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

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:

This mural was created from a local community initiative, in the context of Jamii's celebration of Indigenous artists, and the St. Lawrence Neighbourhood Association’s 40th Anniversary. Unveiled on June 21, 2023. Community Projects/ MURALS/ MASHKIKI MASHKIKI St Lawrence Community Centre This mural was created from a local community initiative, in the context of Jamii's celebration of Indigenous artists, and the St. Lawrence Neighbourhood Association’s 40th Anniversary. Unveiled on June 21, 2023. ARTISTIC STATEMENT BY DARWIN PETERS, ARTIST FROM PIKANGIKUM FIRST NATION: The turtles represent life from the new to the old, and the journey from the beginning to the end. The turtles also represent the land we live on, where everything grows, flourishes and thrives, like the fish. Not only do the fish provide the food we eat, but they also represent friendship: they come along together, they make mischief together, and they become like family when they are forming a pack. The roots at the bottom of the tree are going in different directions, then they grow stronger, and at the end, the roots become floral. This symbolizes my life: all the struggles I have been through, how I grew stronger from them, and how I found a light through the arts and became the artist I was meant to be. I hope that people can be whoever they want to be and be where they want to be. The birds on the tree branches are watching the sun and then the moon. Every time I go to sleep, I see the moon. Every time I wake up, I see the sun and I am thankful to see yet another day. I wish that everyone can feel gratitude for each new day. Everywhere I look in this community (The Esplanade), I see different faces, races, cultures, languages and religions, and that makes me happy. It shows me how life can be when we are around each other. This is how I represented this community with the birds living in the tree. In the canoe, you can see the thunderbird beings, with their pet fox. The thunderbird in the middle points in the direction where to go next. As a family, they paddle on their journey through life and bring light into their community. I hope I contributed to this community by bringing colours here. When thunderbirds are finished with their work, they bring in other people to see what they’ve made. This is a metaphor for my life as well. The stars represent our ancestors shining bright light on us and they give us directions for the North, South, East and West, so that we can follow each star we see in the sky. The feathers are there for the loved ones we lost too soon and we carry in our hearts. The butterflies can fly wherever they want to be; they are free. Someone from the community also suggested they represent transformation through healing. The three leaves have a meaning of new beginning, new life, and a new chapter starting. June 21, 2023 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. CREDITS: Lead Artist: Darwin Peters Supporting Artists: Andrew Patterson, Kseniya Tsoy Additional Painting Support: Karen Lam, Zenzele Harris Curator: Isorine Marc Co-Producers: Jamii, the St. Lawrence Neighbourhood Association Artistic Inspiration and Contribution: Residents of the St. Lawrence Neighbourhood, students of the Market Lane Public School Special thanks: Suzanne Kavanagh, the Jamii Team, the Jamii Board of Directors and the SLNA Board of Directors Sponsored by: Emblem Developments The St Lawrence Market Neighbourhood BIA Jamii Public Funders: Canada Council for the Arts Toronto Arts Council RBC Foundation Rama Gaming House Approved by the City of Toronto COPYRIGHTS @darwinpeters2023 Contact: info@jamii.ca COMMERCIAL USE FORM

Beginner and Intermediate Friendly Projects INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / SEWING / SEWING A HANDMADE KIMONO SEWING Cycles Workshops Beginner and Intermediate Friendly Projects February 2026 SEWING A HANDMADE KIMONO Wednesday, February 4, 11, 18, and 25 from 7 PM to 9 PM Artist: Diséiye Thompson This sewing workshop series is part of Jamii’s February Cycle and reflects the 2026 theme, It Feels Right . Led by designer Diséiye Thompson, the workshops centre around garment-making as a way to build skill, confidence, and a deeper relationship with clothing made by hand. Participants begin with a review of foundational sewing techniques before working through the creation of a kimono. The project supports learning how to read and follow a pattern, assemble garment pieces, practice straight stitching, and complete clean finishes. Designed to be accessible and hands-on, the workshops support both those new to sewing and those returning to the craft. All materials are provided by Jamii, removing barriers and allowing participants to focus fully on the creative process. These workshops are open to all experience levels. Participants are encouraged to work at their own pace and engage in a way that feels comfortable and supportive. Workshops are free for participants. Registration is required, and space is limited. Support free community arts Jamii’s workshops are offered free so that cost is never a barrier to participation. If you’re able, you can help pay it forward by donating through Jamii’s website . Your support helps keep community arts accessible and welcoming for everyone. Jamii’s February Cycle is sponsored by Canada Council for the Arts, Toronto Arts Council, TD Ready Commitment, Rama Gaming House, and Charitable Gaming. REGISTER NOW Photos by Ghader Bsmar, Anita Boey Photo Credit: Unknown DISEIYE THOMPSON Diséiye Thompson is a Nigerian-born fashion designer and stylist based in Toronto. Her practice is shaped by early experiences tailoring alongside her mother’s seamstress and later formal training in Contemporary Arts at Ryerson University and design studies at the Toronto Academy of Design. Since graduating in 2016, she has presented work at Toronto Fashion Week, Fashion Art Toronto, and Brosche Bridal, and has trained through apprenticeships with Greta Constantine and work with Lea-Ann Belter Bridal. Diséiye also works as a stylist for music videos and live performances, with credits including Aiza, SATE, Ceréna, and DVSN. She has previously facilitated sewing workshops with Jamii through the LAINI Youth program and the Sewing Studio Series fundraiser. UPCOMING DATES Participants must commit to one full month. You must register separately for each workshop session within that month to complete your registration. If we don't receive your registration for each workshops within that month, we will not be able to complete your registration. Wed, Feb 11 February Cycle - Sewing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Feb 11, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sew at your own pace and create a handmade kimono. A four-part sewing series led by Diséiye Thompson. Free with registration. +12 more Wed, Feb 18 February Cycle - Sewing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Feb 18, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sew at your own pace and create a handmade kimono. A four-part sewing series led by Diséiye Thompson. Free with registration. +12 more Wed, Feb 25 February Cycle - Sewing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Feb 25, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sew at your own pace and create a handmade kimono. A four-part sewing series led by Diséiye Thompson. Free with registration. +12 more

