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

The Jamii Hub turns into a creative writing sanctuary on Sundays! Led by Carolina Leité, join us to explore the concept of Forró, weaving our personal experiences into poetry and spoken word. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CREATIVE WRITING / FORRO - FEBRUARY 2024 VERSIFYING Sunday 7 pm Discover your unique poetic voice! February 2024 FORRÓ February 4 - 11 - 18, 2024 Facilitator: Carolina Leite In the inaugural session of our Sunday Versifying series, we'll briefly explore the concept of Forró, weaving our personal experiences into poetry and spoken word. Participants will delve into the world of Northeast Brazilian music, gaining insights and unlocking creativity through the art of storytelling. REGISTER NOW Photos by Shaimaa Yakout Carolina Leite Toronto-based creative. Originally from Brazil, Sao Paulo. Creative writing & music representative. MILKNDHONEY's Career started when she landed a scholarship in Toronto through a poetry contest that took place in Brazil, 2015. Since then, she has volunteered in Festivals with Manifesto and Uma Nota Culture, conducted creative writing workshops with OCASI and pitched her point of view in regards to emerging artists in Toronto with Shifter Magazine. Currently, MILKNDHONEY is part of Mar Aberto, an Afro-Brazilian Drumming group based in Toronto while developing her exclusive music and entrepreneurial career. Instagram Photo by Ana Higuera

OUTDOOR EVENTS / ALLEGRA - 2021 Allegra Mar - Apr 2021 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

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Sabrine S Hakam Photographer website 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. << BACK TO ARTISTS

The Jamii Hub turns into a singing sanctuary on Fridays! In May, join us to uncover the full potential of your singing voice. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / FRIDAY SINGING / EXPLORING YOUR AUTHENTIC VOICE - MAY 2024 SINGING Friday 7 pm Explore singing in a community sing-along! EXPLORING YOUR AUTHENTIC VOICE May 2024 May 10 - 17 - 24, 2024 Facilitator: Germaine Konji Three singing workshops led by Germain Konji during which you will be using your spoken voices as a gateway to a fresh perspective on singing. Through engaging group vocal warm-ups and exercises, uncover the full potential of your singing voice. In this workshop, Germaine will integrate elements of voice and text training within a group setting to explore the art of singing. Together, we'll dive into core principles of vocal technique, enhancing our sound and expanding our vocal abilities. With these three workshops, we will have one musical creation to share, for those willing, on May 25th, for our Saturday Mingling! There will be some movement activities which would be ideal with yoga mat. If you have a yoga mat, please bring one. Otherwise Jamii will provide them. REGISTER NOW Photos by Hadeal Karrar Germaine Konji Germaine Konji (they/them) is a Kenyan-Canadian actor, singer, and writer. A two time Dora nominee, their artistry often lives where the theatrical, cultural, and political intersect. Select credits: Universal Child Care (Canadian Stage), Grand Magic, A Wrinkle in Time, Finally There’s Sun (Stratford Festival), Serving Elizabeth (Theatre Aquarius), Dixon Road (Obsidian/ Musical Stage Co), UnCovered, the Music of ABBA, UnCovered, the Music of Carole King (Musical Stage Co.), Into the Woods (Talk is Free Theatre) Instagram Photo by Bradlee Dela Cruz

< 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

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 I am me. I am mighty. 2019 - SEPTEMBER In partnership with Ontario Culture Days and Toronto Public LIbrarry (St Lawrence Branch) 2019 - SEPTEMBER Jamii and the Toronto Public Library St Lawrence Branch partnered to present "I am me. I am mighty.", a celebration of culture as a thread that weaves our community together. The event was a buzz of activities from gifted artists; Crafting led by May Massijeh whose love for stories started as a child with her grandmother on a kitchen counter in Damascus. She continued to share that passion, by making art with young people in Syria and Canada and advocating for art and environmental education in conflict times. In her artistic and academic work, May focused on learning about children's collective perspectives on integration and homemaking through theatre, animation and storytelling. Every now and then, she likes crafting with maps and leaves, and coming up with ideas for children books. Live music by Aline Morales and Arlene Paculan who is an award-winning Filipino-Canadian from Mississauga. Since 2010, she has toured across Canada, UK, Europe and the US. Throughout her career, she has consistently campaigned the idea of a positive self image using the titles of her original songs, "I’m Worth It" and "Shine So Bright". Her story of transforming from an introverted, shy individual to hosting her own TV show supports her belief that we all have a voice that can be expressed through art. She currently hosts Striving Artist, a TV Show on Filipino TV. Drawing workshop with Connie Wang,an inspirational speaker, self expression coach and actress. Connie's life purpose to live an authentic and fully self-expressed life. She is committed to transforming the world to be a place that includes all humans just as they are. Currently, she is redefining what it means to be a warrior woman. Live portraits were taken by Alison Garwood and story times led by Sharon McMilland, St Lawrence Library and Parent Resources EarlyON CFC To register, click below: http://closed

