the year for thousands to enjoy. Leah shared that unveiling Koski'Zi was significant both personally and for her community back home. “It was important for me to go because it’s my work, and I’m showing people back home that big opportunities do happen. The Esplanade felt like home, with welcoming people, laughter, and bonding,” she said. Click here for more information about Koshki'Zi. Toronto Residency - Artistic Growth and Mentorship Leah’s residency in The Esplanade was marked by valuable mentorship from local artists who shared their unique insights and techniques: Jae Yang introduced Leah to the art and philosophy of street photography during a photo walk in the Distillery District. “It was amazing to hang out with Leah, discuss photography basics, and learn about her life in Pikangikum,” Jae reflected. Laura Dittmann reignited her own passion for photography while working with Leah. “We experimented with light, color, and playful techniques. I was thrilled to gift her a glass prism to inspire future creativity,” Laura shared. Sabrine S. Hakam focused on self-portraits and branding. “We explored the technical aspects of photography, like lighting and composition, while emphasizing personal expression. Our discussions about self-branding and portfolio building were particularly rewarding,” said Sabrine. Murphy Owusu taught Leah practical skills for composition and space-filling. “She has a keen eye and is eager to learn. I advised her to embrace her culture in her work as she’s a powerful voice for the youth,” Murphy commented. Gillian Mapp guided Leah around the city, sharing tips on street photography and introducing her to hidden gems in Toronto. Leah’s Perspective For Leah, the highlight of her week was the vibrant interactions and community engagement. “The mingling was unforgettable. I met people, tried traditional foods, and listened to music and poetry. I learned to step out of my shell, seek help when needed, and have confidence in my work,” Leah said. She fondly recalled learning not to preview her photos while shooting—a lesson from Jae Yang—and embracing spontaneity. Reflecting on her mentors, Leah appreciated the varied guidance: “Laura taught me to experiment with what I have; Sabrine emphasized the importance of branding and portrait techniques; Murphy’s advice on grid lines and composition was invaluable. Gillian showed me the city and the cool spots for street photography.” A Community Connection Maddy’s participation extended beyond her mentorship. She attended Jamii’s celebrations of National Indigenous Peoples Day and Canada Multiculturalism Day, where she unveiled her photographic exhibition, Koshki'zi. The experience was significant both personally and for her community back home. "It was important for me to go because it’s my work, and I’m showing people back home that big opportunities do happen. The Esplanade felt like home, with welcoming people, laughter, and bonding,” she said. Looking Ahead Leah’s week in Toronto was more than an artistic journey; it was an experience of personal growth, inspiration, and connection. “Chi mii’gwetch for having me and for this amazing opportunity,” she concluded. Jamii is proud to have hosted Leah and looks forward to her continued success and future collaborations. SEE PROJECT SEE ARTIST'S PAGE LEAH KING: 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. FUNDERS:

EMERGING ARTISTS Jamii's RBC Emerging Artist Program JONELLE SILLS, MUSIC LEARNING EXPERIENCE WITH JAMII As part of the RBC Emerging Artist Program at Jamii, Jonelle Sills was invited to be Jamii’s Lead Artist for the month of February. This role offered her the opportunity to take on responsibilities similar to that of a programming director and curator. Jonelle chose a theme that resonated deeply with her, designed the month’s programming around it, and selected a diverse and inspiring group of artists to collaborate with. Together, they facilitated workshops and created content that reflected her vision and values. Throughout the month, Jonelle played an active role in leading and participating in numerous community events hosted at The Jamii Hub. These included the weekly series of activities such as Monday Dancing , Tuesday Discovering , Wednesday Sewing , Thursday Creating , and Friday Singing . She also hosted a special Connector event—an evening dedicated to gathering all participating artists to share a meal and reflect on their experiences throughout the month. To close her residency, she produced a culminating event that brought together artists and community members in a joyful celebration filled with conversation, connection, and shared food. Her chosen theme, “Mirrors,” served as a powerful metaphor, encouraging both literal and emotional reflection. In her words, “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 what could be.” This experience allowed Jonelle to grow as an artist and leader, while developing valuable skills in curatorial planning, collaborative leadership, and community engagement. She was mentored throughout the process by Isorine Marc, whose guidance and support played a significant role in helping Jonelle step confidently into this leadership position. In addition to her curatorial work, Jamii produced a short video featuring Jonelle discussing mental health for artists, which is now available on both her website and Jamii’s platforms. She also received a new set of professional artistic headshots by photographer Sabrine S. Hakam, adding another layer of professional development to her time as Lead Artist. Reflecting on her experience, Jonelle shared, “Being a Lead Artist in February with Jamii Esplanade allowed me to gain invaluable insight into curatorial practice while deepening my connection to community-based art. The opportunity helped me strengthen my network of artists and collaborators. It was truly empowering to give my colleagues work opportunities and create space to grow community. Creating and executing the theme of Mirrors allowed me to amplify my voice and artistic vision in meaningful ways. With the generous support of the Jamii team, I felt both empowered and uplifted, enabling me to step into this leadership role with confidence. The experience also offered a powerful platform for visibility, allowing me to share my voice more widely and authentically while working deeply within the community. It was a transformative and inspiring chapter in my artistic journey.” We believe this opportunity will open new doors in Jonelle’s career by expanding her professional network, enhancing her programming and facilitation experience, and strengthening her connection to community-based art practices. It was an honor to have Jonelle as part of Jamii’s RBC Emerging Artist program and lead programming at The Jamii Hub. SEE PROJECT SEE ARTIST'S PAGE 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. FUNDERS:

EMERGING ARTISTS Jamii's RBC Emerging Artist Program YASMINE OMAR, PHOTOGRAPHY LEARNING EXPERIENCE WITH JAMII Going to Kenya as a young photographer changed me a lot. I had never experienced anything like this trip before. As a photographer it was my first time stepping into a whole new side of the world; This trip was a transformative experience that would shape both artistic vision and personal growth. I never imagined myself going to Africa due to a lack of funds and opportunity, even though it was my motherland. Just taking my first international flight was so exciting. From the moment I arrived in Kenya, it felt like a new world. It wasn't like what I'm used to – the sounds of people talking in their mother tongue so openly and proudly, something I only did at home in Toronto. I was amazed by how different things were. Although I was the farthest I've been from home, I was lucky to be with three incredible women – Isorine Marc, Aline Morales, and Takako Segawa – they always made me feel at home. I was fortunate to learn from them on this trip, and I'm grateful they are who I'll remember when I look back at this unforgettable memory. Exploring Kenya was a beautiful experience. One of my favorite moments was learning about the vibrant world of Kenyan art through muralist Douglas Smoki Kihiko. He gave us a tour around the city where we were able to check out different murals and learn the stories about the talented artists in the city. I loved genuinely connecting with people in Kenya with the help of Jamii. We were able to actually get to know artists and hear their stories, and as a storytelling photographer, it allowed me to capture things in Kenya in an honest and real way. A highlight was showcasing my photography in a Kenyan cafe. At the showcase, my images were printed and framed by Kenyan Artist Vinny, which was very special. I was grateful to be able to show my work on a whole different side of the world and see how it connected with people. It was a moment I would never forget as an artist. The Rubiri School in Naivasha left an unforgettable mark. It was so beautiful to see Aline, Takako, and Isorine lead workshops with youth and teach them the arts and dance. After workshops, curious students learned to use my cameras, taking test shots, and I ended up capturing class photos for them as a memorable keepsake for my new friends. Experiencing how art connects us was beautiful. I was inspired daily by talented artists and warm-hearted individuals I met in Kenya. These transformative weeks had a crazy impact on my journey, making the experience unforgettable. It was truly a dream come true. SEE PROJECT SEE ARTIST'S PAGE YASMINE OMAR: Yasmine Omar, based in Toronto, is a photographer and director who tells meaningful stories through her art. Her goal is to inspire by creating emotional connections in the portraits she captures. Yasmine is drawn to genuine moments, aiming to freeze them in time for everlasting impact. Yasmine was one of the 4 artists traveling to Kenya in 2023 with Jamii. FUNDERS:

EMERGING ARTISTS Jamii's RBC Emerging Artist Program TINA ABDELBASIT, VISUAL ARTS LEARNING EXPERIENCE WITH JAMII As part of Jamii’s Emerging Artist Program, supported by the RBC Foundation, Jamii invited Tina Abdelbasit to participate in the creation of a mural project, mentored by Jieun Kim. The experience offered Tina a hands-on learning opportunity in bringing art to public spaces, collaborating with one of Toronto’s leading muralists, and engaging directly with the community to ensure their voices were central to the creative process. Through this project, Tina demonstrated her talent, ambition, and dedication, contributing meaningfully to a professional and community-centered public artwork. The mural is located on the South side of the St Lawrence Market. Tina reflected on her experience and shared with us: “I learned so much during my time at Jamii working on the mural. I faced some challenges but overall, I feel like the experience helped me grow as an artist, an individual and a community member. On my first day, I was immediately welcomed into the Jamii community. Everyone seemed to already have a level of trust in me and my skills that I did not expect which gave me a confidence boost right away. I expected to have to prove myself first but even on my very first day, I felt like the people around me believed in me. This day set the tone for the rest of my experience at Jamii. One of the challenges I faced was my lack of experience in spray painting. Spray painting was to be a huge part of the mural and I wanted to help the Laini girls practice doing it but I had little experience myself. It turned out that with a little practice of my own and guidance and tips from the artist, Jieun Kim, I felt confident enough to help others. The youth that we worked with were extremely creative and had ambitious ideas that made me want to push myself and my technical skills in order to be able to make their vision a reality. Another challenge was navigating obstacles around the technical aspects of painting the mural such as how we were going to reach the very top of the wall or getting the right colors and materials. Everyone I worked with was always so prepared to pivot and come up with ways to continue working despite the challenges. This taught me to keep calm when obstacles occur because we shared a common goal and everyone seemed to be willing to try their hardest in order to reach it. Because of this, we always found a solution and had fun doing it. This experience was the best I could have asked for as my first time working in a professional setting as an artist. I was able to work closely with Jieun and learn so much from her as well as being supported by the Jamii team the whole way through. I left feeling like I have truly become a part of the community.” In Jieun Kim's words: " Tina’s mentorship with me throughout the mural workshop was a rewarding experience. As my mentee, she embraced the challenge of learning how to create large-scale murals while also discovering the joy and responsibility of working with children. Her cheerful energy quickly made her a favourite among the kids, and she played a meaningful role in helping each of them develop confidence in their artistic abilities. The final mural at St. Lawrence Market stands as a beautiful testament to this shared journey. It was a meaningful creation shaped by the children’s ideas and guided by our collective efforts. From the design stage to painting and execution, Tina contributed thoughtfully and skillfully, making the project richer for everyone involved. " A special thank you to the RBC Foundation for supporting this program and providing the next generation of artists with opportunities to grow and establish themselves in the local arts community. SEE PROJECT ARTIST'S PAGE TINA ABDELBASIT: Tina Abdelbasit is a Sudanese painter based in Toronto where she is currently undergoing her undergraduate degree at York University in visual art. Her work is heavily inspired by her relationship with her family and all the different cultures she was exposed to growing up in the middle east. Tina's paintings often draw from her real life or childhood memories and focus on representing human beings beyond what is on the surface. FUNDERS:

EMERGING ARTISTS Jamii's RBC Emerging Artist Program MORNINGSTAR QUILL, PHOTOGRAPHY LEARNING EXPERIENCE WITH JAMII Booshoo, my name is Morningstar Quill. This summer, Jamii displayed my photos in Toronto, as part of the Mashkiki exhibition in partnership with Contact, Photography Festival. I had the honour of working with and getting to know photographer Sabrine S. Hakam during my week-long stay in The Esplanade neighbourhood. Between visits of artistic institutions, Sabrine and I had the opportunity to work together to produce an image of two women of various ethnic backgrounds coming together and are able to become friends - a self-portrait. I've gained a great deal of knowledge from Sabrine and her photographic work, and I believe she has gained the same. For me, Jamii adds to my experiences and helps me make a name for myself and my art so that maybe someday I'll be able to walk through doors. SEE PROJECT SEE ARTIST'S PAGE MORNINGSTAR QUILL: Morningstar Quill is a self-taught photographer who has developed a unique style and approach to photography through years of experimentation and exploration. Born and raised in Pikangikum, she discovered her passion for photography at a young age and has been refining her skills ever since. Without formal training in photography, Morningstar turned to books, online tutorials, and experimentation to hone her craft. She spent countless hours studying the work of other photographers, analyzing their techniques and styles, and incorporating what she learned into her own work. Morningstar's work is characterized by capturing just anything nature and wildlife. She has a keen eye for capturing the essence of detail, whether it be landscapes, portraits, or street photography. Morningstar Quill continues to push the boundaries of her craft, always experimenting with new techniques and approaches to capture the world around her. She remains committed to her passion for photography and looks forward to sharing her unique perspective with the world for years to come. FUNDERS:

EMERGING ARTISTS Jamii's RBC Emerging Artist Program AKRAM YACOUT, PHOTOGRAPHY LEARNING EXPERIENCE WITH JAMII Working with Jamii was honestly a big step for me, both as a person and as an artist. It gave me the chance to see my photography in a new way and to push myself past where I thought I was at. Having mentorship, collaboration, and the space to learn made me realize how much growth can happen when you’re in the right environment. Artistic and Personal Learnings In my session with Laura, I picked up some lessons that really changed how I look at my work. She showed me how wide crowd shots can capture the energy of a moment, not just the people in it. That opened my eyes to storytelling through photography, not just taking nice pictures. She also reminded me to get clean portraits of each artist and to bring more variety into my shots, which is something I know I’ll carry forward. Hearing her say she really loved some of my photos gave me a lot of confidence. With Jae, I learned a whole lot about the technical side. He broke down focus points and anticipation, which helped me understand how to catch the right moment instead of just reacting late. We also went deep into how shutter speed and ISO change depending on light. That knowledge gave me way more control, especially in darker or brighter environments where before I’d just hope for the best. Personally, these sessions taught me patience and being more intentional. Photography isn’t just snapping, it’s being present enough to see the moment coming before it happens. Challenges and How I Handled Them One of my biggest challenges was adapting to different environments, especially when the lighting changed. At first I struggled, but with guidance I learned to adjust my settings faster and not panic. Another challenge was self-doubt. Sometimes I’d look at other people’s work and wonder if I was good enough. What helped was opening up to feedback and realizing critique is about growth, not comparison. Collaboration and Mentorship The collaborative vibe at Jamii stood out to me. Seeing other artists work in their own way gave me ideas and inspired me to try new things. The mentorship from Laura and Jae was also huge because they didn’t just tell me what to do they let me figure things out while guiding me in the right direction. That balance made me feel supported but also responsible for my own growth. Insights and Feedback This whole experience showed me the power of community. Having people to guide you, share feedback, and encourage you really speeds up growth. It also made me realize how important it is to be adaptable and bring variety into my art. Overall, I’m walking away with more confidence, sharper skills, and a better sense of direction. I’m grateful for Jamii giving me the chance to learn, grow, and see my photography in a new light. SEE PROJECT SEE ARTIST'S PAGE AKRAM YACOUT: Akram is a Toronto-based photographer rooted in the downtown community. What began as a hobby in 2016 has grown into a true passion, shaping the way he sees and connects with the world. Now part of the Shoot for Peace program, and Jami’s Emerging Artist program Akram is sharpening his craft and stepping into photography on a professional level. He specializes in capturing live events, where his eye for detail and timing brings out authentic emotion and energy. Through his lens, Akram creates space for reflection inviting viewers to pause, feel, and recognize the beauty and meaning in ordinary life. FUNDERS:

Jamii is a charitable arts organization, whose intent is to enhance social cohesion in The Esplanade's David Crombie Park in Toronto. An Arts Organization based in The Esplanade Community 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! YEAR IN REVIEW - 2025 Check out Jamii's 2025 Highlights CHECK OUT TALK & SCREENING FROM PIKANGIKUM Tue, January 27 - 7pm to 9pm GET YOUR TICKETS JAMII'S BINGO NIGHT FRENCH EDITION! Play hard, fun'draise harder! GET YOUR TICKETS SEASON LAUNCH 2026 Fri, January 30 - 7pm to 9pm GET YOUR TICKETS GIRLS' MOVIE NIGHT FOR 6 TO 11-YEAR-OLDS "In My Dreams" Sat, January 24 - 6pm to 8pm GET YOUR TICKETS BEAUYOUTIFUL - SIX-WEEK CONFIDENCE PROGRAM For girls and non-binary youths between the ages of 8 to 12 REGISTER NOW SEWING STUDIO SERIES For Beginners Sun, January 25 - 10am to 3:30pm GET YOUR TICKETS PASI - COMMUNITY PROJECT Photo Exhibition Marking the 2026 World Football Tournament APPLY NOW 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? 4 days to the event Girls' Movie Night (For 6 to 11-year-olds) Jan 24, 2026, 6:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada We’ll be watching In Your Dreams with plenty of pizza and popcorn to share. It’s a free, easygoing evening where girls can spend time together in a warm and friendly space. If you know a young girl who’d enjoy it, we’d love for her to come by! REGISTER NOW 5 days to the event Sewing Studio Series: For Beginners Jan 25, 2026, 10:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Learn beginner sewing skills with designer Diséiye and make your own denim tote bag from recycled jeans. No experience needed, just bring your lunch and enthusiasm. REGISTER NOW 7 days to the event Talk & Screening of Portraits from Pikangikum Jan 27, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada the premiere of three new video portraits by Ana Higuera Figo, filmed in October 2025, followed by a conversation with Danielle Kwan-Lafond, hosted by Isorine Marc. REGISTER NOW 10 days to the event Season Launch 2026 Jan 30, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Join us at The Jamii Hub to officially launch Jamii’s 15th Anniversary year with an evening of live music, dance, stories, and food! REGISTER NOW Load More 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 Arts workshops at The Jamii Hub for three weeks every month, daily at 7pm during the week. 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