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

The Jamii Hub turns into a painting sanctuary once every month on Thursdays! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / VISUAL ARTS / EXPLORING THE CHAKANA - APRIL 2025 CREATING Thursday 7 pm EXPLORING THE CHAKANA April 2025 April 10, 2025 from 7 PM to 9 PM Facilitator: Andre Mandela Lopez Join us on April 10 for an evening of painting and reflection as we explore the rich symbolism of the Chakana, an ancient Andean symbol representing the three realms of existence: Hanan Pacha (Upper World), Kay Pacha (World of the Living), and Uqhu Pacha (Lower World). Led by multidisciplinary visual artist Andre Mandela Lopez, this 2-hour workshop will guide you through the process of creating your own personalized Chakana cross while reflecting on its deeper meaning in your life. Using acrylic paints on wooden canvases, you’ll create a personalized Chakana cross that blends Andean cosmology with your own story while exploring the three realms of the Andean worldview. Through thoughtful prompts, Andre will encourage you to reflect on your unique experiences and their spiritual, earthly, and ancestral significance, translating these reflections into your artwork. In addition, you will gain knowledge about the colour symbolism of the Wiphala flag, learning how its vibrant colors represent life, wisdom, nature, and spirituality. Andre will offer guidance on how to incorporate these colours and symbols into your Chakana cross, helping you bring your creative vision to life. Whether you're adding intricate details or focusing on the cross itself, Andre’s step-by-step support will ensure that everyone can create something meaningful. By the end of this workshop, you’ll have a unique and personalized painting that combines Andean cosmology with your own life’s story, a piece of art that resonates with both spiritual and cultural significance. No prior painting experience is needed; Just bring your creativity and curiosity! 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 Painting workshop is part of Jamii's April cycle, guided by lead artist Carolina Rojas, and centred around the theme of the Chakana—an ancestral Andean symbol representing the connection between the spiritual, earthly, and inner realms. Through these workshops in dancing, painting, crafting, sewing,singing and creative writing, we’ll reflect on how these ancient teachings resonate with our modern lives, connecting us to nature, the cycles of life, and our community. “This is an invitation to reinterpret the meaning of the Chakana, connecting its ancient wisdom with our modern experiences.” – Carolina Rojas. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Afnan Yakot Photo Credit: Unknown Andre Mandela Lopez Andre Mandela Lopez is an Afrolatino multidisciplinary visual artist with Chileno, Peruvian, Mapuche, and Andean roots. His work is deeply influenced by his diverse heritage and focuses on freedom, economic justice, food sovereignty, and radical education reform. Spanning murals, digital illustration, sculpture, and tattoos, Andre uses art to promote healing, play, and connection to one’s inner child. Originally studying political science and engaging in grassroots activism, Andre shifted to art as a tool for social change. He blends activism with creative expression, addressing political and environmental issues through a spiritual, indigenous lens. UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Wed, Mar 04 March Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Mar 04, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Paint on silk using vibrant dyes and traditional techniques. A four-part visual arts workshop led by Janice Garel. Free with registration. Wed, Mar 11 March Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Mar 11, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Paint on silk using vibrant dyes and traditional techniques. A four-part visual arts workshop led by Janice Garel. Free with registration. Wed, Mar 18 March Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Mar 18, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Paint on silk using vibrant dyes and traditional techniques. A four-part visual arts workshop led by Janice Garel. Free with registration. Wed, Mar 25 March Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Mar 25, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Paint on silk using vibrant dyes and traditional techniques. A four-part visual arts workshop led by Janice Garel. Free with registration.

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

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

Beginner and Intermediate Friendly Projects INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / SEWING / TWO-TONE DRESS WITH BELT - NOVEMBER 2024 SEWING Wednesday 7 pm Beginner and Intermediate Friendly Projects November 2024 TWO-TONE DRESS WITH BELT Oct 30 - Nov 6 - 13 - 20, 2024 Artist: Anita Boey Join us in a new series of sewing workshops this November (starting on October 30th as our first session). Our theme for this month is “Return”, which is Lead Artist, Razan Samara’s vision of being away from our homeland, yet remaining steadfast to preserving one's cultures, traditions, and the longing to return to the familiar. Sewing Facilitator, Anita Boey, has designed a Two-Tone Dress with Belt, which showcases the stark contrast between traditional (patterned fabric) and contemporary (black fabric) elements. The wearer expresses a deep desire to preserve their cultural identity and a longing to “return” to their roots. Additionally, the combination of different fabrics and colors pays homage to the traditional practice of intentional mending, historically done to extend the longevity of family heirlooms and costumes. This practice symbolizes a commitment to sustainability and the passing down of garments to future generations. The belt holds the significance of bridging both the traditional and the present together. Join in to create your own customized Two-Tone Dress with Belt. 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 3 meters of fabric (1.5 meters for each side of the dress). Note about Color Harmony: Ensure the colors of the fabrics complement each other well. If the traditional fabric has patterns, the modern fabric should be solid to balance the design. 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 belt. Let's stitch away our Wednesdays together 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! Lesson plan: 1) Wednesday October 30th – Introduction to the theme of “Return”, and how it inspired the design of this Two-Tone Dress with Belt. Participants will choose their fabric, transfer the pattern pieces onto their fabric and cut their fabric. 2) Wednesday November 6th – Sew the front panels and back panels of the dress. 3) Wednesday November 13th – Sew the front to the back of the dress, hemming the neckline, armholes and length of the dress. 4) Wednesday November 20th – Sewing the belt and adding finishing touches to the outfit, and end with a Fashion Show! Sewing participants are highly encouraged to attend November’s “Saturday Mingling” event at Jamii, to show off their Two-Tone Dress with Belt to the rest of the Jamii community! REGISTRATIONS CLOSED Photos by Ghader Bsmar, Anita Boey Photo Credit: Unknown 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 UPCOMING DATES Participants must commit to one full month. You must register separately for each workshop session within that month to complete your registration. If we don't receive your registration for each workshops within that month, we will not be able to complete your registration. Wed, Feb 11 February Cycle - Sewing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Feb 11, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sew at your own pace and create a handmade kimono. A four-part sewing series led by Diséiye Thompson. Free with registration. +12 more Wed, Feb 18 February Cycle - Sewing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Feb 18, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sew at your own pace and create a handmade kimono. A four-part sewing series led by Diséiye Thompson. Free with registration. +12 more Wed, Feb 25 February Cycle - Sewing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Feb 25, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sew at your own pace and create a handmade kimono. A four-part sewing series led by Diséiye Thompson. Free with registration. +12 more

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.