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

OUTDOOR EVENTS / LUMINUS - 2021 & 2022 LuminUs 2021 and 2022 Featuring "The Journey to LuminUS" Friday Nov 18 & Saturday Nov 19, 2022 The Esplanade & Princess St. David Crombie Park In Partnership with “Live at the Kisanii Hub” is bringing back The Journey to LuminUS by Clay and Paper Theatre to David Crombie Park in November 2022! Photos by Jae Yang Clay and Paper Theatre's giant luminous animals and life-sized human lantern puppets turned our dark November night into a gorgeous glowing journey! Musician Beny Esguerra had a touch of magic and we were enchanted by his new tradition music! Members of the Esplanade community, who joined Jamii's Turkish mosaic lantern workshops, led by Art Masterclass, helped us spread this magic in the neighbourhood! Credits The Journey to LuminUs by Clay and Paper Theatre Andrew Gaboury as Fox Sophie Bouey as Bird Shayna Burns as Wolf Keely Krall as the Star and Whale Daniel Sutherland as Human Time and Bear Directing Team: David Anderson, Tamara Romanchuk and Jordan M.Burns Live Music by Beny Esguerra And community members of The Esplanade with their Turkish mosaic candle holders! Organized by Jamii Team: Afnan Yakot, Iris Unlu, Isorine Marc, Jonelle Sills, Nadifa Daud Mohamed, Yusra Yacout Event Videographer: Eray Guler Event Photographer: Jae Yang Supported by February 25, 26, and 27, 2021 David Crombie Park A whimsical offering with beautiful puppets that transformed our streets into a magical floating garden, and brought joy to everyone. LuminUS was inspired by the dark days and nights of early 2021, both seasonally and historically, as we moved through the winter of coronavirus and social change, towards illumination and a better understanding of what it means to be connected to one another and the earth through acts of radical care and deep kindness. We hoped that this project would allow us the chance to engage and celebrate the best of ourselves and our hopes for a caring Toronto/Tkaronto through connection, artful expressions of sculpture, light, music, large scale puppetry and spectacle. LuminUS was conceived, designed, built and directed by Clay and Paper Theatre’s co-artistic director’s Tamara Romanchuk and David Anderson. Performed by Amelia Blaine, Jesse Wabegijig, Devlin Edgar Flynn and Chris Wilson. Supported by PHOTO CREDITS

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

The Jamii Hub turns into a singing sanctuary on Fridays! In March, join us to explore traditional celebrating songs from Souther Africa, led by Brian S. Moyo. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / FRIDAY SINGING / TRADITIONAL CELEBRATION SONGS FROM SOUTHERN AFRICA - MARCH 2025 SINGING Friday 7 pm Explore singing in a community sing-along! TRADITIONAL CELEBRATION SONGS FROM SOUTHERN AFRICA March 2025 March 7 - 14 - 21, 2025 Facilitator: Brian S. Moyo Step into a world of rhythm, movement, and joyful singing with multitalented artist Brian S. Moyo in this vibrant 90-minute workshop. Brian will guide you through the traditional celebration songs of Southern Africa, songs that are woven into the fabric of life’s happiest moments, like birthdays, weddings, and the arrival of the rainy season. Together, we’ll celebrate the power of music to ground us, uplift us, and bring us together in joy and tradition. In this welcoming, all-ages workshop, no previous singing or dance experience is required, just bring your energy and an open heart! Together, we’ll explore the art of call-and-response singing, using our voices and bodies to bring the music to life. Expect rhythmic clapping, chanting, and simple dance steps, all designed to help you connect with the rhythm of the music and each other. You’ll be encouraged to embrace the joy and communal spirit of these songs as you learn their meaning and cultural significance. Feel free to bring shakers or any other small instruments you’d like to add to the sound, this is your chance to get creative and fully immerse yourself in the music! Everyone, regardless of ability level, is invited to participate and move at their own pace. For those who want to take their experience further and perform, we invite you to join Saturday Mingling on March 22, a lively evening of artistic sharing where community members and artists come together to celebrate the creative journey. We can’t wait to sing, dance, and connect with you! Friday Singing is part of Jamii's March Cycle evolved around lead artist Sharon Zarita Adhiambo’s theme "Grounded", which includes workshops like Monday Dancing, Tuesday Culture Cloths, Tuesday Book Club, Tuesday Creative Writing, Wednesday Sewing, Thursday Painting, and Thursday Crafting. “Through these workshops, we let art and community exchanges guide the discovery of what grounds us, or what we need to find grounding on, and pass this discovery to someone else's journey.” - Sharon Zarita Adhiambo. REGISTER NOW Photos by Jeeya Gandhi, Mariana Hernandez, Hadeal Karrar Brian S. Moyo Brian S. Moyo is a multitalented singer, dancer and choreographer originally from Plumtree, in southwest Zimbabwe. Brian has over two decades of experience performing and conducting workshops in Canada, UK, Norway and Estonia. He has worked with Southern African Embrace Foundation, TNO Summer Festival, Bring on the Sunshine African Festival, Open Streets Toronto, Habari Africa Festival in Harbourfront Centre, and Batuki Music Society. In 2016, he co-founded Izimba Arts, a collective of African performing artists who pursue art as an instrument for community engagement. The group specializes in high-energy traditional and urban dances and music from Southern Africa. Photo Credit: Unknown