EMERGING ARTISTS Jamii's RBC Emerging Artist Program SHILPA SHAH, VISUAL ARTS LEARNING EXPERIENCE WITH JAMII From mid-2024 into early 2025, artist Shilpa Shah took part in an enriching mentorship through Jamii, supported by the RBC Emerging Artist Program. Guided by lead mentor Isorine Marc, and with additional support from social media strategist Iris Unlu and peer artists Alejandra Higuera, Laura Dittmann and Sabrine S Hakam, Shilpa’s experience was rooted in collaboration, community, and creative empowerment. “This mentorship program helped me establish foundational steps to build an art career upon. My time with Isorine gave me invaluable skills around planning artistic goals and cultivating my artistic voice with greater clarity.” - Shilpa The mentorship began with the foundational work of defining Shilpa’s artistic mission and vision. With Isorine’s guidance, Shilpa developed a brand identity and the name for her creative business, Huereign . Together, they crafted her artist statement and carved out intentional time for Shilpa to focus on her body of work. This first stage laid the groundwork for what would become a broader and more public-facing artistic journey. Over the following months, Shilpa launched her own portfolio website and began developing a thoughtful social media strategy to build her online presence. With mentorship from Iris Unlu, she learned to navigate digital platforms with confidence—overcoming initial hesitations and discovering creative ways to share her art with the world. Shilpa describes this phase as transformative, crediting Iris for helping her feel empowered and inspired to use online spaces meaningfully. In parallel with her digital growth, Shilpa also participated in a professional photoshoot with photographer Sabrine S Hakam and was the focus of a video portrait by Laura Dittmann. The video beautifully captures Shilpa’s creative intent and process, offering audiences an intimate look at the heart behind her work. Community engagement became another powerful pillar of this mentorship. Through Jamii’s “Belonging” program for older adults, Shilpa facilitated two workshop series - one centered on watercolor landscapes and another exploring color theory through mandala-making. These workshops not only allowed her to refine her teaching and facilitation skills but also offered a meaningful way to integrate her background in mental health with her evolving artistic voice. Storytelling, emotional expression, and a sense of connection were all woven into her approach. Throughout the mentorship, Shilpa also engaged in valuable conversations with fellow artists. A walk-and-talk with artist Alejandra Higuera offered her insights into the realities of balancing motherhood and a creative practice, especially as a newcomer to Canada. The exchange reminded Shilpa of the importance of community, self-compassion, and honoring one’s drive to create even amidst life’s transitions. This period of growth revealed not only a deepening of Shilpa’s artistic identity but also her expanding role as an artist-educator and community builder. The support she received helped her refine her vision, strengthen her public presence, and begin actively shaping a career rooted in creativity, connection, and care. SEE PROJECT SEE ARTIST'S PAGE SHILPA SHAH: Shilpa Shah is a visual artist and former psychiatric-mental health nurse practitioner whose work is deeply rooted in themes of mental wellness, emotional landscapes, and spiritual creativity. She chose the name Huereign to honour the sovereignty of God’s colours and the sacred unfolding of creativity through her art. Shilpa’s love for drawing and painting began in childhood and remained a quiet constant alongside her professional journey in mental health. Her lived experiences, both personal and clinical, have given her an intimate understanding of the invisible battles many face, and this lens now shapes the heart of her artistic practice. Returning to life as a full-time artist, she continues to explore the intersections of inner healing and expressive colour. Working primarily with watercolor crayons, coloured pencils, pigment pens, and even Crayola markers, Shilpa brings vibrant, layered compositions to life. Her pieces often explore the themes of abundance, home, belonging, emotions, and possibility. Through rich colour palettes and detailed imagery, she invites viewers into visual conversations that evoke a sense of hope, reflection, and connection. Shilpa holds a Bachelor of Arts in Studio Art from the University of California at Irvine and a Master of Science in Nursing from Columbia University. During her undergraduate studies, she was selected for an honors studio and received the Steven Criqui Memorial Scholarship Award. Her artwork has been featured in exhibitions across California and New York, including solo and award-winning shows at UC Irvine, El Camino College, the Healdsburg Center for the Arts, and the Augustus C. Long Health Sciences Library, where she received Best in Show. Currently based in Toronto, Shilpa is a 2024-2025 participant in Jamii’s RBC Emerging Artist Program. FUNDERS:

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

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

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

EMERGING ARTISTS Jamii's RBC Emerging Artist Program AMBERLEE KING, VISUAL ARTS LEARNING EXPERIENCE WITH JAMII In June 2024, Jamii, with the support of the RBC Emerging Artist program, proudly welcomed Amberlee King to Toronto for a week-long residency on The Esplanade. Amberlee, an exceptional painter from the Pikangikum community in Northern Ontario, first connected with us in 2023 during a video portrait project, thanks to the insight of dedicated art teacher Vanessa Hazel, who recognized Amberlee’s remarkable talent. During her residency, Amberlee was mentored by talented local artists, including Mariana Hernandez, Tugce Alemdar, Kseniya Tsoy, Ana Higuera, and Sabrine S. Hakam. The experience offered meaningful artistic exchanges and fostered personal connections: “Amberlee and I explored gel plate printing and image transfer techniques together. It was refreshing to create in a relaxed setting and get to know each other. Amberlee’s talent, humility, and tenderness shone through her art and presence. It was truly a special moment of connection.” – Ana Higuera. “I appreciated connecting with Amberlee as an artist and a mother. Hearing her thoughts on her artistic journey and learning about her community was inspiring. These interactions enrich us by facilitating cultural and creative exchanges that transcend location and language.” – Kseniya Tsoy. “Meeting Amberlee was transformative. As an Alevi woman artist from Turkey who has experienced state oppression, I found common ground with Amberlee through discussions on loss, grief, generational trauma, and the healing power of art. By the end of our session, we were more than collaborators—we were friends. It was a therapeutic and empowering experience, and I hope to work with her again.” – Tugce Alemdar. Amberlee’s residency also featured public engagements, including showcasing her work at Jamii’s National Indigenous Day celebration and Canada Multiculturalism Day. Her art resonated with the community, leading to the sale of several pieces and memorable interactions with notable figures such as MPPs Chris Glover and Krystin Wong-Tam. Amberlee’s visit was a deeply enriching experience, not only for her but for everyone she touched during her time in Toronto. We are excited to continue this creative journey with Amberlee and the Pikangikum community. SEE PROJECT SEE ARTIST'S PAGE AMBERLEE KING: Amberlee King is a rising visual artist from Pikangikum First Nation in Northern Ontario. A graduate of Eenchokay Birchstick School, Amberlee creates vibrant landscapes and portraits that celebrate the beauty of her community and people while reflecting on themes of healing and loss. Through her art, she finds solace and fosters connection, using painting as a powerful tool for expression and unity. Her work was recently showcased at The Esplanade in Toronto in collaboration with Jamii in June 2024, marking an important milestone in her artistic journey. FUNDERS:

EMERGING ARTISTS Jamii's RBC Emerging Artist Program SABRINE S. HAKAM, PHOTOGRAPHY & CURATION LEARNING EXPERIENCE WITH JAMII Since the start of 2023, I have successfully exhibited two portrait series with Jamii, one of which was created directly through my involvement with Jamii. The first exhibit (Power in Portraits) in January was an opportunity for me to introduce myself to the community ahead of the self-portrait workshop that I hosted from Feb-May 2023. The self-portrait workshops culminated in an exposition titled Calyx that was created by community participants with my artistic guidance. Over the summer, I also had the experience of mentoring a young Indigenous photographer, Morningstar Quill, who was working with Jamii at the same time. This experience was an important and critical interaction for me to have as a newcomer to Canada in order to engage with someone with a similar passion from a radically different community. Together, we brainstormed ideas, techniques and created a portrait series together. This year, I also got the chance to experience being the subject of a video interview which was a first for me. Through this experience, I had the chance to rehearse my introduction as an artist, which is a necessary skill to master in order to connect to an audience. In late summer/early fall of 2023, I launched an exhibit/talk series centered on the uniqueness and importance of cloths, fabrics and prints across different cultures through displays and community-engaged talks. Recently, I completed a talk series titled ‘The Jungle Book: A Postcolonial Analysis’, which explored the ways in which Rudyard Kipling's classic novel has been read through a postcolonial lens through a series of discussions and viewings of the many adaptations of The Jungle Book. Jamii also offered a unique opportunity to play the role of a mentor for another artist: During the summer of 2023, I had the opportunity to act as a mentor for Morningstar Quill, a young photographer from Pikangikum. Together, we discussed our techniques, subjects, and goals as photographers. During her time in Toronto, Morningstar and I worked on developing her ‘brand’ as a photographer by designing a logo for her social media profile and drafting an artistic resume. Despite a busy schedule, we managed to create a portrait series in which Morningstar had the chance to express anything she chose through my method. The results are my favourite collaboration yet as the series, featuring the two of us, is evocative of the profound connection we made with one another through our shared passion for photography and for our respective cultures. On a more personal level, I learned a lot from Morningstar about her community, her culture, and her inspiration. Having never been formally educated on the history of the Indigenous people of Canada, it was truly a learning experience for me to spend time with her and learn about the Canada that she comes from. All of these new activities and experiences have given me the opportunity to develop my own understanding of my role as an artist. It has given me the aptitude and opportunity to network with people from different backgrounds and to gain a better understanding of their artistic journey. Most importantly, it has integrated me into the community through my art and created opportunities for connection that I never had before. SEE PROJECT SEE ARTIST'S PAGE SABRINE S. HAKAM: 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. FUNDERS:

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

EMERGING ARTISTS Jamii's RBC Emerging Artist Program DARWIN PETERS, VISUAL ARTS LEARNING EXPERIENCE WITH JAMII I really enjoyed the people, the scenery and the neighborhood of The Esplanade as I made this community my second home, and now, every day I miss Toronto. The Mashkiki mural was special to everyone around the community as they walked by and witness the creative process or attended the unveiling event. The mural had brought everyone in awe and has been an unforgettable experience for me. SEE PROJECT SEE ARTIST'S PAGE DARWIN PETERS: Darwin Peters is a talented painter and muralist based in Pikangikum First Nation. His paintings are sold around the world and one of his biggest murals, aside the ones he has made at the Eenchokay Birchstick School in Pikangikum, is located in downtown Toronto, on the south wall of the St Lawrence Community Recreation Centre at the heart of The Esplanade for hundreds to enjoy every day. FUNDERS:

2021/03, 04 < Back to Events Allegra CREDITS: WITH THE SUPPORT OF:

This mural was co-created by local youths in partnership with St Lawerence Market Community Projects/ MURALS/ PROTECTOR PROTECTOR St Lawrence Market This mural was co-created by local youths in partnership with St Lawerence Market In July 2024, a team of 16 youth participants, under the guidance of artist Jieun Kim, project coordinator Karen Lam, and artistic director Isorine Marc, collaborated to design, paint, and unveil a vibrant mural at the corner of Jarvis and The Esplanade on St. Lawrence Market, in partnership with the market. This previously overlooked and underutilized area, primarily serving as a garbage zone, was transformed into a lively, inviting space. The mural’s dynamic colors and design have revived this community corner, making it safer, more welcoming, and visually connected to the surrounding neighborhood. Throughout the two-week design and painting phases, the youth participants were deeply engaged, acquiring a range of transferable skills, both artistic and leadership-oriented. These included project planning (including painting coordination schedule and the unveiling event), teamwork, and time management. Additionally, they gained hands-on experience with various artistic techniques, from concept sketching and color theory to mural painting and community engagement. This project not only enriched their practical skills but also empowered them with a sense of ownership and pride in contributing to their community's transformation. A beautiful unveiling ceremony for the mural took place on August 1st, 2024, featuring a ribbon-cutting and remarks from guest speaker MPP Chris Glover. This celebration highlighted the project’s success and brought together community members to appreciate the collaborative effort, symbolizing a shared commitment to revitalizing public spaces. The project strengthened community cohesion through a meaningful partnership between St. Lawrence Market and Jamii, sparking discussions to extend this beautification initiative into 2025. This collaboration has laid a foundation for continued efforts to enrich and enliven shared spaces, with the mural serving as a testament to the positive impact of community-driven art. ARTISTIC STATEMENT BY LEAD ARTIST, JIEUN KIM: This mural at St. Lawrence Market is deeply significant to me, celebrating the diversity and community I cherish. Working with enthusiastic youths to bring this vision to life was incredibly rewarding. Together, we crafted a design that embodies the market's cultural richness and unity. Leading the young students, I encouraged a collaborative environment, celebrating their voices and ideas. Engaging the youth in such projects empowers them, fostering pride in their heritage and teaching teamwork and leadership. I believe this mural will transform the community and youths by showcasing our diversity and inspiring them to recognize their potential. As an artist, this project reaffirmed my commitment to uplifting diverse voices within our community. ARTISTIC STATEMENT BY YOUTHS: Toronto, being the fast-growing city it is, features shiny new buildings rising alongside everlasting historical structures. The St. Lawrence Market specifically is an iconic example of a place that withheld its significance in a city of gentrification. The Market is a microcosm of our city’s diversity and with this mural, titled "Our Protector”, our intent is to celebrate the diversity of this beautiful landmark. Stepping into the Market feels as though a different world of unique decor, food, people, and music has been entered. With fantasy, we tried to recreate the magical universe that is the Market. Every part of the mural was thoughtfully designed with hopes to encompass all that holds meaning and relevance. In our mural, the mermaids represent diversity; they come from different places and cultures, yet they all meet in a place where they share food and company. Each mermaid has a different musical instrument, and together they play music harmoniously, and, like food, it feeds our souls. The stalls represent not only the diversity of food but also shelter for friendship, family, and community. They also represent all the small businesses the market has supported over time. It’s a place of trade, exchange, and shared moments. The flowers in full bloom symbolize joy and life and the river represents the land we share. The dragon, with its strong energy and powers, keeps a protective eye on our community, as well as being a symbol of prosperity and good fortune, bestowing blessings upon all who call this area home. Being treated equally is important to us, and that’s something we wanted to highlight in this mural. Everyone is welcome, regardless of abilities, ethnicity, age, or economic status. It is through socialization and inclusivity that new people can be met, new things can be learnt, and our everlasting journey of growth continues. The Market is far beyond just a stop along the way; It is a place to gather, to remember, and to feel the livelihood of human connection that every being craves. It is truly an honour to add a piece of ourselves onto a location of great history, and we hope what this mural stands for—its vibrancy and uniqueness—will welcome more people to visit the St. Lawrence Market. Credits: Lead Artist: Jieun Kim Artistic Director: Isorine Marc Project Coordinator: Karen Lam Designing and Painting: Aéla Kuria Alina Khurram Chloë Henderson Daniella Kabeya Dario Oluwole Faith Ssempiira (Painting Only) Francesca Ssempiira (Painting Only) Huda Mourad Jacqueline Kabeya Kandi Kabeya Lisa Oluwole Maël Alcouffe Morgan Tortolo Santana Young Sitara Tredille Suhanna Tredille YaYa Chau Zélia Kuria Partners: St Lawrence Market Funders: City of Toronto Main Street Innov Fund FedDev Ontario COMMERCIAL USE FORM

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

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

The Jamii Hub turns into a singing sanctuary on Fridays! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / FRIDAY SINGING / EXPLORING SINGING AND DEEP REFLECTION - OCTOBER 2024 SINGING Friday 7 pm Explore singing in a community sing-along! EXPLORING SINGING AND DEEP REFLECTION October 2024 October 11 - 18 - 25, 2024 Facilitator: Victoria Sawal Multi-disciplinary artist, Victoria Sawal, will be leading three vocal workshops on Fridays in October at The Jamii Hub, focusing on the often ignored aspects of vocal performance, and the relationship between singing and deep reflection. Participants will explore their own authentic singing voices through a series of activities and practices that connect to their body, mind and soul - learning how singing can be an exercise in courage. Experimenting with genres like alt-rock, R&B and OPM (Original Pilipino Music), Victoria will share techniques and knowledge gained from a lifetime of singing and performing, while capturing the pure joy of a family karaoke party. Come celebrate TEKA LANG with Victoria through October with vocal workshops for all levels in a fun and supportive environment. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Mariana Hernandez Victoria Sawal Victoria Marie Sawal is a Filipina-Canadian actor, singer, dancer and multi-faceted creative force. With over a decade of experience in performance, Victoria strongly champions Filipino culture in the arts, and everything else she does. From stage to screen, Victoria brings emotional honesty, an intense dedication to her craft, and a deep understanding of human connection. Photo Credit: Unknown

Beginner and Intermediate Friendly Projects INDOOR ACTIVITIES / WEDNESDAY SEWING / QUILTED PILLOWCASE SET - MARCH 2024 SEWING Sunday 11 am Beginner and Intermediate Friendly Projects March 2025 QUILTED PILLOWCASE SET February 26 - March 5 - 12 - 19, 2025 Artist: Anita Boey In March at "Wednesday Sewing" we are making together a Quilted Pillowcase Set with the leadership of Anita Boey and support from Ghader Bsmar. Quilted Pillowcase Set This March, our theme is "Grounded" , curated by lead artist Sharon Zarita Adhiambo . As Zarita describes, “being grounded  is a shared reflective experience of what we hold onto—within or around us—that sustains our personal journeys, making life’s phases fruitful while refreshing those around us.” To bring this theme to life, sewing facilitator Anita Boey  will guide participants in creating a Quilted Pillowcase Set . Why a pillow? Because it offers comfort, a place to rest, and a sense of home—where we return to, find shelter, and feel grounded. You'll have access to a curated selection of fabric from Jamii, and we will provide poly fill, but you’re welcome to bring your own. Each pillow insert and quilted pillowcase  will require 1.5 yards of fabric  plus poly fill . Throughout the workshop, sewing workshop assistant Ghader Bsmar will support you in mastering sewing machine basics while working on this engaging and meaningful project. Join us in a warm and encouraging space where creativity, skill-building, and connection thrive. By the end of the series, you'll leave not only with a beautiful Quilted Pillowcase Set but also with newfound sewing skills and community! Workshop plan: February 26  – Introduction to Grounded  and the inspiration behind the Quilted Pillowcase Set. Participants will choose fabric, transfer pattern pieces, and cut fabric. March 5  – Sew the pillow insert and enjoy stuffing it with poly fill. March 12  – Sew the quilted pillowcase top. March 19  – Assemble and finish the pillowcase. Let’s stitch together and create something both meaningful and practical. See you on Wednesday evenings! Sewing participants are highly encouraged to attend “Saturday Mingling” event at Jamii, to show off their mirror bag to the rest of the Jamii community! The capacity for this workshop series is 16 people without a machine, and we can accommodate 4 more people if they bring their own sewing machines. While you are only required to register for the February 26 session, participants are expected to join all four sessions on March 5, 12, and 19 . If you register for the February 26 session, you do not need to register again for the sessions on March 5, 12, and 19. New registrations will not be accepted throughout the month. We expect a high number of registrations, so please let us know immediately via email at info@jamii.ca before Monday, February 24 at 12 PM if you foresee that you will not be able to join all four sessions , so another participant from the waitlist can take your spot. We apologize if the workshop is filled before you register. REGISTRATIONS CLOSED Photos by Ghader Bsmar, Anita Boey Anita Boey Business Professor by day, sewist by night. I am a passionate sewist with a deep interest for sustainability and creativity. As an advocate for reducing waste and embracing eco-friendly practices, I utilize rescued materials in my sewing projects. I hope that my sewing serves as a powerful reminder of the beauty that can emerge from diverted waste, while inspiring others to join me in the quest for a more sustainable world, one stitch at a time. Instagram Photo Credit: Unknown