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Brescia Nember Reid Puppetry website Brescia is a queer multifaceted artist and birthworker, with a focus on large-scale shadow puppetry and paper cut-outs. Passionate about community and local arts, Brescia has worked solo and in collaboration on projects with Summerworks Performance Festival, Buddies in Bad Times, Victoria Mata Productions & Aluna Theatre, and more. She/They was one of the minds behind Mudlark, the theatrical shadow puppetry performance Jamii perfermed on December 2023, and described the history of a young girl who seeks a place to call home among the enchanting stories of the Esplanade neighbourhood. << BACK TO ARTISTS

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

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

2018 - 2019 I am Me 2018 - 2019 Click here to find more information about this project

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. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED 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

The Jamii Hub turns into a painting sanctuary once every month on Thursdays! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / VISUAL ARTS / TEKA LANG - OCTOBER 2024 CREATING Thursday 7 pm TEKA LANG October 2024 October 10, 2024 from 7 PM to 9 PM 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 Photo Credit: Unknown 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. UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Wed, Mar 04 March Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Mar 04, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Paint on silk using vibrant dyes and traditional techniques. A four-part visual arts workshop led by Janice Garel. Free with registration. Wed, Mar 11 March Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Mar 11, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Paint on silk using vibrant dyes and traditional techniques. A four-part visual arts workshop led by Janice Garel. Free with registration. Wed, Mar 18 March Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Mar 18, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Paint on silk using vibrant dyes and traditional techniques. A four-part visual arts workshop led by Janice Garel. Free with registration. Wed, Mar 25 March Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Mar 25, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Paint on silk using vibrant dyes and traditional techniques. A four-part visual arts workshop led by Janice Garel. Free with registration.

2019 - present Toronto Waterfront Marathon 2019 - present Cheering Section Every October since 2017, we are cheering for Toronto Waterfront Marathon runners and this electrifying event has become a tradition in our neighbourhood! Click here to find all the information year by year.

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

Page Title REGISTERED CHARITIES Available for registered charities hosting community events. WEEKDAY & WEEKEND Rate (4 hrs): $250 Per Extra Hr: +$50 PERSONAL USE For events like baby showers, birthdays, or gatherings (excl. weddings) WEEKDAY & WEEKEND Rate (4 hrs): $500 Per Extra Hr: +$100 COMMERCIAL BUSINESSES For events generating profit beyond costs (e.g., ticketed or business events) WEEKDAY (MONDAY TO THURSDAY) Rate (4 hrs): $500 Per Extra Hr: +$100 WEEKEND (FRIDAY TO SUNDAY) Rate (4 hrs): $750 Per Extra Hr: +$150 WEDDINGS Applies to all weddings, with weekday and weekend rates. WEEKDAY (MONDAY TO THURSDAY) Rate (4 hrs): $500 Per Extra Hr: +$100 WEEKEND (FRIDAY TO SUNDAY) Rate (4 hrs): $750 Per Extra Hr: +$150 EQUITY-DESERVING GROUPS Reduced rates available; see the Booking Form for eligibility criteria. WEEKDAY & WEEKEND Rate (4 hrs): $250 Per Extra Hr: +$50 PUBLIC HOLIDAY RATES Holiday rates apply on: New Year’s Day, Family Day, Good Friday, Victoria Day, Canada Day, Labour Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year's Eve WEEKDAY & WEEKEND Rate (4 hrs): $750 Per Extra Hr: +$150

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:

The Jamii Hub on The Esplanade is home to sing-along, movement, and visual arts workshops for older adults. Register now to join! Belonging Older Adults INDOOR ACTIVITIES / BELONGING Tuesday Workshops for Older Adults WHEN MOVEMENT | Tuesdays from 10am to 11:15am VISUAL ARTS | Tuesdays from 11:30am to 1pm SING ALONG | Thursdays from 4:45pm to 6pm POTLUCKS | Various Dates OUTINGS | Various Dates WHERE | The Jamii Hub @ 264 The Esplanade AGE GROUP | 55+ FREE ADMISSION | REGISTRATION REQUIRED | NO PREVIOUS EXPERIENCE NEEDED Initially, the Belonging program was created to respond to the isolation that older adults experienced and expressed to the Jamii team during the COVID-19 pandemic. This program has steadily grown since 2020 and is now designed to promote healthy aging, social participation, and a sense of belonging through the arts for older adults across The Esplanade neighbourhood and beyond. Belonging offers year-round movement and visual arts workshops, as well as various short-term programs to accommodate the diverse interests of our community members. These workshops provide opportunities for learning new skills, social interaction, and fostering new friendships. With a regular schedule, Belonging workshops have become something for older adults to look forward to every week. Belonging's programming is defined by our Programming Committee, composed entirely of Belonging's participants. The Committee meets every three weeks for an hour on Thursdays from 10 am to 11 am. Would you like to be a part of the Programming Committee? Send us an email at info@jamii.ca or talk to one of the Jamii staff. We are grateful for the support of the Government of Canada, New Horizons for Seniors Program, as well as the Canada Council for the Arts. Programming is free for all participants. Special thanks to Caroline Co-Op and Woodsworth Co-op for supporting this program and to all the participants who are walking the 5k on October 19th, 2024, to fundraise for this program. You too can support this program with a financial donation. Click here. REGISTER Movement Tuesdays 10am to 11:15am MORE INFO & REGISTER Potlucks Various Dates MORE INFO SOON Visual Arts Tuesdays 11:30am to 1pm MORE INFO & REGISTER Sing-Along Thursdays 5 pm to 6 pm MORE INFO & REGISTER Outings Various Dates MORE INFO