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

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

The Jamii Hub turns into a singing sanctuary on Fridays! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / FRIDAY SINGING / RETURN - NOVEMBER 2024 SINGING Friday 7 pm Explore singing in a community sing-along! RETURN November 2024 November 8 - 15 - 22, 2024 Facilitator: Natalie Fasheh Over three sessions, participants will explore the theme of "return" in relation to Palestinians; their displacement, hopes and wishes of return, and right of return. Participants will learn a song in Arabic relating to the theme. We will have some dialogue about the theme, and through vocal improvisation activities, and engaging singing and harmony warmups, we will also incorporate our collective learnings of "return" into a song. We will have the chance to share these songs in the Saturday mingling event on November 23! REGISTER NOW Photos by Jeeya Gandhi, Mariana Hernandez, Hadeal Karrar Natalie Fasheh Natalie is a Palestinian artist and social impact leader in Toronto. She works with communities as an arts administrator, choir conductor, teaching artist, composer, and writer. She is deeply committed to decolonial and pluralistic art. She is also a community organizer, and leads the protest choir Sumudna صمودنا. Natalie has worked with arts organizations as a producer, and consultant for their strategic plans and programming, from an equity and justice lens. Photo Credit: Unknown

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

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

The Jamii Hub turns into a creative writing sanctuary once a month on Tuesdays! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CREATIVE WRITING / CRYSTAL CLEAR CONVERSATIONS - FEBRUARY 2025 DISCOVERING Tuesday 7 pm Creative Writing February 2025 CRYSTAL CLEAR CONVERSATIONS February 18, 2025 Facilitator: Joshua "Scribe" Watkis In this creative writing workshop led by Joshua “Scribe” Watkis, we’ll explore the art of framing self-talk through poetry. Together, we’ll craft poems that serve as both affirmations and challenges, designed to inspire personal growth. By learning to view ourselves honestly, we uncover the potential for creating profound poetry, and by practicing healthy self-critique, we enhance our ability to set and achieve goals with clarity and purpose. REGISTER NOW Photos by Shaimaa Yakout, Hadeal Karrar Joshua “Scribe” Watkis Scarborough-born poet Joshua “Scribe” Watkis has performed spoken word and Hip-Hop across Canada; opening for Hip-Hop legends like Saukrates and The Roots. He was a four-time finalist at the Canadian Festival of Spoken Word, winning the national championship in 2019. The two-time Tedx speaker has authored two chapbooks (Tethered and Black Blossom/Harsh North), and was featured on the first Spoken Word Audiobook on Audible: Power In Poetry; Moods That Move. Most recently, he co-curated and hosted ‘The Old Black Maple’, for the NAC’s debut Hip-Hop Theatre Festival. Additionally, Scribe is also an arts educator and mentor, sharing his story to help others share their own; in their words, out loud. Photo Credit: Unknown

The Jamii Hub on The Esplanade is home to a new dance form guided by Toronto dance artists each month. Join our dance workshops and enjoy being around a community! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / TUESDAY DISCOVERING / BOOK CLUB / CORDEL LITERATURE - FEBRUARY 2024 LEARNING Tuesday 7 pm Book Club CORDEL LITERATURE February 2024 February 6, 2024 Facilitator: Eshe Mercer-James Embark on a literary exploration of Cordel literature with us—an intricate blend of oral and written traditions from 19th-century northeastern Brazil. Discover how this dynamic form supports and empowers marginalized folk cultures of the region. Cordel spread through the nation as these groups searched for economic opportunities in the big cities, and is now both an officially recognized Brazilian cultural heritage product and a developing genre in contemporary Brazilian culture. We'll delve into the works of Salete Maria, a Cordelista, Feminista e Libertária, challenging traditional norms in this historically male-dominated endeavor. Join us for a concise yet captivating evening at the intersection of cultural heritage and contemporary expression. You don’t have to know Portuguese to enjoy this session. REGISTER NOW! Photos by Isorine Marc Eshe Mercer-James Eshe Mercer-James has taught literature courses at both York and Trent Universities, and also works with the Canadian Language Museum. Her PhD dissertation, Framing Standard and Dialect in Black Women’s Novels (2021), was nominated for the Mary McEwan Memorial Award, a prize for feminist scholarship. She also has a longstanding interest in Brazilian culture, and spent a month in the northeast part of the country to experience the Festa de São João festival (also known as Festa Junina). She is excited to experience some of that energy in Toronto. Photo Credit: Unknown

INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY Jamii's Annual Celebrations Celebrating Indigenous peoples and cultures since 2019 in The Esplanade! WHEN JUNE 21, 2025 SHOW TIMES TBD WHERE DAVID CROMBIE PARK More to come for the 7th annual celebrations in 2025! The National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration takes place on June 21st at David Crombie Park and Jamii has been celebrating it since 2019! Every year this event brings the community together to honor Indigenous cultures, traditions, and contributions through live performances, art exhibitions, storytelling, and more. Experience the richness of Indigenous music, dance, and art, while learning about the heritage and resilience of Indigenous peoples. This event is a chance for all ages to come together in solidarity, reflection, and joy. CHECK OUT PREVIOUS YEARS' OF INDIGENOUS DAY CELEBRATIONS 2024 MORE INFO 2020 MORE INFO 2023 MORE INFO 2019 MORE INFO 2022 MORE INFO 2021 MORE INFO

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

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

Explore Jamii’s decade-long journey in The Esplanade community through our season reviews - your visual guide to Jamii's impact! A Deep Dive into Jamii's Past Programming Year-in-Reviews This is a captivating journey through the vibrant tapestry of artistic experiences that have unfolded over the past decade in The Esplanade community. Since 2011, Jamii has passionately dedicated itself to enhancing togetherness by providing free, accessible artistic programs to everyone. We believe in the transformative power of shared experiences, and our commitment to building a connected community is reflected in the diverse array of events that took place in The Esplanade. From captivating shows to collaborative workshops, each program has been a stepping stone toward our goal of a stronger, healthier, and more resilient community. Join us in reliving these moments, as we celebrate the memories that bind us together and look forward to the continued enrichment of our neighborhood and beyond through the magic of the arts. HERE IS A SNAPSHOT OF THE PAST FEW YEARS OF JAMII'S MAGIC IN THE ESPLANADE COMMUNITY AND BEYOND! 2024 CHECK OUT 2023 CHECK OUT 2022 CHECK OUT 2021 CHECK OUT 2020 CHECK OUT 2019 CHECK OUT 2018 CHECK OUT 2017 CHECK OUT 2016 CHECK OUT 2015 CHECK OUT 2014 CHECK OUT 2013 CHECK OUT

The Jamii Hub turns into a painting sanctuary once every month on Thursdays! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / THURSDAY CREATING / PAINTING NIGHTS / PAINTING GROUNDING AND RENEWAL - MARCH 2025 CREATING Thursday 7 pm Painting Nights PAINTING GROUNDING AND RENEWAL March 2025 March 6, 2025 Facilitator: Seema Anwar What colours make you feel grounded? What textures bring a sense of renewal? In this guided, reflective workshop, participants of all ages and skill levels will explore these questions through mixed media painting. Using acrylic paint, recycled textiles, and craft materials, you’ll start by creating a background of colours, patterns, and shapes that evoke stability. Then, through layering, stitching, and gluing, you’ll add textures that represent renewal, what sustains and refreshes you. With a brief discussion to spark ideas before diving into painting, this two-hour creative experience is not just about making art but about connecting with yourself and your community. You’ll leave with: Your own finished artwork New painting and mixed media techniques New memories shared with others Whether you're picking up a brush for the first time or you’ve been making art for years, this is a space to reflect, create, and feel inspired. For those who want to take their experience further and display their artwork, we invite you to join Saturday Mingling on March 22, a lively evening of artistic sharing where community members and artists come together to celebrate the creative journey. Join us for an evening of colour, creativity, and connection. Painting Night is part of Jamii's March Cycle evolved around lead artist Sharon Zarita Adhiambo’s theme "Grounded", which includes workshops like Monday Dancing, Tuesday Culture Cloths, Tuesday Book Club, Tuesday Creative Writing, Wednesday Sewing, Thursday Crafting, and Friday Singing. “Through these workshops, we let art and community exchanges guide the discovery of what grounds us, or what we need to find grounding on, and pass this discovery to someone else's journey.” - Sharon Zarita Adhiambo. Please note that the March 6 workshop is now full . Join the waitlist, and we will contact you if there are spots open up. We encourage you to look out your email inbox (including "Promotion" / "Other" inbox) closer to the workshop date. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Afnan Yakot, Ghader Bsmar, Hadeal Karrar Seema Anwar Seema Anwar has a diploma in textile design. She was under the tutelage of Mr. Azer Zubi and Mohammad Ali Bhatti, both well-known artists in Pakistan. Seema uses various mediums such as watercolor, pen work, pastels, glass, and oil paints. Seema believes art can be used as a therapy to relieve stress, trauma, and other daily struggles. Ever since she moved to Canada she has been working with many communities such as the Flemington Community Centre, Arts in the Park, Malton Women Council, Making Art Making Change, Voice of Toronto, Afghan Women, Toronto Green, TNO organization, FHC and Flemingdon Community Support Services. She has worked on various projects such as gender-based violence, green earth initiatives, and art therapy with the TNO organization in the senior group and Early On, Autism Thorncliffe group and Alzheimer Society. In 2023, she did 2 exhibitions, one was Wedbi and one was Scarborough's topic on Islamic heritage. She did one event with the Art in the Park organization in 2023 at Burgess Park Thorncliffe to reduce climate change and recycle textiles. She leads art workshops for physical and mental health and wellness in the community. She has aimed to use her artwork to spread joy and happiness. Photo by Iris Unlu