INDOOR ACTIVITIES / SPECIAL EVENTS / PREMIERE OF VIDEO PORTRAITS FROM PIKANGIKUM FIRST NATION SPECIAL EVENTS Fundraising Experiencing Pikangikum through Art and Storytelling PREMIERE OF VIDEO PORTRAITS FROM PIKANGIKUM December 3, 2024 - 7pm Since 2018, Jamii has been honoured to foster a beautiful connection with Pikangikum First Nation in Northern Ontario. A three-flight journey takes us to this remote community, and every visit deepens the bond we share. Over the past three trips, we’ve created video portraits celebrating local leaders, artists, and Elders from Pikangikum. On December 3rd, we were thrilled to premiere these videos at a packed house at The Jamii Hub! In between each short video screening, we enjoyed engaging conversations led by videographers Gillian Mapp, Eray Guler, and Isorine Marc, offering insights into the stories and creative processes behind each film. A special thanks to Asmita Pal, a resident of The Esplanade, whose connection between our community and Pikangikum made this journey possible. Another special thanks to the Jamii team who were in Toronto and ensured this project ran smoothly: Iris Unlu for video support and May Chook for event management! To honour the moment, we shared delicious Indigenous food from Tea and Bannock in Toronto. This ongoing artistic exchange is made possible through the support of the Ontario Arts Council @ontarioartscouncil and the Canada Council for the Arts @canada.council. We look forward to continuing this meaningful partnership in 2025 and beyond. Our screening raised $1,200, which will directly support flights for our next visit. OOPS, THIS EVENT IS OVER Photos by Eray Guler, Isorine Marc Eray Guler Eray Güler is a visual storyteller whose journey began in Turkiye, where two of his photography works were published by BBC Turkiye. After moving to Canada in 2014, he expanded his expertise through digital marketing courses at George Brown College and the University of Toronto. Eray founded Recro Digital Marketing, which continues to thrive in Canada’s competitive marketing field. His YouTube channel, the largest Turkish-Canadian channel, connects Turkiye and Canada, offering guidance to immigrants and promoting cross-cultural understanding. With over 120,000 subscribers and 17 million views, Eray is dedicated to producing content that resonates, inspires, and fosters meaningful connections. Gillian Mapp From a young age, Gillian Mapp began capturing images long before ever picking up a camera. Using her eyes, she made memories permanent in her mind's eye. Gillian understood the importance of documenting her story, knowing no one else would do it for her. Her mother’s dedication to recording every moment of their childhood instilled a deep appreciation for preserving history. Gillian’s early experiences with film rolls and the anticipation of their development inspired her to use photography to change how people see and remember the world. Her work highlights the beauty in everyday moments and brings untold stories to the forefront. Isorine Marc Isorine obtained her Masters Degree in Performing Arts Management in France and has acquired international work experience in arts organizations such as The Paris Conservatoire (France), L’École des Sables (Toubab Dialaw, Senegal), Le Centre National Chorégraphique Mathilde Monnier (France), Ausdance Queensland (Brisbane, Australia), and fFIDA-TIDF 06 (Toronto). Isorine was CORPUS' Artistic Producer from 2006 to 2018 and founded Jamii in 2011. The Esplanade neighbourhood is Isorine's home since 2006 and she is a passionate advocate for her community.

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

Beginner and Intermediate Friendly Projects INDOOR ACTIVITIES / WEDNESDAY SEWING / BUCKET HAT AND BANDANA - OCTOBER 2024 SEWING Wednesday 7 pm Beginner and Intermediate Friendly Projects October 2024 BUCKET HAT AND BANDANA Oct 2 - 9 - 16 - 23, 2024 Artist: Anita Boey Create Your Own Customized Bucket Hat and Bandana! Join us in a new series of sewing workshops this October! Our theme for this month is “JUST WAIT” or “TEKA LANG”, which is Lead Artist, Patrick D.B.’s way of encouraging participants and audiences to take a second, to contemplate, to reflect, to meditate, to slow down and learn more about Filipino arts. Sewing Facilitator, Anita Boey, has designed a circular Bucket Hat with Bandana for this theme. The cyclical nature of waiting—rather than following a linear path—is embodied in the process of making this bucket hat. There are no straight lines in its construction; instead, circular stitches hold the hat together, serving as a reminder to move slowly through our daily activities. In a world that pushes us to take the fastest and most direct route, it’s in the moments of slowness and quiet reflection that we truly appreciate the beauty around us. The process of crafting this bucket hat compels us to slow down, with each stitch following a curved line. Additionally, the inclusion of a bandana around the neck pays homage to Patrick’s Filipino heritage and fashion style. Join in to create your own customized Bucket Hat and Bandana. Jamii will provide a selection of fabric for you to choose from, and we also welcome you to bring fabric that means something special to you. For this sewing project, you’ll need two types of fabric: a thicker fabric for the outer layer of the hat, and a lining fabric for the inside of the hat and bandana. You’ll need about 1 meter of each fabric. For novice sewers, Ghader, our dedicated Sewing Workshop Assistant, will guide you with the fundamental skills of operating a sewing machine while delving into a simple yet captivating bandana. SHOWCASE YOUR WORK Sewing participants are highly encouraged to attend the “Saturday Mingling” event at Jamii on October 26th. This will be an opportunity to showcase your Bucket Hat and Bandana to the rest of the Jamii community. Let’s stitch our Wednesdays away in a warm and encouraging atmosphere. By the end of this workshop series, you’ll not only have a garment to treasure but also the pride of mastering new sewing skills! Workshop Schedule 1) Wednesday October 2nd – Introduction to the theme of “JUST WAIT”, and how it inspired the design of this Bucket Hat and Bandana. Participants will choose their fabric, transfer the pattern pieces onto their fabric and cut their fabric. 2) Wednesday October 9th – Sew the outer layer and lining of the bucket hat. 3) Wednesday October 16th – Sew the bucket hat together. 4) Wednesday October 23rd – Sew the bandana and adding finishing touches to the hat, and end with a Fashion Show! REGISTRATIONS CLOSED Photos by Isorine Marc, Anita Boey Anita Boey Business Professor by day, sewist by night. I am a passionate sewist with a deep interest for sustainability and creativity. As an advocate for reducing waste and embracing eco-friendly practices, I utilize rescued materials in my sewing projects. I hope that my sewing serves as a powerful reminder of the beauty that can emerge from diverted waste, while inspiring others to join me in the quest for a more sustainable world, one stitch at a time. Instagram Photo Credit: Unknown

INDOOR ACTIVITIES / LAINI / BECOMING CLUB LAINI Youth Wednesday & Thursday After School A Jamii initiative to encourage girls and young women to explore art and leadership! BECOMING CLUB June & July 2021 - Ages: 11-13 yrs old Led by Ayelen Liberona A Rite of Passage, Connection & Collective Creation. "Becoming Garden" was a journey through art, music and imagination to explore our stories and why we tell them. A unique opportunity to dream with and learn from professional artists, earth workers, story weavers and mystery makers. Participants were invited to play, dig in, grow wings and dance with their shadow. Becoming Club participants were also part of the creation and performance of the "Becoming Garden: Cultivating Gratitude; Composting Grief; Harvesting the Mystery" - a performance that premiered on The Esplanade on July 15-17, 2021. 10 participants - 43 hours of workshops Ayelen Liberona is a multifaceted dancer, filmmaker, culture maker and community weaver. She is the co-founder of The Wandering Eye, where she creates award winning films and site-specific experiences as powerful tools for transformation and social justice. She is also the co-founder/director of Becoming Praxis, an organization committed to developing Open Source Ritual Architectures and Pedagogies that re-story our relationship to land and to each other. Photo Credit: Unknown