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Edwin Maina Photographer website Edwin Maina is a self-taught photographer who began the skill as a hobby. Photography has become his artistic outlet as a substitute for words to convey the environments he finds himself in and the people he meets. By styling his talents, creating sets and shooting them aims to convey the African culture in a way not explored before through fashion and art photography. Being a painter since he was a child, the merge of his artistic photographic eye and working with professionals in the creative arts industry excites his soul. << BACK TO ARTISTS

The Jamii Hub turns into a painting sanctuary once every month on Thursdays! In February, participants will paint a Northern Brazilian landscape with the lead of Julian Periquet. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / VISUAL ARTS / NORTHERN BRAZIL LANDSCAPE - FEBRUARY 2024 CREATING Thursday 7 pm NORTHERN BRAZIL LANDSCAPE February 2024 February 15, 2024 from 7 PM to 9 PM Facilitator: Julian Periquet In this session, we invite participants to craft a step-by-step painting of a Northern Brazilian landscape. Participants will be learning how to blend with pastels and accompany with acrylic paint. After each session, take home your masterpiece and cherish the memories of a delightful evening at Jamii. No experience is required – just a passion for art and a willingness to explore! REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Afnan Yakot Photo Credit: Unknown Julian Periquet Marc Julian Periquet is a proud Canadian Filipino born and raised in the downtown core neighbourhood, The Esplanade. He established an addiction to the art world at an early age. More so from the encouragement and creative techniques his father Ernesto instilled in him. Many of his weapons of mass creation vary from pencils to pens, markers to charcoal, acrylics to pastels, spray cans and more. Hands on with all purpose materials, Julian doesn't shy away from making an everyday object come to life artistically. New ventures such as live painting and set building have given Julian an opportunity to work with various creatives. Working well under pressure and inviting new challenges will always be an ever growing trait on his journey. Instagram UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Wed, Mar 04 March Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Mar 04, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Paint on silk using vibrant dyes and traditional techniques. A four-part visual arts workshop led by Janice Garel. Free with registration. Wed, Mar 11 March Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Mar 11, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Paint on silk using vibrant dyes and traditional techniques. A four-part visual arts workshop led by Janice Garel. Free with registration. Wed, Mar 18 March Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Mar 18, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Paint on silk using vibrant dyes and traditional techniques. A four-part visual arts workshop led by Janice Garel. Free with registration. Wed, Mar 25 March Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Mar 25, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Paint on silk using vibrant dyes and traditional techniques. A four-part visual arts workshop led by Janice Garel. Free with registration.

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

< 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

OUTDOOR EVENTS / LA BULLE - 2021 La Bulle Aug to Sep 2021 Jamii and Théâtre Français de Toronto co-presented "La Bulle" by CORPUS Aug 31 to Sept 5, 2021 Berkeley Castle Courtyard700 spectators A visually stunning and poetic solo performance from the minds of David Danzon and Carolin Lindner. La Bulle featured a one-of-a-kind bubble tent and its sole inhabitant: Pierrot, the iconic dreamer. Confined together, they live in transparent symbiosis. In this theatrical setting, there is nowhere to hide - an absurd situation, fully exploited with humour by a lucid and lunar Pierrot. La Bulle is nominated for the 2022 Dora Awards by Toronto Alliance of Performing Arts in the categories of "Outstanding Achievement in Design" (Scenic Design: David Danzon and Carolin Lindner) and "Outstanding Production" (CORPUS presented by Théâtre Français de Toronto and Jamii). CREDITS FOR LA BULLE: Conceived, directed and designed by David Danzon & Carolin Lindner (CORPUS) Co-presented with Théâtre français de Toronto and Jamii Performed by David Danzon Costume Design by Françoise Autran ABOUT CORPUS: Co-founded in 1997 by Sylvie Bouchard and artistic director David Danzon, CORPUS is known for its precise and surrealist humour that combines movement with theatrical imagery. CORPUS’ unique and engaging performances are presented in both traditional and unusual locations for large and diverse audiences. A huge thank you to the production team: For CORPUS: Janin Goldman, Paulina Speltz, Jeff Souzy, Deanna Gene. For Théâtre français de Toronto: Karine Ricard, Ghislain Caron, Manuel Verreydt, Sandra-Emily Veilleux, Hadrien Volle. For Jamii: Isorine Marc, Jasmin Linton, DeeAnn Sagar, Cynthia Ruso, Tereka Smith, Ammar Salem, Iris Unlu. For Berkeley Castle: Linda Leistner and Melody Arnold. Supported by PHOTO CREDITS

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:

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

This mural was co-created by artists Jieun Kim, Tina Abdelbasit and 16 local youths in partnership with St Lawerence Market. Community Projects/ MURALS/ ACROSS DIMENSIONS ACROSS DIMENSIONS St Lawrence Market This mural was co-created by artists Jieun Kim, Tina Abdelbasit and 16 local youths in partnership with St Lawerence Market. In July 2025, sixteen youths from The Esplanade neighborhood came together to create a mural at the St. Lawrence Market, under the guidance of established artist Jieun Kim and emerging artist Tina Abdelbasit. The mural, titled Across Dimensions and unveiled on July 19th, explores the theme of living together while coming from different spaces, with our beloved market at the heart of it all, a central gathering place in our shared community. The participants were involved in every step of the process, from the initial design brainstorming to the final unveiling of the mural. ARTIST STATEMENTS: By Participants As young artists from the Esplanade, we came together to imagine a universe that reflects our own - one filled with diversity, beauty, and connections. Our mural, Across Dimensions, is a galaxy where every planet, alien-astronaut, and sparkle represent the people in our neighbourhood. The St. Lawrence Market is at the heart of our mural, just like it’s at the heart of our community. It’s where people meet, share stories, shop, and connect. For many of us, it’s a place of nostalgia - something that’s always been there, holding us all together like gravity in our own local galaxy. Every detail in the mural expresses a part of who we are. From the planet with purple trees that symbolizes our personal growth, to the swan planet that represents beauty and protection, each element was designed by us, with care and imagination. Even the alien with the tentacles at the top of the mural is a symbol - a quiet protector, watching over our cosmic community. We see ourselves as small sparks in the vastness of the universe and together, we shine. By Jieun Kim: This mural is the result of a joyful collaboration with the local youth. Over the course of two weeks, we held workshops to explore what community, diversity, and what shared spaces mean to us. Together, we imagined something playful and unexpected: what if St. Lawrence Market existed in outer space? The design began with simple sketches. Birds representing freedom, planets symbolizing diversity, and the sun and sky as expressions of joy. These ideas grew into a vibrant, imaginative mural that feels like looking through a portal into another world. By Tina Abdelbasit: St. Lawrence market is a source of joy and a symbol of togetherness for the community and this mural is a way for that joy to be reflected. The participants were able to channel their positive memories and associations into the design growing their sense of community pride. Through the process of painting the mural, they were able to share this pride with the rest of the community. Lead Artist: Jieun Kim Supporting Artist: Tina Abdelbasit Jamii Team: Isorine Marc, Iris Unlu, Yusra Yacout, Afnan Yakot, Karen Lam, Tyson Hubschmann Participants - Design : Aéla, Daniela, Dario, Faith, Francesca, Jacqueline, Jada, Kandi, Lisa, Lucky, Maryam, Maya, RuthMarie, Santana, Zélia Participants - Painting : Aéla, Daniela, Dario, Faith, Francesca, Jacqueline, Jada, Kandi, Lisa, Lucky, Maryam, RuthMarie, Santana, Sitara, Suhanna, Zélia FUNDERS: RBC Emerging Artist Canada Council for the Arts Rama Gaming House Charitable Gaming. Toronto Arts Council TD Ready Commitment PARTNERS: St Lawrence Market SPECIAL THANKS: To the generous individuals whose financial contributions helped make it possible for youth to take part in this project. MURAL ARTISTS: Jieun Kim : Jieun Kim, a Korean-born street artist based in Toronto, draws inspiration from Korean folk arts and the natural world to create imagined landscapes in her work. With international exhibitions and a focus on community, she co-founded KJ Bit Collective, fostering collaboration through murals and local street art events. 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. Tinas paintings often draw from her real life or childhood memories and focus on representing human beings beyond what is on the surface. COMMERCIAL USE FORM

The Jamii Hub turns into a painting sanctuary once every month on Thursdays! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / VISUAL ARTS / ANCESTRAL VISIONS - NOVEMBER 2024 CREATING Thursday 7 pm ANCESTRAL VISIONS November 2024 November 7, 2024 from 7 PM to 9 PM Facilitator: Ibrahim Abusitta In this workshop, under the guidance of artist Ibrahim Abusitta, participants will be guided through basic acrylic painting techniques to create a family portrait. Using personal photographs of relatives and ancestors as source material, participants will have opportunities to share and paint their personal stories and memories. Join us for this reflective painting workshop – and bring photos of your relatives and ancestors to explore family portrait techniques with acrylic. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Afnan Yakot, Ghader Bsmar, Hadeal Karrar Photo Credit: Unknown Ibrahim Abusitta Ibrahim Abusitta is a Palestinian-Canadian visual artist who lives and works in Toronto. He graduated from the Fine Art Photography program at OCAD U. After graduating, his practice shifted from photography as he evolved into a self-taught painter. UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Wed, Mar 04 March Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Mar 04, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Paint on silk using vibrant dyes and traditional techniques. A four-part visual arts workshop led by Janice Garel. Free with registration. Wed, Mar 11 March Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Mar 11, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Paint on silk using vibrant dyes and traditional techniques. A four-part visual arts workshop led by Janice Garel. Free with registration. Wed, Mar 18 March Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Mar 18, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Paint on silk using vibrant dyes and traditional techniques. A four-part visual arts workshop led by Janice Garel. Free with registration. Wed, Mar 25 March Cycle - Visual Arts Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Mar 25, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Paint on silk using vibrant dyes and traditional techniques. A four-part visual arts workshop led by Janice Garel. Free with registration.

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Karen Lam Acting, Visual Arts website 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. << BACK TO ARTISTS

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:

The Jamii Hub turns into a crafting sanctuary twice a month on Thursdays! WOOL AND CROCHET - MARCH 2025 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / THURSDAY CREATING / CRAFTING NIGHTS / CREATING Thursday 7 pm Crafting Nights WOOL AND CROCHET March 2025 March 13 - 20, 2025 Facilitator: Seema Anwar, Abi Akinlade & Nyokabi Muchuku WOOL AND PATTERNS OF LIFE Artist: Seema Anwar Thursday, March 13 at 7pm Join us for a cozy evening of creativity, conversation, and connection at this beginner-friendly crafting workshop! Using colourful wool, glue, and canvas, we’ll explore the patterns that shape our lives, lines, textures, and hues that reflect what keeps us grounded. Guided by artist Seema Anwar, the workshop begins with a brief introduction to the techniques, then opens up into a free-flowing space where you can experiment, reflect, and create at your own pace. As you craft your own unique square pattern, you’ll have the chance to express what anchors you, whether it’s memories, people, places, or dreams. This is more than just a hands-on workshop, it’s a moment to slow down, immerse yourself in creative expression, and share in the experience of making alongside others. You’ll leave not only with a piece of art that represents your personal grounding but also with new techniques, fresh inspiration, and warm memories of crafting together. 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. No experience needed, just bring your curiosity, and we'll provide the rest! This workshop will take place on March 13, at 7 p.m. FOR MARCH 13 Please note that the March 13 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. GROUNDING PRACTICE: CROCHET BOOKMARKS Artist: Abi Akinlade & Nyokabi Muchuku Thursday, March 20 at 7pm Crochet has a way of slowing things down, letting your hands find rhythm while your mind settles. In this workshop, Abi and Nyokabi will guide you through the basics of crochet as you create your own handmade bookmark, something small yet meaningful, stitched with intention. Whether you’re new to crochet or have experience with yarn, this session is a space to pause, reflect, and connect, both with the craft and with others. We’ll start with a demonstration, and from there, you’ll have time to explore the process at your own pace, with guidance available along the way. 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. All materials will be provided. Just bring yourself, an open mind, and a willingness to try something new. Spots are limited, register now and join us for an evening of creativity and reflection! This workshop will take place on March 20, at 7 p.m. FOR MARCH 20 Crafting 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 Painting, and Friday Singing. “Through these workshops, we let art and community exchanges guide the discovery of what grounds us, or what we need to find grounding on, and pass this discovery to someone else's journey.” - Sharon Zarita Adhiambo. Photos by 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. Abi Akinlade Abi Akinlade is a multidisciplinary artist based in Toronto, Ontario. She graduated from the University of Toronto in 2023 with an Honours Bachelor of Arts in English and Drama. As a creative, she has experience in acting, writing, makeup artistry, and, most recently, fibre artistry. Represented by AMI Talent Agency, she has performed in both film and theatre productions, worked as the Web Marketing Coordinator for Driftwood Theatre, and is currently a freelance writer for She Does The City . She is honoured to have co-founded Crochet Gardens with Nyokabi Muchuku and is passionate about exploring the connectivity and synthesis between various art forms. Nyokabi Muchuku Nyokabi Muchuku is an artist passionate about self-expression, exploring creativity through braiding, crochet, and dance. She thrives in spaces that foster connection, creation, and inspiration. A 4th-year Human Biology student at the University of Toronto, with minors in Anthropology and Immunology, she seeks to merge her scientific curiosity with her artistic spirit, always striving to uplift those around her. Photo Credit: Unknown

INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY CELEBRATIONS / 2020 INDIGENOUS PEOPLES DAY Jamii's Annual Celebrations 2020 - 2nd Year! 2nd Annual National Indigenous Peoples Day Celebrations June 21, 2020 David Crombie Park On June 21st, it was our deepest honour to celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day in David Crombie Park. We were blessed with drumming, singing and dancing by Blackfoot Standing, Michele Perpaul, Bri Briskool Marie, Nimkii Osawamick, Danny Mckenna, and Maria Bonaparte. We are grateful for a beautiful audience to celebrate with us, and glad everyone kept their physical distances with one another. The event was co-presented with Canadian Stage and supported by Ontario Arts Council and Canada Council for the Arts. Photos by Gillian Mapp

DRUMMING AND FILMING LOCAL STORIES BARAZA / BARAZA PIKANGIKUM / BARAZA Pikangikum First Nation Jamii's 7th Visit to Pikangikum 2025 DRUMMING AND VIDEO PORTRAITS III From Toronto to Pikangikum First Nation In October 2025, Jamii embarked on its seventh visit to Pikangikum First Nation since the beginning of this relationship in 2018. Located in Northern Ontario, Pikangikum is a remote fly-in community of about 4,000 people. Rich in natural beauty, cultural heritage, and strong family bonds, Pikangikum also faces challenges related to infrastructure, access to basic needs, and youth well-being. Each visit to Pikangikum is part of Jamii’s long-term commitment to building bridges through art - creating space for connection, cultural exchange, and shared creativity between communities. This year’s project brought together three Toronto-based artists Isorine Marc, Jamii’s Alchemist and project lead, Aline Morales, musician and singer, and Ana Maria Higuera, photographer and videographer. Together, they traveled from Toronto - through Thunder Bay and Sioux Lookout - to Pikangikum, where they spent 9 days at the Eeenchokay Birchstick School, working closely with students, teachers, and community members. Part 1: Music Workshops and Community Performance Under the guidance of musician Aline Morales, Grades 6, 7 and 8 students participated in daily drumming workshops. These sessions introduced them to Brazilian rhythms. Approximately 235 students participated in music initiation workshops - 11 of them all together! The week culminated in a community performance, where the students proudly shared their music with their families and peers. It was such a successful engagement that the school has reinvited Jamii to continue this project in February 2026 and dive further in the learning, focusing intensively on 5 classrooms who will do daily sessions and a performance for the entire school! Part 2: Video Portrait Series In 2022, community members shared that recordings of Elders’ stories were tragically lost in a fire. Jamii’s video portraits series have become a way to rebuild that archive - capturing the voices, languages, and histories of Pikangikum Elders for current and future generations. As such, alongside the music workshops, videographer Ana Maria Higuera and Jamii's Alchemist Isorine Marc continued Jamii’s ongoing Video Portrait Series. The portraits feature Elders, community leaders, and artists, allowing them to share their voices and experiences. This year, the 5 new portraits are capturing beautiful stories: Lloyd Quill shares his experience of residential school and the teachings of the land. Michaela Peters-Turtle tells us about the joy she finds in life in Pikangikum and the support her school provides as she navigates health challenges as a high schooler. Eddie Quill, an Elder, speaks passionately about the importance of keeping the language alive for the younger generation. Valerie Strang, the first graduate in Pikangikum of the Personal Support Worker program, shares her experience working at the Elders’ Home. And McDonald Turtle, from the Pikangikum Education Authority, reflects on the community’s progress over the years and the ongoing need for more housing for the next generation. A work-in-progress screening took place at the end of our visit, and final videos will be released online later in the year. Since the project’s inception, these portraits have collectively reached over 20,000 views on Facebook - the community’s main communication platform - reflecting their deep local impact. Impact and Reflections For students in Pikangikum, the workshops offered opportunities to express themselves through rhythm, movement, and teamwork - building self-esteem and joy through creative collaboration. For Toronto-based artists, the experience provided a transformative exchange - deepening their understanding of Indigenous realities and reinforcing the importance of respectful, long-term relationships between communities. This project continues to demonstrate how art can bridge distances - geographically, culturally, and emotionally - and create shared spaces for storytelling, learning, and connection. Acknowledgements This project is made possible through the generous support of the Ontario Arts Council, the JP Bickell Foundation, and Jamii’s private donors. Our deepest gratitude goes to the Eeenchokay Birchstick School and PIkangikum Education Authority for their partnership, hospitality, and trust, and to the Pikangikum community for welcoming us into their homes once again. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / THURSDAY CREATING / CRAFTING NIGHTS / Photos by Isorine Marc

INDOOR ACTIVITIES / LAINI / AROUND THE WORLD LAINI Youth Wednesday & Thursday After School A Jamii initiative to encourage girls and young women to explore art and leadership! AROUND THE WORLD May to August 2021 - Ages: 16-25 yrs old Led by Paulina O'Kieffe Anthony In partnership with Soulpepper Theatre, young women were able to meet weekly over the Summer to listen together to a series of audio plays with lead artist Paulina O'Kieffe-Anthony facilitating conversations around the themes of each of the audio plays. To learn more about their project, visit: jamii.ca/illuminatedperspectives Paulina O’Kieffe-Anthony is an award winning writer, performer, producer, arts educator and community advocate.  She is a 2x SLAM Poetry Nationals finalist, Tedx speaker and is regularly featured at When Sister's Speak.

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

< 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

OUTDOOR EVENTS / DRAG QUEEN STORY TIME - 2019 Drag Queen Story Time July 2019 David Crombie Park Location: David Crombie Park Jamii and the Toronto Public Library St. Lawrence Branch joined forces on July 10th, 2019 to co-present a fabulous event for children of all ages! More than 150 people joined us for a very special story time with drag queens Atmos Fierce and Lucinda Miu; Face painting with our local artist Linda Epp; live music with Sergio Xocoloate; stilt walking with SoCirc; and last but not least, crafts with Parent Resource Early ON Centre! PHOTO CREDITS

OUTDOOR EVENTS / ITINERANT PERFORMANCES - 2020 Itinerant performances 2020 As you may guess, since 2020, COVID-19 has shaken Jamii to its core values by greatly limiting social connection. At Jamii, we believe it is our social responsibility to care for our community during such extraordinary times. With the intent of keeping our social cohesion vibrant and contribute to our neighbours' mental health, Jamii continues to offer a series of free live performances to your doorstep. In the Spring of 2020, Jamii’s mobile theatre, the Kisanii Hub, traveled the residential streets of The Esplanade neighbourhood in the early evening, while delivering a musical performances. March 30th: Domanique Grant April 1: Leen Hamo & Iman Abdul Razzak - co-presented with Canadian Stage April 3: Jeremiah Sparks - co-presented with Soulpepper Theatre Company April 6: Sara Luey April 21: Johnny Toronto April 23: Alessandro Montelli - co-presented with Canadian Stage May 3rd: Jeremiah Sparks - co-presented with Canadian Stage, in partnership with Building Roots May 13th: Lua Shayenne & Cece Haba - co-presented with Canadian Stage, sponsored by RBC May 20th: Arlene Paculan - co-presented with Canadian Stage, sponsored by RBC June 4th: Cleon Wong, Ayelen Liberona, Malavika Santhosh, Ekaterina - co-presented with Canadian Stage, sponsored by RBC No outside gatherings took place during these performances, as neighbours were encouraged to watch from their home windows, balconies, doorsteps or front yard. The Kisanii Hub rode by at a slow pace for all to enjoy the magic of music, while celebrating the importance of staying home during these extraordinary times, practicing physical distancing and slowing down the spread of COVID-19. However, people were encouraged to make some noise as we passed by. We hoped to uplift the spirits and contribute to better mental health for us all as we face the challenges of social isolation. Back then, we believed that such live itinerant performances had the potential to trigger a wide range of heartening emotions, encouraging a sense of community while generally letting people know that we were here for each other. We could not cover every single streets of our community, but we are always trying our best to cover as many as possible. Keep an ear out for musical magic happening in your street! The Kisanii Hub was produced in 2019 by Jamii. Jamii is grateful for the support of the diverse organization who contributed to bring this project to life: Canadian Heritage - financial support Canada Council for the Arts - financial support Laneway Project - financial support Charlie Freewheels - cargo bike donation St Lawrence Market BIA - financial support St Lawrence Neighbourhood Association - financial support A special thank you to all those who contributed to make this project possible, including: Isorine Marc - Original Idea (first as a Roulotte (2014), then Caboose (2015) then Kisanii Hub (2018)) Jacque Fortier - Original Concept Caboose CORPUS Dance Projects - Co-production for the Original Concept as a Caboose Arnaud Vidal - Contribution to original design for the Kisanii Hub Raji Aujla - Consulting for the Kisanii Hub Gurpreet Ghana - Consulting for the Kisanii Hub Arthur Klimowicz - Consulting for the Kisanii Hub Fred Dilkes - Consulting for the Kisanii Hub Vindent's Custom Ebikes & Batteries - Building of the bike trailer & install of e-power for the Kisanii Hub Andrew Patterson - Artwork for both cargo and trailer for the Kisanii Hub Jamii is grateful for the financial support of the St Lawrence Neighbourhood Association who supports visibility for artists local to the St Lawrence Neighbourhood. Jamii is honored to be co-presenting some of seven performances with Canadian Stage , our local theatre. Jamii is proud to have RBC as a sponsor for three of these performances. Supported by PHOTO CREDITS

Beginner and Intermediate Friendly Projects INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / 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 Photo Credit: Unknown 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 UPCOMING DATES Participants must commit to one full month. You must register separately for each workshop session within that month to complete your registration. If we don't receive your registration for each workshops within that month, we will not be able to complete your registration. Wed, Feb 11 February Cycle - Sewing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Feb 11, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sew at your own pace and create a handmade kimono. A four-part sewing series led by Diséiye Thompson. Free with registration. +12 more Wed, Feb 18 February Cycle - Sewing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Feb 18, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sew at your own pace and create a handmade kimono. A four-part sewing series led by Diséiye Thompson. Free with registration. +12 more Wed, Feb 25 February Cycle - Sewing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Feb 25, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sew at your own pace and create a handmade kimono. A four-part sewing series led by Diséiye Thompson. Free with registration. +12 more

Beginner and Intermediate Friendly Projects INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / 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 Photo Credit: Unknown 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. UPCOMING DATES Participants must commit to one full month. You must register separately for each workshop session within that month to complete your registration. If we don't receive your registration for each workshops within that month, we will not be able to complete your registration. Wed, Feb 11 February Cycle - Sewing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Feb 11, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sew at your own pace and create a handmade kimono. A four-part sewing series led by Diséiye Thompson. Free with registration. +12 more Wed, Feb 18 February Cycle - Sewing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Feb 18, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sew at your own pace and create a handmade kimono. A four-part sewing series led by Diséiye Thompson. Free with registration. +12 more Wed, Feb 25 February Cycle - Sewing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Feb 25, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sew at your own pace and create a handmade kimono. A four-part sewing series led by Diséiye Thompson. Free with registration. +12 more

2020 < Back to Events Wind Stories CREDITS: WITH THE SUPPORT OF:

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Darwin Peters Painter website 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. << BACK TO ARTISTS

< 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

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. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Afnan Yakot 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

OUTDOOR EVENTS / TO MY PAST, PRESENT, AND FUTURE - 2023 To My Past Present and Future July 2023 On July 27th to 29th, 2023 Jamii invited audiences to experience "To My Past, Present and Future" - a multidisciplinary solo exploration by Nickeshia Garrick. This series of evenings in the park with live music and dance were an invitation to explore our sense of identity through our journeys. Leading up to the performances, Nickeshia led a series of workshops on breathwork, clay pottery, and creative writing at The Jamii Hub. This was the perfect way to wholistically enrich audiences' experience before they enjoyed Nickeshia’s dance performance in the park. 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 and is a Movement Teacher at the Toronto Film School. CREDITS: Choreographer & Performer: Nickeshia Garrick Workshop Lead: Nickeshia Garrick Music performers: Kazdoura Band, Zaynab Wilson Supported By: PHOTO CREDITS

A weekly confidence-building program where girls and non-binary youth explore self-love, media literacy, friendship, and more through hands-on activities led by trained BeaYOUtiful mentors. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / LAINI / BeaYOUtiful: SIX-WEEK CONFIDENCE PROGRAM LAINI Youth After School A Jamii initiative to encourage girls and young women to explore art and leadership! BeaYOUtiful: SIX-WEEK CONFIDENCE PROGRAM Feb to Mar 2026 - Ages 8-12 Led by BeaYOUtiful Foundation Jamii is proud to partner with the BeaYOUtiful Foundation to offer a Six-Week Confidence Building Program for girls and non-binary youth ages 8–12 in The Esplanade community. This free program provides a beautiful opportunity for young people to connect weekly with caring mentors while exploring essential topics such as self-love, confidence, media literacy, friendship, and goal-setting. Through guided discussions, creative crafts, movement, and fun interactive activities, participants will develop a stronger sense of self-worth and confidence. The program is designed to inspire young people to recognize their value, embrace their individuality, and build meaningful connections within a safe and supportive community. Each session led by BeaYOUtiful mentors blends conversation with hands-on activities in a safe, inclusive, and inspiring space. Activities may include creative arts and crafts, worksheets, movement, role-play, and group dialogue. Saturdays | 11:00 AM – 12:30 PM EST Saturday, February 7 Saturday, February 14 Saturday, February 21 Saturday, February 28 Saturday, March 7 Saturday, March 14 IMPORTANT INFORMATION: While you are only required to register for the session on February 7, participants are expected to join all six sessions on February 7, 14, 21, 28, March 7 and 14. If you register for the session on February 7, you do not need to register again for the sessions on February 14, 21, 28, March 7 and 14. New registrations will not be accepted throughout the program. We expect a high number of registrations, so please let us know immediately via email at info@jamii.ca before Friday, January 30 at 12 PM if you foresee that your child not be able to join all six sessions, so another participant from the waitlist can take your spot. We apologize if the workshop is filled before you register. SIX-WEEK PROGRAM BREAKDOWN Week 1: Confidence & Self-Esteem Main Activity: Creating Affirmation Bracelets Week 2: Media Literacy – “Seeing Beyond the Surface” Main Activity: Cyber Safety Worksheet Week 3: Friendship Exploring healthy friendships and navigating conflict Main Activity: Role-Play Friendship Scenarios Week 4: Positive Body Image Main Activity: Creating & Decorating Body Positivity Affirmation Cards Week 5: Growth Mindset & Goal-Setting Main Activity: Creating Dream Boards Week 6: Sisterhood & Safe Spaces Main Activity: Creating & Decorating Self-Love Gratitude Letters Program Development & Support This program was co-created by Laurie Joy, Parent Coach and Early Childhood Educator with over 20 years of experience supporting families and youth ages 1–14. The curriculum was reviewed by Shaiya Nagur, a BC-based Social Worker, prior to launch. About the BeaYOUtiful Foundation The BeaYOUtiful Foundation is a registered Canadian charity dedicated to empowering female and non-binary children and youth ages 8–12 through free confidence-building and positive body image programs. Through mentorship and community engagement, BeaYOUtiful creates safe, inclusive spaces where young people can develop self-worth, resilience, and lasting friendships. Learn more: https://thebeayoutifulfoundation.com/our-story/

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Tugce Alemdar Visual Artist website Tugce was born in Istanbul, Turkey. She has studied philosophy at Istanbul University, then she has done her master’s in philosophy of art at Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University. She has always interested in visual arts but she professionally started while she was doing her master’s degree. She always finds art as a way of exposing absurdity of the system that we live in. This is why she makes satires by drawing herself criticizing her life and social issues. She also makes abstract paintings regarding existence and its heaviness. She is currently studying Psychology at York University, and planning to do her master’s in Social Work. << BACK TO ARTISTS