2021/03 < Back to Events Red Rhythm & Blues CREDITS: WITH THE SUPPORT OF:

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Nova Bhattacharya Dancer website Nova Bhattacharya is an award-winning, barrier-breaking, artist and cultural leader based in Tkaronto. Her creations are filled with lush, vivid images that invite the viewer on a journey of imagination. Her creative inspiration is found in her hybridity of born and raised in Canada-Bengali-ness, and immersion in global movement traditions that are carried in bodies of the diaspora. She’s always been a rebel breaking rules, reinterpreting traditions, and reinventing rituals. In 2008 she founded Nova Dance a space for creation, conversations, and collaborations. << BACK TO ARTISTS

2023/05 < Back to Events Diversity of the African Culture through Music Live Event - Musical performance and discussion May 5, 2023 The Jamii Hub Waleed Abdulhamid, a multi-instrumentalist, composer, vocalist, producer and film-maker, took the audience on a journey diving into the diversity of the African culture through music, and exploring how it has influenced modern music and songs, from Jazz to Pop. Waleed shared different ways to play rhythms, as well as how the rhythms shape composition and performance sensibilities. Waleed was accompanied by Sarah Lounsbury, on keys. CREDITS: Live music and host: Waleed Abdulhamid. Accompanied by Sarah Lounsbury on keys. WITH THE SUPPORT OF:

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

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Jonelle Sills Opera Singer website 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. << BACK TO ARTISTS

2023/05 < Back to Events Svaha Live Event - Dance May 26. 27 , 28. 2023 David Crombie Park "Svāhā!", a celebration of dance as a revitalizing ritual that brings us closer together. Created by award-winning Nova Bhattacharya , Svāhā! was an offering of movement, music, colours and sensations. It embodied the transformative power of dance, expressing the uniqueness of the individual and the value of community. Bringing together dancers from a varying dance forms and cultural backgrounds, Svāhā! asked how can we be better together? “I am inspired by the eloquence of the human body and the intelligence of the senses. The potential for dance to stimulate people emotionally, intellectually, and spiritually drives my commitment to creating dances that exalt the human spirit and express ideas that words cannot.” ~ Nova Bhattacharya This dance performance included a warm-up with the professional dancers, and a series of dance workshops (cypher) led by Mel Hart so that everyone could join the dance with us. As a perk, our little ones were treated to facepainting with local artist Linda Epp. Founded by Nova Bhattacharya in 2008, dance company Nova Dance brings new ideas to dance, re-inventing the possibilities of the art. The company breaks down conventions and encourages new talent with the best and most exciting in performance the world over. Nova Dance works with artists from many art forms and a multitude of backgrounds to create a community that celebrates the life-force of dance in our lives. Nova Dance exists to bring contemporary Canadian dance towards a new future. Embracing diversity as creative inspiration for a body of work that has garnered awards, national and international recognition, and most importantly made connections with audiences and communities. Find more on their website: https://www.novadance.ca/company-biography CREDITS: Director: Nova Bhattacharya Dancers: Mellisa Hart, Candace Kumar, Neena Jayarajan, Rajvi Dedhia, Nova Bhattacharya Facepainting: Linda Epp Sewing: Diséiye Thompson Organized by the Jamii Team Produced by Jamii WITH THE SUPPORT OF:

2020/08, 10 < Back to Events Hisia CREDITS: WITH THE SUPPORT OF:

The Jamii Hub turns into a painting sanctuary once every month on Thursdays! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / THURSDAY CREATING / PAINTING NIGHTS / TEKA LANG - OCTOBER 2024 CREATING Thursday 7 pm Painting Nights TEKA LANG October 2024 October 10, 2024 Facilitator: Ephraim Velasco In this workshop, inspired by the theme of TEKA LANG , participants will explore the value of slowing down and taking time to reflect through painting techniques. Under the leadership and guidance from Ephraim Velasco, the group will focus on using acrylic paint and pencil crayons, learning how to control the amount of water and paint applied to create various desired effects, from rich and bold opaque layers to soft, translucent washes. Doing this process, specifically waiting for the paint to dry, mirrors that theme of patience and mindfulness taken from TEKA LANG . Participants will also experiment with creating gradients and using tape to create clean, satisfying shapes! During the workshop, Ephraim will share personal stories related to the theme. For example, his mother would remind me as a child to find his “happy place,” when feeling overwhelmed which for him was the beach in the Philippines. Through this exercise, participants are able to discover and draw back to their own stories and emotions, using color as a means of expression. The goal is to create meaningful, yet simple pieces that reflect our individual journeys while grounding us in the present moment. Join us on this workshop on Thursday, October 10th at 7pm for a beautiful painting night together. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Afnan Yakot Ephraim Velasco Ephraim Velasco is an interdisciplinary visual artist and aspiring illustrator who specializes on identity formation, concept art, self expression, empowerment, gender & sexuality in the realm of fashion, pop culture, ancestral stories/designs, nostalgia, consumerist desires and cultural hybrids. Through traditional and digital drawing, painting, and collage, he creates playful, bold, unapologetic, dramatic and vibrantly coloured compositions of hybrid identities and characters. Recently graduating with a BFA in Visual Arts at York University, he seeks to facilitate conversations around belonging and culture through his work relating to personal experiences of Filipino diaspora and neurodivergence. Photo Credit: Unknown