The Jamii Hub turns into a movie and performance sanctuary on Wednesdays! In May, join us to watch "At Heart" docu-film by Jamii and "No Return" dance performance by Michael Mortley. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / WEDNESDAY WATCHING / ROOTS - MAY 2024 WATCHING Wednesday 7 pm Live performances, films and documentaries Roots May 2024 May 8, 15, 22, 2024 Lead: Isorine Marc, Michael Mortley, Cailleah Scott-Grimes MAY 8 Led by Isorine Marc Screening: "At Heart, Citizens of The Esplanade" For this beautiful evening, diving into the roots of our community through the lens of local residents. "At Heart, Citizens of The Esplanade" was created in 2018, and involved in its creation process more than 150 Esplanadians of all ages (people who live, work, study and play in The Esplanade neighbourhood – downtown Toronto). Together, they embarked, with a team of artists, on a co-creative process to produce this moving participatory community-engaged docu-film. "At Heart, Citizens of The Esplanade" shines a light on our neighbourhood, the St Lawrence, and invites people to reflect on the values that drive community development and city planning. Join us for a screening followed by a discussion with Jamii's Alchemist, Isorine Marc. Docu-film duration: 28min Docu-film awards: Best Editing, short documentary film category - Five Continents International Film Festival (Venezuela) - 2019. Best Cinematography, short documentary film category - Five Continents International Film Festival (Venezuela) - 2019. Award of Merit - IndieFest Film Awards (USA)2019 OFFICIAL SELECTION. Alternative Film Festival (Canada)Docs Without Borders Film Festival (USA). Five Continents International Film Festival (Venezuela). IndieFEST Film Awards (USA). Diversity Feedback Film Festival (Canada). Canadian Diversity Film Festival (Canada). Docu-film duration: 28min Docu-film awards: Best Editing, short documentary film category - Five Continents International Film Festival (Venezuela) - 2019. Best Cinematography, short documentary film category - Five Continents International Film Festival (Venezuela) - 2019. Award of Merit - IndieFest Film Awards (USA)2019 OFFICIAL SELECTION. Alternative Film Festival (Canada)Docs Without Borders Film Festival (USA). Five Continents International Film Festival (Venezuela). IndieFEST Film Awards (USA). Diversity Feedback Film Festival (Canada). Canadian Diversity Film Festival (Canada). MAY 15 Led by Michael Mortley Dance performance: "No return" On May 15th, we have a very special "Wednesday Watching" evening together! Stepping away from the traditional screening night, this Wednesday, we have a dance performance and discussion! Jamii is excited to present "No Return", a performance created and performed by dance artist Michael Mortley, incorporating elements of spoken word and poetry. "No Return" is an interpretation of return: a return to self, a return to the place our body called home, and not just where the heart is. A place that holds no judgment for who you are and what you chose to be. No Return... no way back, just forward, through all adversity forward. The piece was first premiered at Dusk Dances in 2022, and we are excited to bring it to the Jamii community! Come ready to sit back, watch, and enjoy an artist talk after the performance. MAY 22 Led by Cailleah Scott-Grimes Dance performance: "Between Us" (2020, 17 min, Japanese with English subtitles) Join us this Wednesday to watch "Between Us", a 17-minute film written and directed by Cailleah Scott-Grimes in 2020. Screened in Japanese with English subtitles, the film is an intimate portrait of a queer-trans couple in rural Japan, who must grapple with their divergent notions of belonging. The story is inspired by Cailleah's experiences of living in the region where the film takes place. This piece is an invitation to engage with ways of being that cannot simply be placed on either side of a divide. Cailleah will lead an introduction and post-screening discussion. REGISTER NOW Photos by Isorine Marc, Hadeal Karrar Takako Segawa is a contemporary dancer, choreographer, theatre performer, and director of Japanese dance arts. Born in Japan, Takako trained in traditional arts and contemporary Japanese movement styles, before graduating from the London Contemporary Dance School. Takako’s 25-year career includes performances throughout Europe, Asia, and North America. She was nominated outstanding female for the Dora Award in 2015, and has been honoured by two All Japan Kobe Dance Festival awards, and by the Stuttgart SoloTanz festival. Recently she performed in "Universal Child Care" at the Canadian Stage in Toronto. Takako also performs worldwide with the Corpus theatre group and is currently directing the multimedia piece “Echoes: Vibrations from Japan to Canada,” premiering in Ottawa in November 2024. Instagram Photo Credit: Laura Dittman

The Jamii Hub turns into a niche artistic sanctuary once a month on Tuesdays! In June, join us to step into the world of braid hair and sweetgrass with our workshop led by Shelly Ann Mc Leod. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / TUESDAY LEARNING / NICHE ARTISTIC PRACTICES / BRAID HAIR AND SWEETGRASS - JUNE 2024 LEARNING Tuesday 7 pm Niche Artistic Practices Braid Hair and Sweetgrass June 2024 June 4, 2024 Workshop Lead: Shelly Ann Mc Leod Here comes a unique opportunity to learn how to braid hair and sweetgrass! Join us on Tuesday, June 4th at 7pm at The Jamii Hub to learn not only how to braid hair and sweetgrass, but also the cultural significance of this practice in Trinidad and Tobago and other cultures, including Indigenous peoples in Canada. Artist Shelly Ann Mc Leod, born in Trinidad and Tobago, grew up learning how to braid hair and sweetgrass from a young age. Now a professional dancer and teacher, Shelly Ann finds in braiding spirituality, esthetics and practicality. Beautifully relating to this month's theme of Connectedness by our lead artist Nickeshia Garrick, this workshop guided by Shelly Ann explores the similarities between a practice from the Caribbean and Indigenous peoples here. Heads-up: We will be on a break in July and August. Jamii's indoor activities & workshop series will commence in September 2024. REGISTER NOW! Photos by Isorine Marc, Shelly Ann Shelly Ann Mc Leod 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. Instagram Photo Credit: Unknown

COMMUNITY PROJECTS / PARTNERSHIPS / TECH SUPPORT SESSION TECH SUPPORT SESSION Tech Support for Older Adults PARTNERSHIP WITH REPRISK October 2025 Session Led by RepRisk Volunteers On October 29th, our Belonging group joined a tech session with RepRisk , kindly connected to us by our landlord the Berkeley Castle. Older adults participating brought their phones, laptops, and tablets for hands-on support - troubleshooting issues, updating devices, and learning new app skills. All left with big smiles, feeling confident and satisfied with the one-on-one support they received, boosting their tech skills and independence. RepRisk is a global leader in ESG and business conduct risk research. Since 2006, they have combined AI with expert analysis to turn vast amounts of data into actionable insights, helping organizations identify and manage risks that could affect reputation, compliance, and finances. Their RepRisk Platform covers over 120,000 companies and 30,000 projects worldwide, making it the largest database of its kind. We are very grateful for such partnership and seeing local businesses jumping in to support their direct community! Photos by Iris Unlu Photo by Iris Unlu

d6c0229c-7b8a-4ea8-948f-4634639d38fb < Back Wawa and Michipicoten Firts Nation Wawa & Michipicoten First Nation SEPT 2020 3rd VISIT In the Fall of 2019, Jamii visited Wawa and invited locals to create visual portraits of fellow neighbours, friends or family member. Altogether, 21 beautiful portraits were created. Following the creation of this series of portraits, Jamii came back to Wawa in September 2020 to exhibit this collection of portraits, along with portraits created in Toronto, Wolfe Island and Pikangikum. Along with this unique exhibit, Jamii invited local artists to bring a selection of these portraits to life through music, dance, storytelling, and drumming; A whirlwind of stories and a unique way to share and celebrate each other stories. ARTISTS: Damian Binda, Isabella Imperatori, Joanne Poisson, Sheila Rodger, Brian Lachine, Mirinda Patterson and Samatha Stewart. Host: Nadine Kwissiwa. Tech: Marty Rodger. Ambassador: Darren Marshall. In partnership with the Municipality of Wawa and Wawa Colab and supported by Ontario Arts Council and Canada Council for the Arts. Photos: Kylie Marie (Inspired Moments Photography) Wawa & MIchipicoten First Nation NOV 9-18 2019 2nd VISIT 2019 JOURNAL: It has been quite an amazing week in Wawa & Michipicoten First Nation. We have created 22 portraits of people from the community made by fellow community members, and in the creative process, more than 50 people were involved. On November 16th, about 60 people joined us at the LakeView Hotel to celebrate this success. (see photos below by Kristen Sabourin). It is humbling to witness people coming through and opening up to each other, especially when they haven't previously met. To say the least, this has been an amazing and moving journey.We are grateful for the support of many partners who greatly contributed in bringing this project to life: Canada Council for the Arts Ontario Arts Council Toronto Arts Council Superior Children Centre Wawa EarlyON Child & Family Centre Wawa Goose Seniors Club Michipicoten High School Michipicoten First Nation CSC Nouvelon A special thank you to all those who participated in this project, included but not limited to: Marilyn Perkovich-Farand, Pauline Dawson, Robin Marshall Davidson, Thelma Joyce Smitham, Carol, Matt Larrett, Chief Patricia Tangie, Lucille Vachon-Case, River Lise Berry, Brian Outinen, Doris Jacques, Jacob Larrett, Melina DeSaulnier, Elma Spooner, Hamza Khan, Kayley East, and Isabella Impératori. Last but not least, thank you to amazing artists Kara Spencer and Dan Bergeron; our community ambassador Darren Marshall, Jamii's President Georgia Reynolds, and the amazing amazing Robin Marshall Davidson. Isorine Marc and the Jamii team are grateful. Thank you Wawa, Ontario. Michipicoten First Nation & Wawa Sept 21st to 25th 2018 1st VISIT 2018 JOURNAL (Oct 1st 2018): Our visit to Michipicoten First Nation and Wawa was yet another soul-enriching journey. On our way to the two communities, we visited the Twilight Resort, Chippewa Falls, Old Women Bay. We then discovered Mr Vallee Park and Anderson Lake, Hawk Junction, Michipicoten High School, Lions Park, Superior Childcare Centre, the local North of 17 and Embassy restaurants (both meeting places in the community), the Lady Dunn Health Centre, Michipicoten Memorial Community Centre, Michipicoten First Nation Community Centre, Sandy Beach and much more. We were blessed to meet Brian Outinen who shared with us his knowledge of pictographs and local legends. Isabeau Allard from the township of Wawa shared with us some insight on the township efforts to bring people together through the new strategic plans. Nancy Auclair told us about Indigenous youth and the importance of finding one’s sense of identity. Nathalie Scully gave us a tour of her camp and told us about Hawk Junction history that was once thriving with the passenger trains, which no longer runs thus reinforcing isolation. Carolle Beaulieu-Pitre showed us her community project of organic farming at the Flying Geese Farm. We also met as a larger group composed of Paula Valois, Amanda Gautier, Brian Lachine, George Brousseau, Jessie Labonte, Maury O’Neil, and Beverly Boyd to discuss how each local organizations are contributing to the overall health of both communities and are linked together, what makes us proud of both Michipicoten First Nation and Wawa, and what are some of the untold & silenced stories of these two communities. Special thank you to Robin Marshall for welcoming us to her community. Previous Next

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

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

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.

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Lauren Barnett Singer/songwriter/saxophonist website Lauren Barnett is a multifaceted artist - singer, songwriter, saxophonist, composer and educator - whose music resonates with the rich tapestry of her Jamaican- Canadian heritage and the vibrant pulse of Toronto’s diverse soundscape. In her decade-long musical journey, Lauren has collaborated with diverse artists and community arts organizations across Toronto. She has had the opportunity to work with Fabcollab on their MAUSIQI community jam, Kuné Global Orchestra, Jamii Esplanade Arts, Tara Moneka’s Dijlah, The Human Rights and Al Qahwa. Lauren’s creativity extends to various projects showcasing her songwriting, compositional skills and community outreach. These include; lyrical composition for Scarborough Philharmonic and Ventenas (2023), Pandaland Short Film score (2021), Catchfiyah’s Price to Pay album (2021), and the host and creator of Lauren Barnett’s Drawing Free For All (community music and drawing nights at The Tranzac 2017 – 2020). << BACK TO ARTISTS

2021 Community Projects / Film Projects / The Wedding 2021 A celebration of multiculturalism, an invitation for self-reflection on how wedding ceremonies can trigger different emotions, and an exploration of the emotional roller coaster of wedded life. Short film series The Wedding - PART I Co-created by: Alejandra Higuera, Aline Morales , Ana Maria Higuera, Carmen Romero, Indrit Kasapi , Isorine Marc, Jim Adams , Jonelle Sills, Kaitlin Torrance , Leen لين , Ryan Graham Hinds, Yvonne NG Peck Wan Filmed and Edited by: Alejandra Higuera Ana Maria Higuera Sound by: Amye Sagar Performed by: (alphabetical order) Aela Kuria - Aline Morales - Amye Sagar - Carmen Romero - Danilo Caribé - Erina Aurora-Tran - Indrit Kasapi - Jim Adams - Jonelle Sills - Juanita Garces Restrepo - Kaitlin Torrance - Karen Lam - Leen Hamo - Mira Ghabiel - Omer Yukseker - Pierre Gravel - Raecheal Goddard - Raquel Romero - Ruthmarie Williams - Ryan Graham Hinds - Susan Cuthbert - Yvonne NG Peck Wan - Zelia Kuria Music and Vocals by: Aline Morales, Jim Adams, Jonelle Sills, Leen Hamo (June 2021) The Wedding - PART II Co-created by: Alejandra Higuera, Aline Morales , Ana Maria Higuera, Indrit Kasapi , Isorine Marc, Jim Adams , Jonelle Sills, Leen لين , Lua Shayenne, Ryan Graham Hinds, Yvonne NG Peck Wan Filmed and Edited by: Alejandra Higuera, Ana Maria Higuera Sound by: A mye Sagar, Isorine Marc, Darwa Naim Sound design and audio mix by: Matthew Maaskant Performed by: (alphabetical order) Aela Kuria - Aline Morales - Chloe Henderson - Cynthia Cella Ruso - Erina Aurora-Tran - Indrit Kasapi - Isorine Marc - Iris Unlu - Jennifer Ramsay - Jim Adams - John Abou Chacra - Jonelle Sills - Karen Lam - Leen Hamo - Lua Shayenne - Nicole Ramsay - Omer Yukseker - Ryan Graham Hinds - Khatra Haji - Yvonne NG Peck Wan - Zelia Kuria Music and Vocals by: Aline Morales, Jim Adams, John Abou Chacra, Jonelle Sills, Leen Hamo (July 2021) The Wedding - PART III Co-created by : Alejandra Higuera , Aline Morales, Ana Maria Higuera, Carmen Romero, Edz Gyamfi, Gina Tantalo, Isorine Marc, Jonelle Sills, Lauren Barnett, Katy Moonbean, Maysam Ghani, Paulina Anthony O’Kieffe, Rachana Joshi, Tangi Lion, Veronica Lee, Yvonne Ng Filmed and Edited by: Alejandra Higuera and Ana Maria Higuera Sound by: Dawar Naeem Sound design and audio mix by: Matthew Maaskant Lighting design: Dawar Naeem, Isorine Marc, Matthew Maaskant Performed by: (alphabetical order) Aela Kuria, Aline Morales ,Angel Narick, Carmen Romero, Edz Gyamfi, Eman Hillawi, Erina Aurora-Tran, Gina Tantalo, Jim Adams, Jonelle Sills, Juanita Garces Restrepo, Karen Lam, Katy Moonbean, Lauren Barnett, Maysam Ghani, Mikhael Bornstein, Paulina Anthony O’Kieffe, Rachana Joshi, Raquel Romero, Ruthmarie Williams, Tangi Lion, Tim Wong-Ward, Veronica Lee, Yvonne Ng, Zelia Kuria, Zhenmei Wong-Ward. Spoken word poetry “Return to Love” by: Maysam Ghani, Paulina Anthony O’Kieffe Music and Vocals by: Aline Morales, Carmen Romero, Gina Tantalo, Katy Moonbean, Jonelle Sills, Lauren Barnett, Rachana Joshi, Tangi Lion, Veronica Lee Original songs: Spanish Gitano Oral Tradition interpreted by Gina Tantalo, “Squeeze Your Love” by Katy Moonbean, Original music by Tangi Lion, “Float” by Lauren Barnett Dance choreography: Carmen Romero, Edz Gyamfi, Isorine Marc, Rachana Joshi, Yvonne Ng Aerial Choreography: Eman Hillawi Lumin Puppets: Clay and Paper Theatre Puppet and movement coach: Alexa McDougall Props: Amye Sagar Props Assistants: Afnan Yakot, Ammar Salem, Anhar Salem, Asma’a Salem, Juanita Garces Restrepo, Usama Mohamednur PROJECT DESCRIPTION AND CREDITS "The Wedding" is a three-part project that invited professional artists and members of The Esplanade community to explore what a mixed-culture wedding looks like (PART I), what are the emotional triggers of wedding ceremonies (PART II) and the emotional roller-coaster of wedded life (PART III). Part I was filmed in June, Part II in July and Part III in October - all filmed as a one-shot, at the heart of The Esplanade community - David Crombie Park. With Part I of this wedding you will see, we explore different ceremonial traditions, based on the artists and participants' own cultures. Amongst other traditions, we brought together a Brazilian procession, a Chinese tea ceremony, an Indigenous blanket ceremony, and an Albanian shami burning dance. Even though it is now considered normal to recognize each other’s cultural heritage, do we actually celebrate and acknowledge intercultural mixing, and if so, how? Can we bring our cultures together while retaining our cultural traditions, our sense of identity and uniqueness? "The Wedding" is an invitation to explore these questions, together. Produced and presented by: Jamii Esplanade A PROJECT SUPPORTED AND FUNDED BY: Canada Council for the Arts Canadian Heritage Ontario Arts Council Government of Ontario ShowLoveTo - City of Toronto Canadian Stage St Lawrence Neighbourhood Association Concept and Direction by: Isorine Marc Jamii Team: Isorine Marc, Jasmin Linton, DeeAnn Sagar, Cynthia Cella Ruso Mira Ghabiel. Photos by: Omer Yukseker and Jae Yang jamii.ca -@jamiiesplanade Filmed in The Esplanade neighbourhood - Toronto, Ontario The Wedding 2021

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Yasmine Omar Photographer website Yasmine Omar, based in Toronto, is a photographer and director who tells meaningful stories through her art. Her goal is to inspire by creating emotional connections in the portraits she captures. Yasmine is drawn to genuine moments, aiming to freeze them in time for everlasting impact. Yasmine was one of the 4 artists traveling to Kenya in 2023 with Jamii. << BACK TO ARTISTS

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

9 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / SATURDAY MINGLING / MIRRORS - FEBRUARY 2025 MINGLING Saturday 7 pm Monthly Community Gathering: A night filled with music, dance, and other art forms! MIRRORS February 2025 February 22, 2025 Lead Artist: Jonelle Sills Join us for Saturday Mingling—a delightful evening of live music, art sharing, and delicious food! Hosted by our February Cycle lead artist, Jonelle Sills, the night features live music by the incredible Stacey Asiedu, accompanied by O’Neil Gerald Donald on keys. Stacey’s soulful blend of R&B and Neo-Soul, inspired by legends like Ella Fitzgerald and Jhene Aiko, promises to captivate with her emotive, uplifting vocals. We also have a special guest - Vicky Wang will treat you to a line drawing portrait! Don’t miss this night of performances, surprise dances and tasty finger foods! REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Jae Yang Jonelle Sills Jonelle Sills is one of the most exciting young sopranos of her generation. Named one of CBC Music’s 30 hot classical musicians under 30, Jonelle made her company debut at 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). Her 2023/24 season also saw role debuts with Edmonton Opera as Donna Anna (Don Giovanni), Vancouver Opera as Micaëla (Carmen), Toronto Operetta Theatre as Anna Glawari (The Merry Widow), and, in recital for the Prince Edward County Chamber Festival with the Viano Quartet. Ms. Sills past highlights include being a recital soloist with Ottawa Chamberfest, and her company debut with Toronto’s Against The Grain Theatre in Vivier Kopernikus, which 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), and most recently, performing in An Evening with David Crombie (2024). Stacey Asiedu Stacey Asiedu is an R&B and Neo-Soul singer whose artistry is shaped by influences such as Adele, Ella Fitzgerald, Jhene Aiko, and Cynthia Erivo. With a voice that first captivated hearts at the age of 2, Stacey began writing her own songs by 14. Her roots in church singing and her formal training in vocal jazz at York University have deeply enriched her sound. A career highlight was her live performance at Honey Jam in 2012, where her talent shone brightly. Stacey also enjoys singing at weddings and galas, bringing elegance and emotion to special events, and hopes to do more of this in the near future. Her mission is to create music that fosters connection, joy, and healing, reminding her audience that they are never alone. Through her soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics, she seeks to uplift and inspire listeners worldwide. O’Neil Gerald Donald Take a 2000s urban pop groove and a robust baritone-tenor voice, wrap it in a few synthesizers, dip it all in a booming background vocal arrangement and you have O'Neil Gerald Donald. Although he doesn't identify as a dancer, O'Neil loves producing music that makes people comfortable to do their own little 2-step. He uses catchy melodies to unpack complex truths about faith. O'Neil cites influence from the likes of Timbaland, Darkchild and Kirk Franklin - all distinctly known for their musical intricacy and explosive energy. Outside of his own music, he produces for his wife, MIAMAGINATION, leads the music department at his church and runs Reclaim Your Voice - a vocal coaching business centred on helping singers fortify their mindset and freely share their musical message. Vicky Wang Vicky Wang is an artist specializing in line art portraits. Her art is marked by her signature style of fun and flowing lines that reflect her zest for life, joyful spirit, and love of human connection. Her continuous lines are a deliberate choice, leaving no room for doubt or hesitation. She started her business “A Portrait By Vicky” to spread the joy of her portraits with the people around her. What began as a pandemic project in 2020 has now expanded to drawing portraits of hundreds of people all over the world. She loves engaging with the people she’s drawing, and the surprise delight that arises when they see their portrait for the first time. It is a joy and honour for her to share the uniqueness and beauty she sees in each human face through her art, giving others the opportunity to see themselves in a new light." Photo by Sabrine S. Hakam

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Zaynab Wilson Singer & Musician website Zaynab Wilson is a wayfaring multi-instrumentalist who transmutes stories of growth and progress into songs. Born in Montréal and raised in a Trinidadian steelpan-playing family band, she sculpts an original soundscape combining intrinsic ancestral Afro-Caribbean rhythms and her soulful vocalization of the inward and outward journeys. She continues the tradition of blending music and family- community. << BACK TO ARTISTS

INDOOR ACTIVITIES / SPECIAL EVENTS / SEWING WORKSHOP - BEGINNERS SPECIAL EVENTS Fundraising Sewing Studio Series SEWING WORKSHOP - BEGINNERS July 20 - 9:30am to 4:30pm SEWING STUDIO SERIES - BEGINNERS Presented by Jamii Facilitated by Mariam Ahmad Sunday, July 20 | 9:30am to 4:30pm TIME: Includes a 30-minute lunch break (12:30–1:00 PM). Stay for up to one additional hour afterward to work on your own projects or alterations with assistance from our team. LOCATION: The Jamii Hub – 264 The Esplanade, Toronto ON M5A 4J6 COST: $150 per session This is a fundraising initiative for Jamii. The actual value of the workshop is $75, and the remaining $75 is a charitable donation. Participants will receive a tax receipt for the donation portion. WHAT YOU WILL LEARN: Learn essential sewing terminology, how to operate and thread a sewing machine, and practice foundational stitches like straight stitch, backstitch, flat-felled etc. You will get to practice these stitches and apply these new skills by creating a simple tote bag. As a bonus if time allows, you’ll make a scrunchie - great for practicing circular stitching and working with elastic. No prior experience necessary - just bring your enthusiasm! OOPS, THIS EVENT IS OVER Photos by Ghader Bsmar MARIAM AHMAD Mariam Ahmad learned to sew as a child using hand-pedalled Singer machines alongside her grandmother. Her work blends Eastern heritage and ancestral textile traditions to create romantic silhouettes filled with nostalgia. Mariam is passionate about teaching others and is a strong facilitator: Mariam has led sewing workshops for all levels with Jamii and other organizations in Toronto.

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

This mural was co-created by local youths at the corner of The Esplanade & Berkeley St. Community Projects/ MURALS/ THE AQUATIC GATHERING THE AQUATIC GATHERING The Esplanade & Berkeley St This mural was co-created by local youths at the corner of The Esplanade & Berkeley St. A group of fifteen youth from The Esplanade came together, under the artistic leadership of Kseniya Tsoy to create a marvelous mural on the Hydrobox, at the corner of The Esplanade and Berkeley St. The Hydrobox had been vandalized years ago and was, simply put, an eye sore for the community. The youg women transformed the box into a whimsical underwater world where everyone is welcome. Unveiled in July 2023. ARTISTIC STATEMENT BY LEAD ARTIST, KSENIYA TSOY: This project is a true example of "community-engaged arts" where participating young artists had full ownership of the final creation - from deciding the theme to designing and painting the individual elements. I hope this mural brings smiles to the people of the Esplanade and, as one of the young artists beautifully said, reminds everyone to be proud of being different and know that everyone is welcome here. ARTISTIC STATEMENT BY THE CO-CREATORS OF THE MURAL, WHO ARE YOUNG WOMEN LOCAL TO THE ESPLANADE NEIGHBOURHOOD: This mural is a way for us to share aspects of our community’s history with visitors. For example, just a few hundred years ago, The Esplanade was underwater: Lake Ontario would come all the way to Front Street! This is one of the reasons why we chose to make a design which is an underwater scene. Each creature painted on the wall looks different from one another: for us, it is a way to represent the diversity of our community. Each creature has “something special” and each one is their own person but, together, they form a unique community. The beauty in this is that all these creatures represented on the mural share the same home: just because they are different, they don’t have to be separated: they belong together. To us, it’s a way to bring up the importance of inclusivity. This mural brings the message to younger kids that they can do and be whoever they want to be. For example, you can see a fish riding a bike. For young kids, there is pressure from society to be a certain way. But they can be their own self and be that fish riding his bicycle. We hope this mural brightens the community and brings people together. While before it was mostly graffiti on this wall, now the cartoonish aspect of the mural brings joy when people walk past it and, with all the animals, it engages kids of all ages. Most of us grew up in The Esplanade community and being part of creating this mural was an opportunity for us to leave our mark and to do something that’s meaningful for others, especially the young ones. Some of us are moving out of this neighbourhood, on our way to university. This mural becomes a reminder of our childhood, our community and being an Esplanade kid. These sea animals make our inner child happy. As a group of 15, while we had different outlooks on what this mural should look like, we came together to design and paint it and we believe the end result really is beautiful. Everyone participating was able to add their own touch to the mural. We are proud of the way it looks and we are grateful for this opportunity to express our talents. We were proud to show it to our families and we are proud that everyone walking by can enjoy it. We hope it shines a loving spotlight on our community. CREDITS: Lead Artist: Kseniya Tsoy Supporting Artist: Karen Lam Curator: Isorine Marc Coordination and Community Outreach: Maryam Alireza Participating Youths: Design: Asmaa, Collean, Gennavive , Hafsa, Helena, Kandi, Larissa, Morgan, Nada, Pushpa, Vijaya Painting: Aéla, Alex, Asmaa, Collean, Hafsa, Kandi, Larissa, Morgan, Nada, Nancy, Pushpa, Vijaya, Zélia Initiated and produced by Jamii Esplanade Funded by: The Kiwanis Foundation TD Bank Ready Commitment City of Toronto Main Street Innovation Fund RBC Emerging Artists In partnership with Canadian Stage and Berkeley Castle © Jamii Esplanade COMMERCIAL USE FORM

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

OUTDOOR EVENTS / ALLEGRA - 2021 Allegra Mar - Apr 2021 Date: March 30th to April 8th, 2021 Susie Burpee brought her colourful character 'Allegra Charleston' to the Esplanade for a series of pop-up performances, which surprised students of Market Lane Public School. These short performances took place in the mornings, engaging young audiences on their way to school with (physically distanced) live interactions. The intent of these performances was to touch the hearts of young people who haven’t had the opportunity yet to see live performances in their schools this year, and bring some laughter and magic to their day to brighten up their mood. Performances of "Allegra" were followed by a series of 4 workshops facilitated by Diana Tso. Susie Burpee is an award-winning multi-faceted dance artist with over 25 years of experience in the performing arts in Canada. As Susie's alter ego, Allegra Charleston outshines her most of the time with her love of art and public space, and her incomparable joie de vivre! Funded by PHOTO CREDITS

June 2024 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / MONDAY DANCING / AFROCARIBBEAN DANCE MOVES - JUNE 2024 DANCING Monday 7 pm A new dance form each month! June 2024 AFROCARIBBEAN DANCE MOVES June 3 - 10 - 17, 2024 Facilitator: Nickeshia Garrick Join us for Monday Dancing at The Jamii Hub for a series of movement-based workshops led by Nickeshia Garrick, Jamii's lead artist for June! The workshops offer a contemporary take on a fun-paced, Afro-Caribbean-influenced dance workshop that introduces polyrhythms, helping you understand the innate rhythms that flow within all of us. Participants work on small movement combos that will expand every week! ALL movers are welcome to this movement workshop, beginners and advanced! REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Jae Yang Nickeshia Garrick Nickeshia Garrick is a settler on the stolen land of Tkaronto and has performed on this land for over 25 years. They are unapologetically a Black, Queer Artist, who believes in the healing power of breath through raw emotion and movement. Nickeshia received their dance training at the NYIDE (New York Institution of Dance and Education), National Ballet School of Canada (Tkaronto), Toronto Dance Theatre (Tkaronto), and Simon Fraser University (Vancouver). Nickeshia is a Dora Mavor Moore, winning and multi-nominated artist who holds a BFA in Dance from Simon Fraser University. Recently, Nickeshia became the Co-Founder of the dance collective CinnaMoon Collective which premiered their full-length work, Surrendered Spirits at Canadian Stage. Instagram Photo by Sabrine S. Hakam