The Jamii Hub turns into a painting sanctuary once every month on Thursdays! In April, participants will paint a motherland inspired painting with the lead of Julian Periquet. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / THURSDAY CREATING / PAINTING NIGHTS / MOTHERLAND - APRIL 2024 CREATING Thursday 7 pm Painting Nights MOTHERLAND April 2024 April 11, 2024 Facilitator: Julian Periquet Unleash your creative spirit at Painting Night! Immerse yourself in a vibrant evening of brushstrokes, colors, and a warm atmosphere. Whether you're an experienced artist or a beginner, our painting nights provide a space for self-expression and connection. After each session, take home your masterpiece and cherish the memories of a delightful evening at Jamii. No experience required – just a passion for art and a willingness to explore! REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Afnan Yakot Julian Periquet Marc Julian Periquet is a proud Canadian Filipino born and raised in the downtown core neighbourhood, The Esplanade. He established an addiction to the art world at an early age. More so from the encouragement and creative techniques his father Ernesto instilled in him. Many of his weapons of mass creation vary from pencils to pens, markers to charcoal, acrylics to pastels, spray cans and more. Hands on with all purpose materials, Julian doesn't shy away from making an everyday object come to life artistically. New ventures such as live painting and set building have given Julian an opportunity to work with various creatives. Working well under pressure and inviting new challenges will always be an ever growing trait on his journey. Instagram Photo Credit: Unknown

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Sharon Liboi Singer website Liboi is a Nairobi-based Singer/ Songwriter who uses her creative ability to express the human experience, question humanity and improve the well-being of the deprived in society. Liboi is also a filmmaker, community journalist and project coordinator. Liboi is a strong proponent for social change, culture, and mental awareness. She does African Contemporary music which is a blend of traditional music with elements of popular African genres. Through her music, Liboi has been able to embrace diverse themes from hope, mental health, life, love, patriotism, tribalism, peace, immigration and social ills. She has performed at many events including Unplug Fest: A wellness and revitalization festival, Usawa Festival, and Fete De La Musique at Alliance Francaise Nairobi among others. She has also been in Artist Residencies like Look Me In The I: Co-creation, installation and performance show in Nairobi, Kenya and Into The Mirror: Co-creation, installation and performance show in Rome, Italy. Liboi has also made musical tours in Tanzania, Norway and Spain. She has been featured in ‘From The Margins Album’- an album by Dorphan, a Kenyan poet and ‘Art Continues Album’- an album by Pawa254. << BACK TO ARTISTS

Jamii produces workshops, projects and events, presenting amazing artists right in our community. Subscribe to receive our bi-monthly e-news and stay tuned for happenings in The Esplanade! Subscribe Let event, workshop, and community updates come to your inbox! First Name Last Name Email I live in or close to The Esplanade, Toronto. I want to subscribe to your mailing list. SUBMIT

The Jamii Hub on The Esplanade is home to a new dance form guided by Toronto dance artists each month. Join our dance workshops and enjoy being around a community! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / TUESDAY DISCOVERING / BOOK CLUB / THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS - FEBRUARY 2025 DISCOVERING Tuesday 7 pm Book Club THROUGH THE LOOKING GLASS February 2025 February 4, 2025 Facilitator: Eshe Mercer-James This month, as part of Jonelle Sills' theme “Mirrors,” Jamii’s Book Club will explore Lewis Carroll's Through the Looking-Glass . Following Alice’s journey into a mirror wonderland, we’ll explore the theme of reflection and ask ourselves: What’s in your looking-glass world? The book is in the public domain and is easily accessible online , at libraries, or in bookstores. We invite you to read it and join our discussion, facilitated by literature professor Eshe Mercer-James. REGISTER NOW! Photos by Ghader Bsmar and Isorine Marc, Jeeya Gandhi Eshe Mercer-James Eshe Mercer-James has taught literature courses at both York and Trent Universities and also works with the Canadian Language Museum. Her PhD dissertation, Framing Standard and Dialect in Black Women’s Novels (2021), was nominated for the Mary McEwan Memorial Award, a prize for feminist scholarship. She is excited to share her passion for literature with the Jamii community! Photo Credit: Ghader Bsmar

2023/04 < Back to Events Stolen Live Event - Opera, Classical Music, and Discussion Challenging the themes of “Art & Ownership” April 3, 2023 The Jamii Hub On April 3rd, a beautiful crowd joined us at The Jamii Hub for an evening of engaging music featuring Jonelle Sills, Dior Quartet and in-depth conversation on theme of Stolen led by community member Sarah Ahmad. This will be an opportunity to explore and challenge the idea of Art and what is deemed worthy of being Stolen. Through the generous support of the Metcalf Foundation's Performing Arts Internship Program Jonelle has been working with Jamii as a Connector since September. Her goal through this internship has been to grow as an administrator and producer and as a classically trained soprano she wishes to explore how opera experiences could become part of the social fabric of communities and a tool for engagement and community building. Jonelle is a Canadian Soprano and currently a part of Jamii team as a Connector. Jonelle was named one of York University’s top 30 alumni under 30 for 2022 and in 2020 was one of CBC Music’s classical “30 under 30” performers and is a 2019 Dora award winner for “Outstanding performance of an Ensemble” in Vivier’s Kopernikus with Against the Grain Theatre. Jonelle holds an Artist Diploma from the Glenn Gould School at The Royal Conservatory of Music and a Bachelor of Fine Arts from York University. Jonelle was recently a member of the Yulanda M. Faris Young Artist Program at Vancouver Opera for their 2021 and 2022 season. Joined together from Israel, Korea-Canada, Saint Lucia, and the USA, the Dior String Quartet was the 2023 Quartet-in-Residence at the Glenn Gould School, Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto. The conversation was moderated by Sarah N Ahmad. Sarah is a multidisciplinary urbanist currently based in Toronto. As a fierce advocate for inclusive, sustainable and equitable cities and public spaces, Sarah has worked in the government, private and non profit sector on diverse projects aims at improving city life. At heart, Sarah believes in the power of community programming, public art and public space in bridging gaps and fostering meaningful, tolerant and inclusive associations with place. Sarah holds an Msc in Building and Urban Design for Development from the University College of London, U.K. and a Bachelor of Arts in Growth and Structure of Cities from Bryn Mawr College, U.S.A. CREDITS: Host: Jonelle Sills Live Performance: Dior Quartet (Noa Sarid, Tobias Elser, Caleb Georges, Joanne Yesol Choi) Soprano Singer: Jonelle Sills Moderator: Sarah N. Ahmad Photos: Isorine Marc WITH THE SUPPORT OF:

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Suzette Vidale Musician website With roots from Trinidad, the home of the steelpan, Suzette has incorporated the rich and vibrant cultures of Toronto into her diverse repertoire. Her love of working with children has allowed her to merge her craft with education and teach with a focus on cooperation and team building through the use of the steelpan. Performance highlights include the annual Mayor's Art Luncheon, the Toronto Pan Am Games, the Congress of Black Women of Canada Annual Brunch, the Art Gallery of Ontario and most recently the 2022 Royal Common Wealth Society's Queen's Platinum Jubilee. Her greatest moments are using the steelpan as a wellness tool for youth and the city's most vulnerable women experiencing mental health challenges and homelessness. Suzette will continue sharing her craft with people from all walks of life and welcomes everyone to join her on her journey of "educating, entertaining, and inspiring". << BACK TO ARTISTS

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:

The Jamii Hub on The Esplanade, Toronto is home to sewing workshops on Wednesdays! Open for beginners to intermediate, come connect with fellow enthusiasts! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / Wednesday Sewing SEWING Wednesday 7 pm Beginner and Intermediate Sewing Workshops WHEN | Wednesday from 7pm to 9pm - Check the dates below for each month's sessions WHERE | The Jamii Hub @ 264 The Esplanade AGE GROUP | All Ages - Children under 12 are welcome when accompanied by an adult FREE ADMISSION | REGISTRATION REQUIRED | NO PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE NEEDED Explore the art of sewing in our weekly workshops. Whether you're a novice or an experienced hand, join us for hands-on sessions guided by skilled instructor Anita Boey. Acquire essential sewing skills, connect with fellow enthusiasts, and relish a supportive environment. We provide fabric, and you're welcome to bring your own. Come with your curiosity, and let's sew together! IMPORTANT INFORMATION! Each month we work on different projects. Registered participants shall commit to all four workshops to complete the project. REGISTER NOW May 2025 PATCHWORK PADDED TOTE BAG April 30 - May 7 - 14 - 21, 2025 Artist: Mariam Ahmad MORE INFO November 2024 TWO-TONE DRESS WITH BELT Oct 30 - Nov 6 - 13 - 20, 2024 Artist: Anita Boey MORE INFO May 2024 KIMONO-STYLE CARDIGAN May 5 - 12 - 19 - 26, 2024 Artist: Anita Boey MORE INFO April 2025 AGUAYO MINI PURSE April 9, 16, 23 Artist: Anita Boey MORE INFO October 2024 BUCKET HAT AND BANDANA Oct 2 - 9 - 16 - 23, 2024 Artist: Anita Boey MORE INFO April 2024 MOTHERLAND CIRCLE TOP April 7 - 14 21 28, 2024 Artist: Anita Boey MORE INFO March 2025 QUILTED PILLOWCASE SET February 26 - March 5 - 12 - 19, 2025 Artist: Anita Boey MORE INFO September 2024 HOODED SCARF Sept 4 - 11 - 18 - 25, 2024 Artist: Anita Boey MORE INFO March 2024 MIGRATION WRAP TOP March 3 - 10 - 17 - 24, 2024 Artist: Anita Boey MORE INFO February 2025 MIRROR BAG Jan 29 - Feb 5 - 12 - 19, 2025 Artist: Anita Boey MORE INFO June 2024 WRAP SKIRT June 2 - 9 - 16 - 23, 2024 Artist: Mariam Ahmad MORE INFO February 2024 FREE STYLE February 4 - 11, 2024 Artist: Anita Boey MORE INFO Calendar No events at the moment UPCOMING DATES

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

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

Beginner and Intermediate Friendly Projects INDOOR ACTIVITIES / WEDNESDAY SEWING / AGUAYO MINI PURSE - APRIL 2025 SEWING Wednesday 7 pm Beginner and Intermediate Friendly Projects April 2025 AGUAYO MINI PURSE April 9, 16, 23 Artist: Anita Boey Welcome to April’s sewing series, where we’ll guide you through creating your very own Aguayo Mini Purse using the beautiful, traditional Aguayo fabric from the Andes. Led by Sewing Facilitator Anita Boey, this 3-part series will introduce you to the fascinating process of working with hand-picked Aguayo fabric, traditionally woven from llama, alpaca, or sheep wool and full of vibrant colours. The Aguayo fabric, used by Andean communities across Bolivia, Chile, Ecuador, Peru, and Argentina, has been brought to us through Carolina’s friends in Chile, and in this workshop, you’ll learn to craft a functional and stylish mini purse. Whether you’re new to sewing or looking to refresh your skills, this hands-on workshop will guide you through the steps of cutting, sewing, and finishing your purse. You’ll have a selection of Aguayo fabric to choose from, though you’re also welcome to bring your own fabric (just half a yard will be enough for this project). Ghader, our dedicated Sewing Workshop Assistant, will also be on hand to help you get comfortable using the sewing machine and assist with any sewing questions. The series will take place over three Wednesday evenings: April 9 – Introduction to the theme of the Chakana, and how it has inspired the design of the Aguayo Mini Purse. You’ll select your fabric, transfer the pattern, and prepare your materials. April 16 – Sew the purse and strap. April 23 – Add the finishing touches, including button snaps, and complete your project. By the end of this workshop series, you’ll have a unique and functional Aguayo Mini Purse to treasure, along with new sewing skills and connections with fellow participants in a supportive, creative environment. For those who want to take their experience further and display their creations, we invite you to join Saturday Mingling on April 26, a lively evening of artistic sharing where community members and artists come together to celebrate the creative journey. This Sewing workshop is part of Jamii's April cycle, guided by lead artist Carolina Rojas, and centred around the theme of the Chakana—an ancestral Andean symbol representing the connection between the spiritual, earthly, and inner realms. Through these workshops in dancing, painting, crafting, sewing,singing and creative writing, we’ll reflect on how these ancient teachings resonate with our modern lives, connecting us to nature, the cycles of life, and our community. “This is an invitation to reinterpret the meaning of the Chakana, connecting its ancient wisdom with our modern experiences.” – Carolina Rojas. REGISTRATIONS CLOSED 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

2021, 2022 < Back to Events LuminUs CREDITS: WITH THE SUPPORT OF:

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Linda Epp Facepainter website Linda is a face painter for approximately 10 years. Her story with face painting began with her two children went out for Halloween one year when they were quite young. She went and bought some terrible (non FDA approved) paint at the dollar store and thought she could magically transform them. She later figured out that it didn’t quite work out that way, but she fell in love with the art of face painting. She has since honed her skills with workshops and many hours of practice. Linda has worked with many organizations such as the St. Lawrence BIA, Jamii, long term care facilities, local festivals and private birthday parties. << BACK TO ARTISTS

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:

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

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Erin Ademoglu Arts Facilitator website Erin Ademoğlu weaves elagance through the wreckage of forgotten factories and graveyards of oyr favourite things. Handcrafted jewelry for women and men. Wearable. Modern & timeless. -Basic Jewellery workshops are available for educational centers and parties for all ages. -Jewelry Styles and techniques: Up-cycled, costume, lost wax carving and silver smiting . << BACK TO ARTISTS

2021/06 < Back to Events Écoute pour voir CREDITS: WITH THE SUPPORT OF: