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

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

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Ayelen Liberona Dancer, filmmaker website Ayelen Liberona is a multifaceted dancer, filmmaker, culture maker and community weaver. She is the co-founder of The Wandering Eye, where she creates award winning films and site-specific experiences as powerful tools for transformation and social justice. She is also the co-founder/director of Becoming Praxis, an organization committed to developing Open Source Ritual Architectures and Pedagogies that re-story our relationship to land and to each other. << BACK TO ARTISTS

Visual artist Saira Ansari guided participants in the creation of a collective fabric collage to be created and gifted to the Pikangikum community. This is part of a continued community sharing process between residents of the Esplanade, and those in Pikangikum First Nation in Northern Ontario. Live at the Kisanii Hub As part of In Partnership with September 23 to September 25, 2022 David Crombie Park | The Esplanade & Berkeley St Video by Laura Dittman “Live at the Kisanii Hub” brought arts to The Esplanade as a part of the Ontario Culture Days Regional Hub Program and made The Esplanade Toronto Downtown's only festival hub in 2022! The event, “What We Remember” , invited the audience to explore the perception of time and its impact on remembrance. From our busy and meticulously scheduled lives, to timeless ancestral storytelling, this event managed to entertain the whole family! “What We Remember”, hosted by Maysam Ghani, featured acrobatic performance by Eman Hillawi, storytelling by Indigenous grand-mother Kim Wheatley, captivating drums by Njacko Backo, live music by Waleed Abdulhamid, face painting by Linda Epp, painting exhibition by Darwin Peters, an indigenous emerging artist/painter from Pikangikum. With "What We Remember", we also dived deep into our individual memories tied to The Esplanade to nurture our connection to our community! Esplanadians took the mic and shared a memory of the Esplanade from their past. As one of the remembrance aspects of the event, we had a craft table with postcards and everybody will be encouraged to write a piece for a beloved one and mail it following the event. At the end of the day, we are all about what we remember! We thank all Esplanadians who joined us on this rainy weekend for a whirlwind of unforgettable performances between September 23 and September 25 from 5pm to 7pm in David Crombie Park! "Live at The Kisanii Hub as part of ON Culture Days" on Media "Live at The Kisanii Hub as part of ON Culture Days" was highlighted on the October 2022 issue of a local newspaper, The Bridge , with an article written by Ignazio Colt Nicastro. Credits Aerialist: Eman Hillawi Musician: Njacko Backo Musician: Waleed Abdulhamid Storyteller: Kim Wheatley Face Painting: Linda Epp Host: Maysam Ghani and community members to share their memories of The Esplanade! Organized by Jamii Team: Afnan Yakot, Iris Unlu, Isorine Marc, Jonelle Sills, Nadifa Daud Mohamed, Yusra Yacout Event Videographer: Laura Dittman Event Photographer: Anushay Sheikh Acts of Remembrance on The Esplanade Author: Ignazio Colt Nicastro It was only the second day of fall, yet the cool breeze of the season had already swept through the city. As I stepped off the street car and bared autumns chill, my ears picked up on a nearby celebration just a few blocks away. Like a siren’s call, the rhythmic beating of Njacko Backo’s drum lured me over to ‘What We Remember,’ an event presented by Jamii as part of ON Culture Days, where I found numerous community members playing music together. Throughout the night, visitors used storytelling, music, and art, to consider diverse acts of commemoration. Taking place within The Esplanade, there was a degree of care put towards celebrating and honouring the history of this Toronto street. Historically, The Esplanade reflected the meaning of its name: a wide-open space near a body of water. However, through time the physicality of this Toronto strip changed. To remind us of that, postcards featuring archival images of The Esplanade were laid out. Each postcard was an invitation for a memory or personal message to be shared with loved ones across the world. To further the acts of remembrance, local Esplanadians were invited to share memories of their life in The Esplanade. More stories were then shared by Kim Wheatley, an Ojibwe Anishinaabe Grandmother, who first welcomed us into the space with a smudging ceremony. Together we sat around the fountain listening to Wheatley’s stories and songs as the water behind us gushed gracefully. The space also hosted Darwin Peters, a Pikangikum First Nation emerging artist. His traditional Woodlands inspired work was vibrant, alluring pedestrians in off the sidewalk and into the festival of remembrance. As the event came to a close and everything was packed back into the Kisanii Hub, we could only wonder where this travelling cart might end up later this year. At least for today we were left with a new memory of The Esplanade to hold onto. Photos by Anushay Sheikh Eman Hillawi, Aerialist Eman is an award winning performer and professional aerialist based in Toronto, she is the founder of Dancing in Circles: Aerial Dance Studio, and co-founder at CirQular Motion (focussing on rehab and conditioning for circus artists and dancers). She works as an actress, dancer, aerialist and model for companies such as Paramount, LG, the CEBL,Samsung and much more! Eman discovered aerial arts in 2016 and was hooked immediately. She specializes in bar apparatus' such as aerial hoop, lollipop lyra and pole. Check out Eman on Instagram Waleed Abdulhamid, Musician Waleed is a Canadian Multi-instrumentalist; Composer; Vocalist; Music and Film Producer, known for his striking vocals, innovative bass technique, and his speed and precision on percussion. He has been an active member of the Toronto music scene since his arrival, in 1991 from Sudan, where he began to perform as early as six years old. He is the recipient of the Canadian New Pioneer Award; African Tama Award; Reel World Film Festival Award and Canadian Film Board of Excellence Award. In addition, he has not only received other international awards, but was also twice honoured with a DORA Award. Check out Waleed on Instagram Njacko Backo, Musician Juno-nominated Njacko Backo is a storyteller, songwriter, singer, musician and composer who has been performing for children and adults since his childhood in Cameroon. He has a lifetime of practice in capturing the subtlety of storytelling and dance with his music – an essential part of the African performing arts. His programs for children and youth draw on parallels and differences between Canadian and African family life while introducing a passion for the French language. Check out Njacko on Instagram Kim Wheatley, Storyteller Kim is Anishinaabe Ojibway from Shawanaga First Nations located in Georgian Bay Ontario. She is a multi award winning speaker, presenter, author, ceremonial practitioner, singer & handdrummer. Darwin Peters, Painter Darwin is a painter based in Pikangikum First Nation, a community in Northern Ontario. His paintings combine traditional Woodlands art techniques with his own personal experiences and stories. As a result, his subject matter ranges from personal storytelling to pop culture references. When he is not painting, Darwin works at the Eenchokay Birchstick school as a tutor escort to support the young generation of Pikangikum. Linda Epp, Face Painter Linda is a face painter for approximately 10 years. Her story with face painting began with her two children went out for Halloween one year when they were quite young. She went and bought some terrible (non FDA approved) paint at the dollar store and thought she could magically transform them. She later figured out that it didn’t quite work out that way, but she fell in love with the art of face painting. She has since honed her skills with workshops and many hours of practice. Linda has worked with many organizations such as the St. Lawrence BIA, Jamii, long term care facilities, local festivals and private birthday parties. Caring Connections 2021 In partnership with Ontario Culture Days Caring Connections: From my heart to yours FREE workshops & live musical/dance performances Friday Sept 24 to Sunday Sept 26, 2021 David Crombie Park - Esplanade & George St South CREATIVE WORKSHOPS: Visual artist Saira Ansari guided participants in the creation of a collective fabric collage to be gifted to the Pikangikum community. This is part of a continued community sharing process between residents of the Esplanade, and those in Pikangikum First Nation in Northern Ontario. LIVE MUSIC Creative workshops were accompanied by live music with amazing artists: Lauren Barnett, Veronica Lee, Tangi Lion, Jerusa Leao, Katy Moonbean and Beny Esguerra. LIVE DANCE PERFORMANCE Jamii was delighted to present “Two x 30”, a contemporary dance/live art performance directed by Michael Caldwell. Two x 30 explores the inextricable link between our collective and unconscious patterns of movement and our environment. Director: Michael Caldwell Sound Designer and Composer: Robbie Grunwald Creative Collaborators and Performers: Pulga Muchochoma, Roberto Soria, Heidi Strauss Production and Stage Managers: Helin Gungoren, A.J. Morra Photos by Jae Yang I am me. I am mighty. 2019 In partnership with Ontario Culture Days & Toronto Public Library - St Lawrence Branch "I am me. I am mighty." was a celebration of culture as a thread that weaves our community together. FREE workshops & live music September 2019 Toronto Public Library - St Lawrence Branch Activities included crafting led by May Massijeh; live music by Arlene Paculan and Aline Morales; drawing workshop with Connie Wang; live portraits drawing by Alison Garwood ;and story times by Sharon McMillan, St Lawrence Library and Parent Resources EarlyON CFC staff.

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

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

OUTDOOR EVENTS / FLAMENCO ON THE ESPLANADE - 2023 Flamenco on The Esplanade September 2023 On Sept 29th and 30th, Jamii, in collaboration with FabCollab and artistic director Tamar Ilana, transformed David Crombie Park as a stage for a powerful flamenco experience. The show showcased a brilliant cast of 8 performers (singers, dancers and musicians), who transported the audience in the Flamenco world: Tamar Ilana , Shirlita La Pili, Alison McDonald, Nicolás Hernández, Chendy León, Ana Lía and Lia Grainger gave us their best and we were energized by their passion on stage and captivating performances. A memorable evening on The Esplanade. During the few weeks leading up to the event, brave Esplanadians took flamenco classes (both singing “Cante” and dancing) with artists Alison Macdonald and Shirlita Pili, who are part of the FabCollab collective, with the intent to perform at the show, alongside professional artists. Trust us, this was not an easy thing to do - and they did more than amazing!!! Flamenco looks like a difficult practice: well, it’s more difficult than what it looks like.The rhythm is different than standards ways of counting, coordination is central, so is character and determination. We are very proud for this group who jumped on the train and didn’t give up. The classes led to a public performance, and they displayed, with grace, their hard work to an audience of 500 (total over 4 performances!). It takes bravery and strength to go on stage like this, and geez, they did amazing. CREDITS: Featuring FabCollab Artistic Director: Tamar Ilana Flamenco Guitar: Nicolás Hernández Singer: Ana Lía Dancer: Rocío Conde Dancer: Lia Grainger Percussion: Chendy León Singer and workshop teacher: Shirlita La Pili Dancer and workshop teacher: Alison McDonald Supported By: PHOTO CREDITS

2023/09 < Back to Events Flamenco on The Esplanade Live Event - Dance Sept 29 & 30, 2023 David Crombie Park (The Esplanade & Berkeley St) On Sept 29th and 30th, Jamii, in collaboration with FabCollab and artistic director Tamar Ilana, transformed David Crombie Park as a stage for a powerful flamenco experience. The show showcased a brilliant cast of 8 performers (singers, dancers and musicians), who transported the audience in the Flamenco world: Tamar Ilana , Shirlita La Pili, Alison McDonald, Nicolás Hernández, Chendy León, Ana Lía and Lia Grainger gave us their best and we were energized by their passion on stage and captivating performances. A memorable evening on The Esplanade. During the few weeks leading up to the event, brave Esplanadians took flamenco classes (both singing “Cante” and dancing) with artists Alison Macdonald and Shirlita Pili, who are part of the FabCollab collective, with the intent to perform at the show, alongside professional artists. Trust us, this was not an easy thing to do - and they did more than amazing!!! Flamenco looks like a difficult practice: well, it’s more difficult than what it looks like.The rhythm is different than standards ways of counting, coordination is central, so is character and determination. We are very proud for this group who jumped on the train and didn’t give up. The classes led to a public performance, and they displayed, with grace, their hard work to an audience of 500 (total over 4 performances!). It takes bravery and strength to go on stage like this, and geez, they did amazing. CREDITS: CREDITS: Featuring FabCollab Artistic Director: Tamar Ilana Flamenco Guitar: Nicolás Hernández Singer: Ana Lía Dancer: Rocío Conde Dancer: Lia Grainger Percussion: Chendy León Singer and workshop teacher: Shirlita La Pili Dancer and workshop teacher: Alison McDonald WITH THE SUPPORT OF:

< Back Rimbala Workshops for Seniors Rimbala combines music with fun movement activities to help seniors improve mobility and memory. Tuesdays - FROM MARCH 1st to APRIL 5th. 9:30am to 10:30am OR 11am to 12noon St Lawrence Community Recreation Centre (Toronto) 2022 - MARCH 1 and APRIL 5 Funded by Jamii. Do you worry about falling – especially during this in-between season? Have you noticed that your movements are becoming more difficult as you age? Are you concerned that risk of memory loss may spoil your golden years? If yes, then Rimbala workshops might be for you, and Jamii is offering them for FREE! Rimbala combines live, improvised music with simple and fun movement activities to help seniors improve balance, mobility and memory. Similar programs in Europe have been scientifically proven to reduce the risk of falls by 54%! Scientists are also researching how these programs are effective in the prevention and control of Alzheimer’s disease. Rimbala has been developed by Dr. Daniel Rubinoff, PhD, Music Director at Jubilee United Church in Toronto and a professional performer, composer and teacher. Daniel has performed as a soloist and chamber musician in France, Canada and the United States, and his saxophone recordings have received airplay and acclaim on CBC Radio and in the American Record Guide. WORKSHOPS ARE FREE EVERY TUESDAY FROM MARCH 1st to APRIL 5th. 1st group: 9:30am to 10:30am 2nd group: 11am to 12noon At the St Lawrence Community Recreation Centre (230 The Esplanade, Toronto) SPACE IS LIMITED TO 12 PARTICIPANTS PER GROUP. Register now. To register, click below: http://www.jamii.ca/register

INDOOR ACTIVITIES / SPECIAL EVENTS / JAMII'S BINGO NIGHT SPECIAL EVENTS Fundraising Play hard, FUN'draise harder! JAMII'S BINGO NIGHT January 17, 2026 - 6pm Ready for our now-traditional Bingo Night? This time, it’s the French Edition – oui oui! 🇫🇷 WHEN | Saturday, January 17 from 6pm to 8pm WHERE | The Jamii Hub (264 The Esplanade) Jamii's Alchemist Isorine is thrilled to host her second bingo night, and this one is especially close to her heart. With a French theme, she’ll feel at home - and we hope you will too! We’ve lined up four très français prizes that will let you smell, taste, and feel France. Pourquoi pas? Think wine in all its forms (red, rosé, and white), lavender-scented soaps, and delicious confits (duck, onion, and olive). Full details below! The evening promises fun, laughter, community vibes, and maybe even a mini French lesson - just because. You won’t want to miss this one! Bring your friends, neighbours, and family, even more so since our bingo nights are fundraisers supporting Jamii’s free community programming. And as if that weren’t enough, catered food will be available for $10 per plate. Are you in? We’re counting on you and can’t wait to play. Get your “tickets,” choose how many bingo cards you’d like, book your spot, bring your lucky charm, and let the games begin! 🎉 Players must be over 18 years old. * Every ticket sold helps fund Jamii’s free arts programs , so while you play, you’re also giving back to your neighbours and our shared community. IMPORTANT: Everyone attending must have their own ticket. Each ticket includes one Bingo card, and you can buy more cards online or at the event using cash, debit, or credit. *Players and winners must be 18 or older due to City of Toronto by-law. Youth and children under 18 are welcome but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. PRIZE 1: Bouteille de vin rouge de Chevalier de Fauvert des Pays d’Oc – Merlot 2023 (Red wine Chevalier de Fauvert from Pays d’Oc – Merlot 2023) Boîte de 380g de Gésiers de Canard Confits Entiers, Gastonomie Auguste Fontanié (380 g can of Whole Confit Duck Gizzards, Gastronomy Auguste Fontanié) Assortiment de Fleurs de Lavande et Lavandin ; Créme mains avec huiles essentielles Lavande de Provence, huile essentielle de lavande et savon de lavande, le tout de chez Esprit Provence. (Assortment of Lavender and Lavandin Flowers; hand cream with Provence lavender essential oils, lavender essential oil, and lavender soap, all from Esprit Provence.) PRIZE 2: Bouteille de vin blanc de Chebalier de Fauvert des Pays d’Oc – Comté Tolosan 2024 (Bottle of white wine Chevalier de Fauvert from Pays d’Oc – Comté Tolosan 2024) Pot de 90g de confit d’oignon aux olives noires des Baronnies, de chez Oliverie des Baronnies (90 g jar of onion confit with black olives from the Baronnies, by Oliverie des Baronnies) Pot de 200g de confit d’olive au gingembre, de chez Oliverie des Baronnies (200 g jar of olive confit with ginger, by Oliverie des Baronnies) Savon de Marseille à l’huyile d’olive de chez Marius Fabre savonnier depuis 1900 (Marseille soap with olive oil, by Marius Fabre, soap maker since 1900) PRIZE 3 : Bouteille de vin rouge de Chevalier de Fauvert des Pays d’Oc – Merlot 2023 (Red wine Chevalier de Fauvert from Pays d’Oc – Merlot 2023) Pot de 310g de tapenade aux olives noires de L’Oli d’Oc (310 g jar of black olive tapenade from L’Oli d’Oc) Savon végétal à la Lavande et à l’huile d’olive de chez Moulin des Senteurs (Vegetable soap with lavender and olive oil from Moulin des Senteurs) Savon végétal à l’huile d’olive de chez Moulin des Senteurs (Vegetable soap with olive oil from Moulin des Senteurs) PRIZE 4: Bouteille de vin rosé de Chevalier de Fauvert des Pays d’Oc – Ginsault-Grenache Rosé 2024 (Rosé wine Chevalier de Fauvert from Pays d’Oc – Cinsault–Grenache Rosé 2024) Bouteille d’huile d’olive vierge extra de 250ml de chez Huilerie Confiserie (250 ml bottle of extra virgin olive oil from Huilerie Confiserie) Assortiment de 3 savons parfumés à la lavande, rose et fleurs d’olivier de chez Esprit de Provence (Assortment of 3 scented soaps with lavender, rose, and olive blossom from Esprit de Provence) Refund and Cancellation Policy All admission tickets and bingo cards are non-refundable. If you can’t make it, feel free to pass your ticket on to a friend or family member—or consider it a donation to Jamii. If you purchased more than one ticket and choose not to attend, we’re happy to provide a charitable tax receipt for your donation. Please contact us at info@jamii.ca by January 10. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) Do admission tickets come with Bingo cards? Yes. Each admission ticket comes with 1 Bingo card. Can I buy more Bingo cards? Absolutely! You can purchase more Bingo cards online and at the event. We accept cash, debit cards and credit cards at the event. Can I buy my admission ticket and bingo cards in person in advance of the event? Yes! Please visit The Jamii Hub (264 The Esplanade) during office hours (10am to 4pm). We accept cash, debit cards and credit cards in person. Can I bring my child along? Can they play Bingo? Children are welcome! Please note winners and players must be over 18 years old due to Toronto by-law. How many games and prizes during the event? There are four games. For each game, there is a prize, which is composed of multiple items. Each prize has a total value of $100 or more. Are there food and beverage available at the event? Yes, we have food and drinks available for purchase at the event. For a fun community night, we aim to sell food and drinks at an affordable price. I bought tickets but I won't be able to make it. Can I request a refund? All admission tickets and bingo cards are non-refundable. If you can’t make it, feel free to pass your ticket on to a friend or family member—or consider it a donation to Jamii. If you purchased more than one ticket and choose not to attend, we’re happy to provide a charitable tax receipt for your donation. Please contact us at info@jamii.ca by January 10. GET YOUR TICKETS NOW! Photos by Iris Unlu and Collean Chau

An empowering workshop series tailored for girls and young women of The Esplanade seeking to discover their leadership skills through the world of theatre! INDOOR ACTIVITIES / LAINI / DRAMA WORKSHOPS LAINI Youth Wednesday & Thursday After School A Jamii initiative to encourage girls and young women to explore art and leadership! DRAMA WORKSHOPS March to May 2024 - Grades 1 to 12 Led by Alix Sideris Embark on a transformative 12-week journey with LAINI Drama Workshop Series for girls and young women of The Esplanade community, a unique and empowering program tailored for participants seeking to discover and hone their leadership skills through the enchanting world of theatre. The workshop series culminates in a show for parents, showcasing the girls' newfound talents and the outcome of their creative endeavors. Weekly Workshops: Over the course of 12 weeks, participants will engage in dynamic, hands-on weekly workshops, each meticulously designed to unlock a specific aspect of theatrical excellence. Lead Artist Alix Sideris: The workshops will be led by Alix Sideris. Alix is a professional actor, writer, director, movement director, writer and art education facilitator. She has performed in numerous theatre, TV, and film productions. A graduate of Concordia University, Alix has worked as an acting/movement instructor at many institutions across Canada. She is also a proud mentor to many emerging artists. Scriptwriting Mastery: Our lead artist will guide the girls in the art of scriptwriting, helping them develop narratives that captivate the audience and reflect their unique voices and perspectives. Costume Creation Extravaganza: Participants will explore the art of costume design. From conceptualization to realization, they will learn to express their characters visually and craft costumes that bring their stories to life. Set Design and Construction: The girls will create the perfect backdrop for their stories, learning the the importance of visual storytelling and attention to detail. Character Development Workshop: Through exercises and activities, girls will explore the intricacies of character development, learning to infuse their roles with authenticity and emotion. Grand Finale – A Theatrical Triumph for Parents: The 12-week journey culminates in a theatrical production where the girls take center stage to showcase their achievements. Free of charge - Register now! Tailored for girls grades 1 - 12. This workshop series fosters creativity, teamwork, and leadership, encourages self-expression and confidence and provides a supportive and inclusive environment. LAINI Theatre Workshop Series is more than just a drama class; it's a platform for girls to embrace their leadership potential while discovering the joy of storytelling. Grade 1 & 2: From March 21 to May 30 - Every Thursday at 5:30pm - 6:30pm Grade 3 to 5: From March 21 to May 30 - Every Thursday at 3:30pm - 5pm Grade 6 to 8: From March 20 to May 29 - Every Wednesday at 3:30pm - 5pm Grade 9 to 12 (Volunteering Program): From March 20 to May 29 - Every Wednesday at 5:30pm - 7pm - Volunteer hours for high school students! Alix Sideris is a professional actor, writer, director, movement director, and educator. She has performed in theatres across Canada, was also a resident actor in the National Arts Centre’s English Theatre Ensembles, voiced characters in Assassins Creed: Odyssey, Valhalla, and her latest film, Better Days, can be streamed on Apple TV. Alix has had the blessing of teaching at the Stratford Festival, The Royal Conservatory of Music, the Glen Gould School, Randolph Academy, York University, Young People’s Theatre, and the Canadian Children’s Opera Company, to name a few. Alix had the joy of facilitating movement dramaturgy for Jamii’s 41 Neighbours in 2015 and they are very happy to be back and working with the wonderful young artists at LAINI! Photo by Trish Lindstrom

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

Culture Cloths JAPANESE CLOTHING - MAY 2024 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / TUESDAY DISCOVERING / CULTURE CLOTHS / LEARNING Tuesday 7 pm Culture Cloths JAPANESE CLOTHING May 2024 May 14, 2024 Lead Artist: Takako Segawa In this edition of Culture Cloths, you are invited to delve into the world of Japanese attire, exploring its cultural significance and evolution through time. From the timelessness of the kimono to the understated charm of the yukata, Japanese garments reflect tradition and craftsmanship. Join us as we explore the diversity and beauty of Japan through its garments and discover the artistry and symbolism woven into Japanese clothing. Sabrine S Hakam, concept and design, will moderate a conversation with "MAY at Jamii" lead artist Takako Segawa. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Isorine Marc Sabrine S. Hakam | Instagram Sabrine S. Hakam is a Toronto-based artist and thinker whose style of symbolism-infused portraits foster discussions on identity, representation, and power. Sabrine holds a PhD in Geography (Arts) from King’s College London, as well as an MSc in Urbanisation and Development from the London School of Economics, an MPhil in Development Studies from the University of Oxford, and a BSc from New York University. Her work situates itself at the nexus of academia and art in order to humanize the subjects of academic work.

The Jamii Hub turns into a painting sanctuary once every month on Thursdays! In May, participants will create brilliant abstract acrylic pour artwork on canvas boards with the lead of Andrew Patterson. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / VISUAL ARTS / ACRYLIC POURING - MAY 2024 CREATING Thursday 7 pm ACRYLIC POURING May 2024 May 9, 2024 from 7 PM to 9 PM Facilitator: Andrew Patterson What happens when different colours come together? They can create beautiful, unexpected new visions! Using a variety of colours of their choosing, during this workshop, you will create brilliant abstract acrylic pour artwork on canvas boards. Artist Andrew Patterson will suggest colours that work well together, and demonstrate some basic pouring techniques for people to experiment with. These works will stand on their own as vibrant abstracts, or can even be used as the background for further experimentation! Register now to enjoy pouring acrylic! REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Iris Unlu Photo Credit: Unknown Andrew Patterson Andrew Patterson is a Toronto-based artist and designer working to challenge myths and ideas regarding identity. In particular, his work focuses on the subject of mixed-race identity and the spaces where it overlaps; culturally, ethnically, and socially. What similarities and differences do we emphasize, and why? And what bridges might be discovered and formed by those who occupy those spaces in between? These are the questions he hopes to explore and answer, often through portraiture, abstraction, and decorative/geometric symbolism. We need new fiction. 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.

OUTDOOR EVENTS / JOY IN THE PARK: FÓRRO Joy in the Park: Fórro May 2024 David Crombie Park Across Market Lane PS May "Joy in the Park" was a beautiful welcoming event that entertained everyone with music, dance, photography, face-painting, craft and more! The event began with live music by Aline Morales, Carlos Cardozo, and André Valerio, who came together to form an energetic band that ignited the stage with their electrifying fusion of forró, blending tradition with innovation. Right after the music, attendees enjoyed the physical dance piece One Couch by Throwdown Collective, where three friends, confined to a small couch, worked together to navigate life in close quarters. One of the highlights of the event was the unveiling of Jamii's new photo exhibition The Pavilion , curated by Sabrine S. Hakam, with artistic advisor Sarah S. Ahmad, showcasing the talents of seven local photographers. The exhibition explored the concept of "making space" for underrepresented groups or ideas to shine in public areas. The selected photographs presented a compelling narrative of human behavior within community spaces. Attendees had the chance to learn more about the exhibit directly from Sabrine, Sarah, and the photographers. While adults explored the photo exhibit, the young ones had a chance to high-five the stiltwalker Troy Feldman or get their faces painted by the official Esplanade face painter, Linda Epp. Linda transformed the young attendees into unicorns, fierce tigers, or butterflies with her artistic talents. Lastly, everyone had the opportunity to get a henna design on their hands from Sonia Sumaira, an exceptionally talented henna artist from Punjab, Pakistan. Henna, an ancient art form, showcased the beauty and intricacy of traditional designs and patterns on the skin, with deep cultural roots going back thousands of years. May Joy in the Park – What an enjoyable and memorable experience for all who attended. Supported by Artist Line-up: Aline Morales, Carlos Cardozo, André Valerio, Throwdown Collective, Sabrine S. Hakam, Sarah N. Ahmad, Troy Feldman, Linda Epp, Sonia Sumaira PHOTO CREDITS

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

In 2020, Jamii and Canadian Stage, both based in the The Esplanade & St Lawrence neighbourhoods, made a powerful commitment to one another and to the local community.  They joined forces with the intention of growing capacity and leveraging resources, which is meant to increase the quality of the collective arts experience, forThe Esplanade community. Partnering with our local theatre: Canadian Stage In 2020, Jamii and Canadian Stage , both based in the The Esplanade & St Lawrence neighbourhoods, made a powerful commitment to one another and to the local community. By joining forces around capacity and leveraging resources, they collaborated to increase the quality of the collective arts experience forThe Esplanade community. This partnership has flourished through the years and we are very proud of this pioneering way for two institutions to come together to make such a different. Here are some of the projects and events Jamii and Canadian Stage continue partnering through the years. Check out Canadian Stage website to find out more about what they do! Wayo August Annual - Children's Festival MORE INFO Flamenco Sept 2023 Outdoor Event MORE INFO LuminUs Nov 2022 Outdoor Event MORE INFO The Wedding 2021 Film Project MORE INFO Unlocked 2020 Short film MORE INFO Indigenous Day June 21 Annual - Outdoor Event MORE INFO Mudlark Dec 2023 Outdoor Event MORE INFO Kuné Oct 2022 Outdoor Event MORE INFO Écoute pour voir June 2021 Outdoor Event MORE INFO Kisanii Hub Exploration 2020 Artistic Exploration MORE INFO Celebrate Cultures June 27 Annual - Outdoor Event MORE INFO To my Past, Present, Future July 2023 Outdoor Event MORE INFO ApHeart May 2022 Outdoor Event MORE INFO Duets May 2021 Film Project MORE INFO Itinerant Performances 2020 Kisanii Hub - Outdoor Event MORE INFO

2011 - present International Arts Experience 2011 - present With dance/theatre company CORPUS With the support of individual donations from The Esplanade community, Maysam, Pauline and Kai were offered the amazing opportunity to travel to the other side of the planet with professional artists, attending international arts events (festivals, showcases, community performances, workshops...). The three youth joined the company on tour alongside Isorine Marc. These life-changing experiences were unique cultural and artistic opportunities to explore, learn and grow. Upon their return to The Esplanade, Maysam, Pauline and Kai shared their experiences with their families, classmates and the local community-at-large. A lot of gratitude to all the donors who brought these experiences to life. Kai - 2017 - South Africa Pauline - 2015 - China Maysam - 2011 - Cambodia

INDOOR ACTIVITIES / SPECIAL EVENTS / SEWING STUDIO SERIES SPECIAL EVENTS Fundraising For Beginners SEWING STUDIO SERIES January 25, 2026 - 10am SEWING STUDIO SERIES: LEARN • CREATE • MASTER Facilitated by Diséiye Thompson Sunday, January 25 – Beginners – Denim Tote Bag – 10AM to 3:30PM TIME: Includes a 30-minute lunch break (12:30 PM to 1:00 PM). Please bring your own lunch. The Jamii Hub provides cutlery, a fridge, and a microwave if needed. LOCATION: The Jamii Hub – 264 The Esplanade, Toronto ON M5A 4J6 COST: $150 per session This is a fundraising initiative for Jamii. By participating in this workshop, you are helping sustain Jamii’s free arts programming. Thank you for supporting creative opportunities in our community! Your payment includes $75 for the workshop cost and a $75 donation toward Jamii’s future free programs eligible for a tax receipt. WORKSHOP DESCRIPTIONS BEGINNERS | Sunday, January 25 | 10am to 3:30pm Learn essential sewing techniques, including how to operate and thread a sewing machine, and practice foundational stitches. You’ll apply these new skills by creating a simple patchwork denim tote bag! Cut your patchwork pieces from recycled jeans, follow a pattern, and construct your own bag - a fun introduction to sewing while making something practical for everyday use. No prior experience necessary - just bring your enthusiasm! WORKSHOP’S SESSIONS BREAKDOWN: 10:00 am – 12:30pm: First session of the day 12:30 pm – 1:00 pm: Lunch break (bring your lunch) 1:00 pm – 3:30 pm: Second session of the day CAPACITY: Maximum 10 participants per session. Each participant will have their own sewing machine provided. You are welcome to bring your own machine if preferred. SUPPLIES: All materials will be provided. Participants are welcome to bring their own fabric if they wish to personalize their project. Questions? Email us at info@jamii.ca GET YOUR TICKETS NOW! Photos by Ghader Bsmar Born in Nigeria, Diséiye Thompson discovered her love for tailoring by repurposing fabrics with her mother’s tailor. She moved to Toronto at 15 and studied Contemporary Arts at Ryerson University, then trained in design at The Toronto Academy of Design, graduating in 2016 and showcasing her collection at Toronto Fashion Week. Drawing on her Nigerian heritage and involvement in the ballroom community, Diséiye’s designs celebrate vibrant colors, bold silhouettes, and self-expression. She has honed her skills through apprenticeships with Greta Constantine, designing for Lea-ann Belter Bridal, and creating her own line showcased at Fashion Art Toronto and Brosche Bridal. Now specializing in custom, made-to-order clothing to reduce the fashion industry’s impact, Diséiye also works as a celebrity stylist, styling artists such as Aiza, SATE, Ceréna, and DVSN for music videos and live performances.

2 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / SATURDAY MINGLING / MIGRATION - MARCH 2024 MINGLING Saturday 7 pm Monthly Community Gathering: A night filled with music, dance, and other art forms! MIGRATION March 2024 March 23, 2024 Lead Artist: Tamar Ilana Gather at Jamii for a lively Saturday evening at our 'Saturday Mingling,' curated by Tamar Ilana, this month’s programming lead. Explore and celebrate the artistic creations, join in for music, dance, and community connections. An enriching night of shared creativity awaits! REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Jae Yang Tamar Ilana Tamar Ilana is a Toronto-born multifaceted artist who grew up on stage singing in multiple languages, touring internationally and dancing flamenco since a very young age. Of Jewish-Indigenous-Romanian-Scottish descent, Tamar sings in 20 languages and is most influenced by the Sephardic and Flamenco traditions. Tamar’s music and fierce talent reflect her personal and cultural history growing up in multicultural Toronto; accompanying her ethnomusicologist mother, Dr. Judith Cohen, on village fieldwork expeditions and on stage as a child; and living in Ibiza, Barcelona, Paris and Seville as a teen and young adult. Drawing on these experiences, Tamar founded her world music project, Ventanas, in 2011 with whom she has released three albums and been nominated for four Canadian Folk Music Awards including Best Traditional Singer. Tamar has collaborated with such renowned artists as Anna Colóm, Jesse Cook, Briga, Eliana Cuevas, Lenka Lichtenberg, Jaffa Road, Sultans of String, the Lemon Bucket Orkestra, and Ahmed Moneka. A highly sought-after flamenco dancer and singer, Tamar performs with the Esmeralda Enrique Spanish Dance Company, and at the Academy of Spanish Dance. Tamar has also been featured in award-winning, innovative international musicals in New York, San Francisco, Washington DC, the UK and Germany. In 2020, Tamar co-founded the presenting arts organization FabCollab, and has since presented over 100 BIPOC women and minority artists at venues such as Koerner Hall and the Aga Khan Museum. Instagram Photo by Sabrine S. Hakam

2020/08 < Back to Events Lua Shayenne Dance CREDITS: WITH THE SUPPORT OF:

A free community singing workshop in Toronto led by Aki Takahashi. Learn Japanese folk songs inspired by Sakura celebrations. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / SINGING / SAKURA: SPRING SONG SINGING Cycles Workshops SAKURA: SPRING SONG May 2026 Monday, May 4 and 11, Tuesday, May 19, and Monday, May 25 from 7 PM to 8:30 PM Facilitator: Aki Takahashi This singing workshop series is part of Jamii’s May Cycle and reflects the 2026 theme, It Feels Right . SAKURA: Spring Song draws inspiration from Japanese cherry blossom celebrations, where voice and music are shared collectively to welcome the season of renewal. Participants are introduced to traditional Japanese folk songs connected to Sakura festivities and explore the voice as both melodic and rhythmic expression. Through singing, chanting, and simple vocal patterns, the group shapes a contemporary version of a Sakura Viewing Festival. The workshops emphasize listening, participation, and collective sound rather than performance, allowing participants to engage in a way that feels natural and supportive. These workshops are open to participants of all experience levels. No prior knowledge of Japanese music or singing is required. Participants are encouraged to take part with curiosity and openness. 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 May Cycle is sponsored by Canada Council for the Arts, Toronto Arts Council, TD Ready Commitment, Rama Gaming House, and Charitable Gaming. REGISTRATIONS OPEN ON APR 10 Photos by Hadeal Karrar AKI TAKAHASHI Aki Takahashi is a taiko and shamisen player, folk singer, and composer with a deep practice rooted in traditional and contemporary Japanese music. She is a member and co-artistic director of NAGATA SHACHU and the founder of the ensemble TEN TEN. Aki’s work spans performance, collaboration, and teaching, and she currently instructs shamisen and voice through the Bachido Schoolhouse: International Shamisen Community. Her facilitation centres care, musical tradition, and shared experience. Photo by Jae Yang UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Mon, Feb 09 February Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Feb 09, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing freely and follow what feels right. A four-part community singing series led by Martin Gomes. Free with registration. +10 more Tue, Feb 17 February Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Feb 17, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing freely and follow what feels right. A four-part community singing series led by Martin Gomes. Free with registration. +14 more Mon, Feb 23 February Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Feb 23, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing freely and follow what feels right. A four-part community singing series led by Martin Gomes. Free with registration. +8 more

2023 - 2025 Community Projects / Film Projects / Video Portraits from Pikangikum 2023 - 2025 Pikangikum is an Ojibway First Nation in Northwestern Ontario, home to over 3,000 people. Since 2018, Pikangikum and Jamii have partnered on various arts initiatives, including photo exhibitions, video portraits, and murals in both Pikangikum and Toronto’s Esplanade community. In 2023 and 2024, Jamii collaborated with the Pikangikum Education Authority and Eenchokay Birchstick School to create a series of video portraits. These portraits feature Elders, emerging artists, established artists, and community leaders, produced by artists Isorine Marc, Gillian Mapp, and Eray Guler with support from the Jamii Team, including Iris Unlu. We are proud to share these powerful video portraits with you. They explore themes such as growing up in disconnected communities, youth struggles with addiction, the fight against suicide, and the challenge of accessing clean water. Yet, they also tell stories of hope, dreams, and a beautiful future, celebrating healers and artists who are creating meaningful change within their communities. Video Portraits from Pikangikum 2023 - 2025

The Jamii Hub turns into a singing sanctuary on Fridays! In June, join us to explore melodies and create a communal song led by Nickeshia Garrick and Paula Sofía Morales. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / SINGING / EXPLORING MELODIES AND CREATING A COMMUNAL SONG TOGETHER - JUNE 2024 SINGING Friday 7 pm EXPLORING MELODIES AND CREATING A COMMUNAL SONG June 2024 June 7 - 14 - 21, 2024 Facilitator: Paula Sofía Morales, Nickeshia Garrick Join us on Fridays June 7th, 14th and 21st for a three-part workshop series where we explore the melodies within us while creating a collective song celebrating Latin American rich cultural connections. Guided by June lead artist Nickeshia Garrick (June 7th) and singer-songwriter Paula Sofía Morales (June 14th and 21st), we'll explore music and storytelling, emphasizing unity and strengthening our community bonds through the power of music. The participants will be encouraged to sing with each other, strengthening their listening skills and singing in tune as a group. Photos by Jae Yang Paula Sofía Morales Paula Sofía is a Guatemalan singer-songwriter based in Toronto. From the stage, Paula weaves a playful connection with her audience, turning each live performance into a unique, shared moment. While most of her songs are in Spanish, Paula transcends language boundaries through her quirky songwriting, vivid imagery, and a touch of playfulness. She navigates the human experience and shares it with her listeners through her melodious voice. Instagram Nickeshia Garrick Nickeshia Garrick is a settler on the stolen land of Tkaronto and has performed on this land for over 25 years. They are unapologetically a Black, Queer Artist, who believes in the healing power of breath through raw emotion and movement. Nickeshia received their dance training at the NYIDE (New York Institution of Dance and Education), National Ballet School of Canada (Tkaronto), Toronto Dance Theatre (Tkaronto), and Simon Fraser University (Vancouver). Nickeshia is a Dora Mavor Moore, winning and multi-nominated artist who holds a BFA in Dance from Simon Fraser University. Recently, Nickeshia became the Co-Founder of the dance collective CinnaMoon Collective which premiered their full-length work, Surrendered Spirits at Canadian Stage. Instagram Photo by María Vega UPCOMING DATES Participants must register separately for each workshop session they wish to attend. Mon, Feb 09 February Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Feb 09, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing freely and follow what feels right. A four-part community singing series led by Martin Gomes. Free with registration. +10 more Tue, Feb 17 February Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Feb 17, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing freely and follow what feels right. A four-part community singing series led by Martin Gomes. Free with registration. +14 more Mon, Feb 23 February Cycle - Singing Workshop Series / The Jamii Hub REGISTER NOW Feb 23, 2026, 7:00 p.m. – 8:30 p.m. The Jamii Hub, 264 The Esplanade, Toronto, ON M5A 4J6, Canada Sing freely and follow what feels right. A four-part community singing series led by Martin Gomes. Free with registration. +8 more

2021 Community Projects / Film Projects / Duets 2021 “ DUETS ” is a series of 10 short videos that explore Jamii's season theme "How do we mix?". We invited 10 artists who didn't know each other, and paired musicians with dancers to explore this theme through a mini-creative process that saw the making of these short videos within an afternoon of magic. From Flamenco to hip hop to Opera, the Balkan trumpet, Slam Poetry and more, watch as each artists pair "mix" their artistic paths together! As part of Jamii’s 2021 season titled LOOKS LIKE US, we continue exploring one of the foundational values of the Esplanade neighbourhood: the concept of “mix” - as written in the City of Toronto site-plan for our beloved neighbourhood. Even though it is now considered normal to celebrate each other’s cultural heritage, do we actually celebrate intercultural mixing, and if so, how? Can we bring our cultures together while retaining our cultural traditions, sense of identity and uniqueness? Our hope is that “DUETS" will continue engaging artists and audiences with questions around representation and belonging, and ignite conversations. Welcome to the journey. Concept by Isorine Marc Produced and presented by Jamii Supported by Canada Council for the Arts In partnership with Canadian Stage Guest Artists: Waleed Abdulhamid, Heidi Strauss, Atri Nundy, Michael Louis Johnson, Mahlikah Awe:ri, Teiya Kasahara, Meryem Alaoui, Edz, Aline Morales, Carmen Romero. Videography/Editing: Ana Maria Higuera and Alejandra Higuera Stage Manager/Sound: Amye Sagar Jamii Team: Isorine Marc, Jasmin Linton, DeeAnn Sagar, Mira Ghabiel Filmed in the Esplanade neighbourhood, Toronto - May/June 2021 DUETS - No. 1 Co-created and co-directed by Ana Maria Higuera,Teiya Kasahara, Isorine Marc, Heidi Strauss Performed by Teiya Kasahara, Heidi Strauss Music by Teiya Kasahara Choreography by Heidi Strauss Filmed by Ana Maria Higuera Stage Manager/Sound by Amye Sagar Edited by Alejandra Higuera, Ana Maria Higuera DUETS - No. 2 Co-created and co-directed by Waleed Abdulhamid, Ana Maria Higuera, Atri Nundy, Isorine Marc Performed by Waleed Abdulhamid, Atri Nundy Music by Waleed Abdulhamid Choreography by Atri Nundy Filmed by Ana Maria Higuera Stage Manager/Sound by Amye Sagar Edited by Alejandra Higuera, Ana Maria Higuera DUETS - No. 3 Co-created and co-directed by Michael Louis Johnson, Ana Maria Higuera , Isorine Marc, Carmen Romero Performed by Michael Louis Johnson, Carmen Romero Music by Michael Louis Johnson Choreography by Carmen Romero Filmed by Ana Maria Higuera Stage Manager/Sound by Amye Sagar Edited by Alejandra Higuera, Ana Maria Higuera Supported by Rama Gaming House DUETS - No. 4 Co-created and co-directed by Alejandra Higuera, Waleed Abdulhamid, Isorine Marc, Heidi Strauss Performed by Waleed Abdulhamid & Heidi Strauss Music by Waleed Abdulhamid Choreography by Heidi Strauss Filmed by Alejandra Higuera Stage Manager/Sound by Amye Sagar Edited by Alejandra Higuera & Ana Maria Higuera DUETS - No. 5 Co-created and co-directed by Alejandra Higuera, Meryem Alaoui, Isorine Marc, Aline Morales Performed by Meryem Alaoui & Aline Morales Music & Vocals by Aline Morales Choreography by Meryem Alaoui Filmed by Alejandra Higuera Stage Manager/Sound by Amye Sagar Edited by Alejandra Higuera & Ana Maria Higuera DUETS - No. 6 Co-created and co-directed by Alejandra Higuera, Mahlikah Awe:ri, Enml'ga't Saqama'sgw, Isorine Marc, Carmen Romero Performed by Mahlikah Awe:ri, Enml'ga't Saqama'sgw & Carmen Romero Songs and slam poetry by Mahlikah Awe:ri, Enml'ga't Saqama'sgw Choreography by Carmen Romero Filmed by Alejandra Higuera Stage Manager/Sound by Amye Sagar Edited by Alejandra Higuera & Ana Maria Higuera Supported by Rama Gaming House DUETS - No. 7 Co-created and co-directed by Alejandra Higuera, Atri Nundy, Isorine Marc, Michael Louis Johnson Performed by Atri Nundy & Michael Louis Johnson Music Performed by Michael Louis Johnson Choreography by Atri Nundy Filmed by Alejandra Higuera Stage Manager/Sound by Amye Sagar Edited by Alejandra Higuera & Ana Maria Higuera DUETS - No. 8 Co-created and co-directed by Ana Maria Higuera, Edz Gyamfi , Isorine Marc, Aline Morales Performed by Edz Gyamfi & Aline Morales Music & Vocals by Aline Morales Choreography by Edz Gyamfi Filmed by Ana Maria Higuera Stage Manager/Sound by Amye Sagar Edited by Alejandra Higuera & Ana Maria Higuera DUETS - No. 9 Co-created and co-directed by Alejandra Higuera, Mahlikah Awe:ri, Enml'ga't Saqama'sgw, Isorine Marc, Meryem Alaoui Performed by Mahlikah Awe:ri, Enml'ga't Saqama'sgw & Meryem Alaoui Words & Vocals by Mahlikah Awe:ri, Enml'ga't Saqama'sgw Choreography by Meryem Alaoui Filmed by Alejandra Higuera Stage manager/Sound by Amye Sagar Edited by Alejandra Higuera & Ana Maria Higuera DUETS - No. 10 Co-created and co-directed by Alejandra Higuera, Waleed Abdulhamid, Isorine Marc, Heidi Strauss Performed by Waleed Abdulhamid & Heidi Strauss Music by Waleed Abdulhamid Choreography by Heidi Strauss Filmed by Alejandra Higuera Stage Manager/Sound by Amye Sagar Edited by Alejandra Higuera & Ana Maria Higuera Duets 2021

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

Beginner and Intermediate Friendly Projects INDOOR ACTIVITIES / CYCLES / SEWING / HOODED SCARF - SEPTEMBER 2024 SEWING Wednesday 7 pm Beginner and Intermediate Friendly Projects September 2024 HOODED SCARF Sept 4 - 11 - 18 - 25, 2024 Artist: Anita Boey This September, we invite you to participate in our exciting new series of sewing workshops, themed “Storybeing.” This concept, introduced by lead artist Nova Bhattacharya, reflects the idea that “art making is embodied storytelling.” Nova’s vision of “Storybeing” emphasizes that we are all living dynamic stories as the main characters in our own narratives. Our Sewing Facilitator, Anita Boey, has designed a Hooded Scarf made from repurposed sari and wool. This elegant scarf wraps around the neck while providing protection for the head. Much like a storyteller revealing layers of a narrative, this scarf unfolds to showcase intricate details and diverse characters within its design. Create Your Own Customized Hooded Scarf Participants will have the opportunity to create their own Hooded Scarf. We will provide a selection of fabrics to choose from, and we encourage participants to bring any special fabric that holds personal meaning. For this project, participants will need 2 meters of thick, yet soft fabric (imagine a cozy scarf). For novice sewers, our dedicated Sewing Workshop Assistants, Shaimaa and Ghader, will guide you through the fundamental skills of operating a sewing machine, starting with a simple yet captivating scarf without the hood. SHOWCASE YOUR WORK Sewing participants are highly encouraged to attend the “Saturday Mingling” event at Jamii on September 28th. This will be an opportunity to showcase your Hooded Scarf to the rest of the Jamii community. Let’s stitch our Wednesdays away in a warm and encouraging atmosphere. By the end of this workshop series, you’ll not only have a garment to treasure but also the pride of mastering new sewing skills! Workshop Schedule Wednesday, September 4 Introduction to the theme of “Storybeing” and its inspiration for the Hooded Scarf design. Participants will choose their fabric, transfer the pattern pieces onto their fabric, and cut their fabric. Wednesday, September 11 Sew the outer and lining of the hood. Wednesday, September 18 Sew the outer and lining of the scarf and piece together the hood and scarf. Wednesday, September 25 Add finishing touches to the Hooded Scarf. Conclude with a Storytelling Fashion Show! SEWING WORKSHOPS FOR SEPTEMBER IS NOW FULL. PLEASE JOIN THE WAITLIST THROUGH THE BUTTON BELOW AND WE WILL GET IN TOUCH WITH YOU IF ANY SPOTS BECOME AVAILABLE. REGISTRATIONS WILL OPEN FOR WEDNESDAY SEWING OCTOBER WORKSHOPS ON SEPTEMBER 15 AT 12 PM. PLEASE VISIT THIS PAGE AND REGISTER FOR THE UPCOMING MONTH. PLEASE NOTE THAT THE PROJECT PARTICIPANTS WORK ON IS DIFFERENT EACH MONTH. REGISTRATIONS CLOSED Photos by Isorine Marc & 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

INDOOR ACTIVITIES / LAINI / LAINI LAND LAINI Youth Wednesday & Thursday After School A Jamii initiative to encourage girls and young women to explore art and leadership! LAINI LAND August 2023 - Ages 7 - 15 Led by Ayelen Liberona, Zaynab Wilson, Isorine Marc, Afnan Yakot Jamii offered girls and young women - who are local to The Esplanade - a wonderful 5 days camping on the land! In partnership with Becoming Praxis, 15 girls made lifelong memories through artistic experiences in the outdoors. For some it was the first time leaving the city, going camping, swimming in a river or being close up to cows. They made arts, spent time outdoors, played, shared, recharged, and (re)connected with nature. At Jamii, we are so proud to see such a project, Laini Land, coming to life for a second year in a row and watching first hand the impact it has on the girls. Participants who enjoyed Laini Land have been involved with Jamii through the year doing various programming and this is part of our intent to nurture long-term relations with these youths. - Photo Credit: Unknown

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

The Jamii Hub turns into a niche artistic sanctuary once a month on Tuesdays! In May, join us to step into the world of blacksmithing with our workshop led by craftsman Steve Cornelson. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / TUESDAY LEARNING / NICHE ARTISTIC PRACTICES / BLACKSMITHING - MAY 2024 LEARNING Tuesday 7 pm Niche Artistic Practices Blacksmithing May 2024 May 7, 2024 Workshop Lead: Steve Cornelson Step into the world of blacksmithing with our workshop led by craftsman Steve Cornelson. You will discover the artistry of crafting custom cutlery in this hands-on experience. Throughout the workshop, you will immerse yourself in the ancient craft of forging, guided by Steve's expertise. Using a makeshift anvil and innovative techniques with frozen clay, you will learn the essential skills needed to shape metal into beautiful and functional pieces. You will gain valuable insights into the fundamentals of metallurgy, understanding the science behind the transformation of steel during the hardening process. This workshop offers a unique opportunity to expand your skills and knowledge under the guidance of a true artisan! REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Iris Unlu Steve Cornelson Steve is a teacher turned blacksmith. After a decade teaching abroad, Steve returned home and decided to divert his focous to his passion of blacksmithing. He now spends most of his time crafting custom cutlery heavily inspired by Japanese cutlery. Photo Credit: Shogo

< Back to Artists page featured at Jamii's events & workshops Artists Takako Segawa Dancer website Takako is contemporary dancer, choreographer and performer. Born in Kochi, Japan, she trained in both traditional arts and contemporary Japanese movement styles. Takako graduated from Nippon Sports Science University, and is a certified professional dancer from the London Contemporary Dance School. Takako’s 20-years career includes performances throughout Europe, North America and Asia. Takako also choreographed WA! in 2019 for the Yosakoi team premiered in Kochi Yosakoi dance festival. << BACK TO ARTISTS

OUTDOOR EVENTS / ÉCOUTE POUR VOIR - 2021 Écoute pour voir June 2021 1-on-1 dance performances Location: David Crombie Park Date: June 4, 5, 6 2021 In 2014 & 2015, Jamii had invited Danse Carpe Diem and their moving performance “Écoute pour voir” to the neighbourhood. We were excited to bring them back to The Esplanade for a series of 1-on-1 dance pop-ups! Écoute pour voir is made up of various solos dispersed throughout the space and danced simultaneously. Dancers and spectators wear headphones connected to an iPod and share in a choreography for the duration of a piece of music. United for a moment and bound up together in movement, dancers and spectators engage in singular encounters and each solo becomes a close dialogue, an interaction that is at once unique and momentous. CREDITS: "Écoute pour voir" Artistic Direction: Emmanuel Jouthe A show created by Emmanuel Jouthe/Danse Carpe Diem Performances produced and presented by Jamii Choreography: Emmanuel Jouthe in collaboration with performers Performers: Elise Bergeon, Andrea Nann, Syreeta Hector, Kaitlin Torrance, Swahdi Ranganee and Irma Villafuerte In partnership with Supported by PHOTO CREDITS

The Jamii Hub turns into a niche artistic sanctuary once a month on Tuesdays! In February, join us to learn rubber carving led by Juliana Bandeira. INDOOR ACTIVITIES / TUESDAY LEARNING / NICHE ARTISTIC PRACTICES / RUBBER CARVING - FEBRUARY 2024 LEARNING Tuesday 7 pm Niche Artistic Practices Rubber Carving February 2024 February 20, 2024 Workshop Lead: Juliana Bandeira Centered around the vibrant theme of Forró, this workshop aims to delve into block printing formats—such as the traditional Xilogravura, a technique used and widespread in Pernambuco, which originated in cordel literature—and tells the history of popular culture in this region of Brazil. To cap off the experience, participants will engage in rubber carving, empowering each individual to craft their unique matrix and produce prints. The overarching goal is to explore Forró-related themes, including music, musical instruments, and distinctive flora indigenous to Pernambuco, such as cacti and flowers. Through this artistic journey, attendees will not only gain hands-on printing skills but also connect with the rich cultural tapestry of the Northeastern Brazil region. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Ghader Bsmar Juliana Bandeira Juliana Bandeira is a Brazilian illustrator and graphic designer based in Toronto. In her work, she creates a playful and colourful atmosphere, working with shapes and textures. Instagram Photo Credit: Unknown

WINDSTORIES BARAZA / BARAZA PIKANGIKUM / BARAZA Pikangikum First Nation Wind Stories in Pikangikum 2020 WINDSTORIES In February 2020, the Jamii team traveled to Pikangikum First Nation in Northern Ontario to bring to life "The Stories The Wind Carries", Jamii's intra-provincial project. We partnered with the Pikangikum Education Authority and Eenchokay Birchstick School to invite people to create a portrait of fellow community members. In total, we created 18 portraits, involving 36 people in the project. Through sharing our stories together, the project intends to create bridges between 4 communities: Toronto, Wawa/Michipicoten First Nation, Wolfe Island and Pikangikum First Nation. This initiative was supported by the Canada Council for the Arts and the Ontario Arts Council. PROJECT TEAM Director: Isorine Marc Lead Artists: Mahlikah Awe:ri & Gillian Mapp Community Ambassador: Asmita Pal Filmed by Isorine Marc Edited by Laura Dittmann Music by Mahikah Awe:ri SUPPORTED BY INDOOR ACTIVITIES / THURSDAY CREATING / CRAFTING NIGHTS / Photos by Isorine Marc

Culture Cloths MIRRORS - FEBRUARY 2025 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / TUESDAY DISCOVERING / CULTURE CLOTHS / DISCOVERING Tuesday 7 pm Culture Cloths MIRRORS February 2025 February 11, 2025 Lead Artist: Jonelle Sills Mirrors can symbolize the tension between how we see ourselves and how others perceive us, a theme central to cultural identity and representation. Like a mirror reflecting what’s in front of it while holding a sense of depth, this edition of Culture Cloths uses the idea of mirrors to connect contemporary identities with ancestral legacies. Join us for an engaging conversation with Jonelle Sills, moderated by Sabrine S Hakam. REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Ghader Bsmar, Jae Yang Jonelle Sills | Instagram Jonelle Sills is one of the most exciting young sopranos of her generation. Named one of CBC Music’s 30 hot classical musicians under 30, Jonelle made her company debut at the Canadian Opera Company as Mimi in La bohème, a performance that was lauded as being a “beautifully sensitive Mimi with careful control and colour” (The Globe and Mail). Her 2023/24 season also saw role debuts with Edmonton Opera as Donna Anna (Don Giovanni), Vancouver Opera as Micaëla (Carmen), Toronto Operetta Theatre as Anna Glawari (The Merry Widow), and, in recital for the Prince Edward County Chamber Festival with the Viano Quartet. Ms. Sills past highlights include being a recital soloist with Ottawa Chamberfest, and her company debut with Toronto’s Against The Grain Theatre in Vivier Kopernikus, which earned her a 2019 Dora Award as a member of the ensemble. Jonelle has been an integral collaborator with Jamii since 2020, beginning with a performance alongside Jeremiah Sparks in Wind Stories . Over the years, her creative contributions have spanned various projects, including performing in Wayo (2021), starring in the short film series The Wedding , producing Stolen (2023) and Butterfly Ballet (2023), and most recently, performing in An Evening with David Crombie (2024). Sabrine S. Hakam | Instagram Sabrine S. Hakam is a Toronto-based artist and thinker whose style of symbolism-infused portraits foster discussions on identity, representation, and power. Sabrine holds a PhD in Geography (Arts) from King’s College London, as well as an MSc in Urbanisation and Development from the London School of Economics, an MPhil in Development Studies from the University of Oxford, and a BSc from New York University. Her work situates itself at the nexus of academia and art in order to humanize the subjects of academic work. Photo by Sabrine S. Hakam

4 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / SATURDAY MINGLING / ROOTS - MAY 2024 MINGLING Saturday 7 pm Monthly Community Gathering: A night filled with music, dance, and other art forms! ROOTS May 2024 May 25, 2024 Lead Artist: Takako Segawa Come together at Jamii for our 'Saturday Mingling' on May 25th at 7pm with live music, dancing, food and arts. Takako Segawa, our lead artist and curator for "MAY at Jamii" will host the event! With a feel of a community party, we'll share food together, enjoy Takako's dancing, surprise performance by fellow community members and live music by Germaine (vocals), Martin (keys) and Rebekah (guitar). The music will be a fusion of three different musical worlds, with the band members each bringing their own flair to create soul/ R&B/ folk covers of songs we know and love, and with some of Germaine’s original music. We promise an evening filled with shared creativity and camaraderie! REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Jae Yang Takako Segawa Takako is contemporary dancer, choreographer and performer. Born in Kochi, Japan, she trained in both traditional arts and contemporary Japanese movement styles. Takako graduated from Nippon Sports Science University, and is a certified professional dancer from the London Contemporary Dance School. Takako’s 20-years career includes performances throughout Europe, North America and Asia. Takako also choreographed WA! in 2019 for the Yosakoi team premiered in Kochi Yosakoi dance festival. Since 2020, she join Emiko Tanaka’s team and established Yosakoi team Ottawa brunch. Instagram Photo by Sabrine S. Hakam

INDOOR ACTIVITIES / SPECIAL EVENTS / JAMII BAZAAR SPECIAL EVENTS Fundraising Cute Finds, Great Prices, Big Community Vibes! JAMII BAZAAR March 15, 2025 - 1pm Hey parents, young professionals, and deal hunters—come check out a fantastic selection of high-quality and brand-new stationery, puzzles, games, and household must-haves at "wait, it's less than $10!?!" suggested donation amounts. Plus, we’ve got some "like-new" second-hand finds for those who love a good treasure hunt! Free coffee in one hand, and fun chats with your neighbours in the other. Come for the deals, stay for the vibes (and maybe snag that brand-new cute cat mug)! We were donated brand-new items and we're opening our doors to offer them with a suggested donation (between $1 to $10) to support Jamii’s free arts workshops! Who doesn’t like an afternoon of bargain hunting and community fun!? From cute stationery and home office must-haves (think: fun notebooks, weekly planner bulletin boards, and even a cozy lap desk with a soft pillow) to puzzles, games, and more — we've got treasures waiting for you! Why should you swing by? Epic deals: Snag high-quality, brand-new, trendy items. Community vibes: Hang out, sip free coffee or tea, and chit chat with people. Feel-good shopping: Every dollar you spend supports Jamii's free arts workshops for the community. Sweet Treats for a Cause: Some of our wonderful community members will be selling baked goods, with all proceeds going directly to support Jamii’s free programs. Treat yourself while giving back! PLUS: Don't miss our raffle! We’re thrilled to be offering two stunning paintings, titled Wildflower (2024) and Otter (N’gig) (2024) by Indigenous artist Darwin Peters, a beloved figure in our community. Grab your tickets for a chance to take home a piece of meaningful art: Feeling Lucky: $20 for 1 ticket In It to Win It: $35 for 2 tickets Art Lover, Big Supporter: $60 for 4 tickets The raffle tickets are available to purchase both in-person and online through this link ! By purchasing tickets to this raffle, you’ll support an Indigenous artist from Pikangikum First Nation as well as Jamii. Darwin Peters has generously pledged to donate $100 from each painting sold to Jamii’s upcoming visit to Pikangikum in 2025! So bring your best shopping buddy, your shopping bag/cart, your wallet (cash, credit, and debit accepted), and your love for a great find. First come, first served—don’t miss out on the cutest, most stylish, and most useful steals of the season! We take cash, credit, and debit, so no excuses. We will not be providing any shopping bags, please bring your own! See you there for a fun, feel-good shopping spree! OOPS, THIS EVENT IS OVER Photos by Isorine Marc and Iris Unlu

VIDEO PORTRAITS I BARAZA / BARAZA PIKANGIKUM / BARAZA Pikangikum First Nation Creation of a video series of local artists 2023 VIDEO PORTRAITS I From April 5th to 12th, Isorine and Gillian Mapp returned to Pikangikum. Building on this story and Darwin’s portrait created in the Fall of 2022, during this visit, Isorine Marc (Alchemist at Jamii) and artist Gillian Mapp worked on a creating a series of 6 videos. Our intent was to shine a spotlight on the talented artists of the community in Pikangikum. We are incredibly grateful for the support of art teacher Vanessa Hazel at Eenchokay Birchstick School, who was instrumental in supporting us through this project. With her precious help, Isorine and Gillian are (re)connecting with the community members of Pikangikum. Morningstar Quill Filmed in both September 2022 and April 2023. In this portrait, Morningstar speaks about how photography helps her mental health as she has been dealing with grief, and how she hopes to inspire the next generation of artists, including her son. She talks about the many talents in Indigenous communities and how she is there to answer any questions people may have. Click here to watch Morningstar Quill's video portrait. Lindsay King Lindsay, who is a staff at Eenchokay Birchstick School, has written a children book, “Storyteller Skye”. In the interview, she recounts the journey to bring this book to life, its meanings, and how important representation matters. Lindsay is also sharing how her (re)learning of medicine is inspiring her next book which is about a young girl learning about plants as medicine. Click here to watch Lindsay King's video portrait. Amberlee King Amberlee shares how grief influence her work and how painting is a way to express her dreams she has visions of. She also talks about housing issues in the community and ways she thinks it could be addressed. Click here to watch Amberlee King's video portraits. Maddy King Maddy discusses how photography has given her ideas of opening her new business and inspiring other youths to find their own passion. She talks about grief and how some photos she takes represent people she has lost. She mentions alcoholism problems she sees in the community and her hope for change. Click here to watch Maddy King's video portraits. Travis G Peters Travis recounts how he picked up his first guitar and how music guided him through his life. He mentioned problems with youths and gas sniffing and how he would love to share his passion of music with them in the hope they would find a direction in their life. Click here to watch Travis G Peter's video portraits. Chief Shirley Keeper The Jamii Team was also honoured to meet with and create a portrait of Chief Shirley Keeper. Chief Shirley Keeper, in her video portrait, shares how she accepted the invitation to become Chief and how she consulted her people to make this step. She shares why it is so important to take on this role, and what some of her responsibilities are. She explains how much she cares about the young generation, especially young parents, hoping to help them through the path and parenthood and breaking cycles of grief. Click here to watch Chief Shirley Keeper's video portraits. When we traveled to Pikangikum in Fall 2022, we were honoured to be allowed to video record two stories shared by Elder Matthew Strang. He told the stories in his mother tongue, Ojibwe. Community members of Pikangikum had shared with us that stories of Elders had been captured years ago but it was lost in a fire. It was expressed that supporting capturing these stories for the community is something that would be precious to locals. During our 2022 visit, we filmed Elder Matthew Strang, who recounted a childhood memory of when there were only seven families in Pikangikum. When people heard the sound of bells coming through the forests, they hid all their precious belongings. The bells meant white men on dog sleds were coming to rob them of their rabbit fur, plant-based medicine for colds and coughs, and tools they had made. When we visited Pikangikum in April 2023, we were able to sit with Dannye Peters to work on the translation of these stories to English. With this project, the intent is to preserve these stories, as told by the Elder, and to share with the community at large, and especially with the youth. We are grateful for Dannye's time and care in doing such important work, and while Isorine and Dannye found laughter together, it was tedious work to honour Matthew's words. To animate the stories and trigger our imagination, we invited Jenna Quill to create illustrations to accompany these stories. Jenna is a young women from the community who attends Eenchokay Birchstick School. Within minutes of listening to the stories, she started drawing landscapes and women on an Ipad - and we were stunned by her natural talent. The illustrations will be integrated within the video of Matthew Strang. Local musician Travis G Peters created music to go with the story, and in all that, we aim at doing our best to honour the words and the talent at play. The intent is that this is a story that can be shared with the Eenchhokay Birchstick School students as well as in our community for all to continue learning. SUPPORTED BY INDOOR ACTIVITIES / THURSDAY CREATING / CRAFTING NIGHTS / Photos by Isorine Marc

MULTICULTURAL DAY CELEBRATIONS / 2022 MULTICULTURAL DAY Jamii's Annual Celebrations 2022 - 4th Year! June 27, 2022 David Crombie Park | The Esplanade & Princess St In light of nationally recognized Canadian Multiculturalism Day, Jamii invited community members to engage with the rhythm and sounds of music and dance from various parts of the world. The event included dance by Ballet Creole accompanied by Carribean steel pan music by Trevor Redhead and Susette Vidale, Japanese Yosakoi dance led by Takako Segawa and performed by Kochi Yosakoi Ambassador KIZUNA International Team, Indigenous hoop dancing by Emilee Ann Pitawanakwat, and clarinet performence by Majd Sekkar. The event was wrapped up with a photo exhibit unveiling by Murphy Owusu and panel discussion with the photographer who responded to our 2022 season theme "Water is Memory" through the lens of his camera. In Partnership with Video and Edit by Recro Digital Marketing "Water No Get Enemy"Photo Exhibition Jamii produced and unveiled a photo exhibition featuring Murphy Owusu's work as part of Canadian Multiculturalism Day celebrations in David Crombie Park. This exhibition, presented from June to December 2022, is a selection of 8 photos and it takes us on a journey with Murphy as he reflects on his travels from his home country Ghana, to São Tomé, Ethiopia, and Turtle Island. Through his lens, Murphy reminds us that, despite colonial legacies that separate us from it, we are a part of Nature – the land, its waters and other-than-human life forms. Visit Water No Get Enemy for more information about the photo exhibition! CREDITS Live at the Kisanii Hub Produced & Presented by Jamii Jamii Team: Afnan Yakot, Hadeal Karrar, Iris Unlu, Isorine Marc, Maysam Ghani, Nadifa Daud Mohamed, Yusra Yacout Host: TrudyLee Gayle "Water No Get Enemy" Photo Exhibit: Murphy Owusu Live Performer: Trevor Redhead, Suzette Vidale, Allan Ramsaran Dancer: Ballet Creole Japanese Yosakoi Dance: Kochi Yosakoi Ambassador KIZUNA International Team Clarinet: Majd Sekkar Indigenous Hoop Dance: Emilee Ann Pitawanakwat Stage Manager: Julia Beaulieu Event Photographer: Abel Tesfaldet Event Videographer: Recro Digital Marketing Photos by Abel Tesfaldet, Delphy Photography

COMMUNITY PROJECTS / PARTNERSHIPS / HEARTISTRY HEARTISTRY Art Workshop Series PARTNERSHIP WITH BRUSSAUX ART GROUP, AND SISTERS CIRCLE May to June 2025 Workshops Led by Curtia Wright From May 17 to June 28, 2025, with Heartistry , 15 participants embarked on a heartfelt journey of healing and self-discovery through art with a series of art workshops led by artist Curtia Wright. One participant shared that the workshops series made her feel safe to express herself freely. Over six Saturdays, the group explored emotions and creativity through drawing, painting, collage, self-portraits, and a collaborative mural, creating a safe and welcoming space to connect, reflect, and grow together. “This experience helped me feel calm, relaxed, and grounded.” Shared one of the participants. The series concluded with a group mural, symbolizing individual growth connected by a shared vine of healing and resilience. One participant said: “For me, it was such a sweet way to connect with amazing people while reflecting on my own journey.” This workshop series was co-produced by Jamii, Brussaux Art Group , and Sister's Circle . WORKSHOP SERIES BREAKDOWN: Week One: Exploring Names & Identity Participants reflected on the meaning of their names and how these shaped their sense of self and identity. Week Two: Collage & Self-Discovery Through collage, participants expressed values and aspects of their identity, drawing from memories and meaningful life events. Week Three: Abstract Emotion Using abstract art, participants explored and expressed inner emotions through color, shape, and movement - beyond words. Week Four: Self-Portraits Participants created expressive self-portraits focused on emotional truth rather than physical accuracy, encouraging self-reflection. Week Five: Safe Space Imagery Participants illustrated real or imagined places where they felt safe, using the imagery as a tool for emotional grounding. Week Six: Group Mural – Healing Together Participants co-created a mural, each contributing a section symbolizing personal growth, connected by a shared vine of healing and resilience. Photos by Laura Dittmann, Isorine Marc, Afnan Yakot Photo by Laura Dittmann About Curtia Wright: Curtia Wright is a multidisciplinary Fine Artist, Mural Artist and Arts Educator based in Toronto, Ontario. She received her BFA at OCAD University in the Drawing and Painting program in 2015. Her murals fuse elements of fantasy, sci-fi and surrealism with vibrant transportive colours used to animate their environments. Her work uses the human figure to showcase narratives often centering around her lived experience. The work she creates looks at mental health, metaphysics, and the ephemerality of dreams and memory through a sci-fi lens. She has collaborated on public art projects with Community organizations, Commercial and Private mural commissions across Canada and Internationally. About Brussaux Art Group: Brussaux Art Group, founded by multidisciplinary artist and advocate Sophie Brussaux, is a Toronto-based creative collective that merges art, sustainability, and technology to drive social impact. The group has partnered with institutions like the UN and GoChain, and has been featured in Forbes for its work in using creativity to influence positive change. Brussaux Art Group has a strong presence in Toronto’s cultural scene and a mission to amplify underrepresented voices through visual art and storytelling. Find out more: Brussaux Art Group About Sisters Circle: Sister’s Circle is a Toronto-based organization that empowers Black and racialized Muslim girls and women through workshops and support services. They foster personal growth, cultural connections, and mental wellness in a safe, inclusive, and nurturing environment. Founded to create a dedicated space where women are truly seen and heard, Sister’s Circle is committed to empowerment, cultural enrichment, and making a meaningful impact in the lives of young Black women. Find out more: Sister's Circle

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

9 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / SATURDAY MINGLING / MIRRORS - FEBRUARY 2025 MINGLING Saturday 7 pm Monthly Community Gathering: A night filled with music, dance, and other art forms! MIRRORS February 2025 February 22, 2025 Lead Artist: Jonelle Sills Join us for Saturday Mingling—a delightful evening of live music, art sharing, and delicious food! Hosted by our February Cycle lead artist, Jonelle Sills, the night features live music by the incredible Stacey Asiedu, accompanied by O’Neil Gerald Donald on keys. Stacey’s soulful blend of R&B and Neo-Soul, inspired by legends like Ella Fitzgerald and Jhene Aiko, promises to captivate with her emotive, uplifting vocals. We also have a special guest - Vicky Wang will treat you to a line drawing portrait! Don’t miss this night of performances, surprise dances and tasty finger foods! REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Jae Yang Jonelle Sills Jonelle Sills is one of the most exciting young sopranos of her generation. Named one of CBC Music’s 30 hot classical musicians under 30, Jonelle made her company debut at the Canadian Opera Company as Mimi in La bohème, a performance that was lauded as being a “beautifully sensitive Mimi with careful control and colour” (The Globe and Mail). Her 2023/24 season also saw role debuts with Edmonton Opera as Donna Anna (Don Giovanni), Vancouver Opera as Micaëla (Carmen), Toronto Operetta Theatre as Anna Glawari (The Merry Widow), and, in recital for the Prince Edward County Chamber Festival with the Viano Quartet. Ms. Sills past highlights include being a recital soloist with Ottawa Chamberfest, and her company debut with Toronto’s Against The Grain Theatre in Vivier Kopernikus, which earned her a 2019 Dora Award as a member of the ensemble. Jonelle has been an integral collaborator with Jamii since 2020, beginning with a performance alongside Jeremiah Sparks in Wind Stories . Over the years, her creative contributions have spanned various projects, including performing in Wayo (2021), starring in the short film series The Wedding , producing Stolen (2023) and Butterfly Ballet (2023), and most recently, performing in An Evening with David Crombie (2024). Stacey Asiedu Stacey Asiedu is an R&B and Neo-Soul singer whose artistry is shaped by influences such as Adele, Ella Fitzgerald, Jhene Aiko, and Cynthia Erivo. With a voice that first captivated hearts at the age of 2, Stacey began writing her own songs by 14. Her roots in church singing and her formal training in vocal jazz at York University have deeply enriched her sound. A career highlight was her live performance at Honey Jam in 2012, where her talent shone brightly. Stacey also enjoys singing at weddings and galas, bringing elegance and emotion to special events, and hopes to do more of this in the near future. Her mission is to create music that fosters connection, joy, and healing, reminding her audience that they are never alone. Through her soulful melodies and heartfelt lyrics, she seeks to uplift and inspire listeners worldwide. O’Neil Gerald Donald Take a 2000s urban pop groove and a robust baritone-tenor voice, wrap it in a few synthesizers, dip it all in a booming background vocal arrangement and you have O'Neil Gerald Donald. Although he doesn't identify as a dancer, O'Neil loves producing music that makes people comfortable to do their own little 2-step. He uses catchy melodies to unpack complex truths about faith. O'Neil cites influence from the likes of Timbaland, Darkchild and Kirk Franklin - all distinctly known for their musical intricacy and explosive energy. Outside of his own music, he produces for his wife, MIAMAGINATION, leads the music department at his church and runs Reclaim Your Voice - a vocal coaching business centred on helping singers fortify their mindset and freely share their musical message. Vicky Wang Vicky Wang is an artist specializing in line art portraits. Her art is marked by her signature style of fun and flowing lines that reflect her zest for life, joyful spirit, and love of human connection. Her continuous lines are a deliberate choice, leaving no room for doubt or hesitation. She started her business “A Portrait By Vicky” to spread the joy of her portraits with the people around her. What began as a pandemic project in 2020 has now expanded to drawing portraits of hundreds of people all over the world. She loves engaging with the people she’s drawing, and the surprise delight that arises when they see their portrait for the first time. It is a joy and honour for her to share the uniqueness and beauty she sees in each human face through her art, giving others the opportunity to see themselves in a new light." Photo by Sabrine S. Hakam

OUTDOOR EVENTS / JOY IN THE PARK: CELEBRATING CULTURES - 2024 Joy in the Park: Celebrating Cultures June 2024 David Crombie Park - Sherbourne St & The Esplanade Jamii's 6th Annual Multiculturalism Day Celebrations took place on Thursday, June 27th, in David Crombie Park, celebrating the rich mix of cultures within our neighborhood. The evening featured a grand community potluck organized by Jamii and community partners. The event marked the first "Esplanade Cultural Potluck," hoped to become an annual tradition, with a vibrant array of dishes brought by community members. To complement the picnic, attendees enjoyed live music by Kuné, Canada’s global orchestra. Conceived by the Royal Conservatory of Music and Mervon Mehta, Kuné celebrated cultural diversity with eleven musicians from around the world, each playing unique instruments to create a distinctly global sound. Their music was joyful and uplifting! The celebrations included a market featuring local artisans displaying their work: Amberlee King’s paintings, Ana Figo’s earrings, Ayami Terasawa’s Mizuhiki craft, Steve Cornelsen’s cutlery, Carmen Chan’s jewelry, May Yu’s postcards, Mariana Hernandez’s paintings, Eleshia Thomas’s cards and jewelry, AfroMousse’s Afro-print goods, and Liselle Yorke’s ceramic and woodwork. For families, face painter Linda Epp and henna artist Noshin Hussain were on hand to add a creative touch. The St. Lawrence Market provided a barbecue feast, and St. Lawrence Daycare Co-Op offered crafts for young attendees. Canadian Stage was also present, giving attendees a chance to win tickets to their 2024 season. A lot happened on June 27th in David Crombie Park and the crowd showed up in big numbers! This vibrant and joyful celebration brought the community together to embrace its cultural diversity, making it a beautiful event for all who attended. Supported by Artist Line-up: Live Music by Kune Face Painting by Linda Epp Henna by Noshin Hussain, Marketplace Artists: Amberlee King (paintings), Ana Figo (earrings), Ayami Terasawa (Mizuhiki craft), Steve Cornelsen (knife and cutlery), Carmen Chan (jewellery), May Yu (postcards), Mariana Hernandez (paintings), Eleshia Thomas (cards & jewellery), Sharon Zarita Adhiambo (craft), AfroMousse (Afro-print handmade goods), Liselle Yorke (ceramic & woodwork) PHOTO CREDITS

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

2013 Catwalkers 2013 For four months, six committed women from The Esplanade - Teresa McGeachie, Rosie Fernandez, Marina Hanacek, Judy Browne, Carol Auld & Kerryn Graham - worked with artist Anne Fauteux on the creation of a collection of wearable pieces. This unique collection pushes traditional boundaries of the fashion industry by creating outfits that are playful and stimulate interaction between people and urban space. Designers have used recycled material referring to sustainable and creative ways of living. Co-curated by Catherine Sicot ( Elegoa Cultural Production ) and Isorine Marc. ‘Catwalkers’ was a project designed, staged and performed by professional artists Anne Fauteux and Michael Caldwell, and community members from The Esplanade. The collection was presented for the first time to the public as part of the Catwalkers's Show, a choreographed site-specific performance featured during Scotiabank Nuit Blanche (Saturday, Oct 5th 2013). Choreographer Michael Caldwell worked with diverse models - members of The Esplanade community - on the creation of this performance. The Catwalkers' Show took the audience on a journey to the heart of The Esplanade. This project is co-produced by Jamii and CORPUS . Presenting partner: St Lawrence Market Neighboorhood BIA . Thanks to the support of the Ontario Trillium Foundation and the Ontario Arts Counci l. Special thanks to ING Direct, Jamii's 2013 season sponsor.

10 INDOOR ACTIVITIES / SATURDAY MINGLING / GROUNDED - MARCH 2025 MINGLING Saturday 7 pm Monthly Community Gathering: A night filled with music, dance, and other art forms! GROUNDED March 2025 March 22, 2025 Lead Artist: Sharon Zarita Adhiambo Join us for Saturday Mingling, the grand finale of Jamii’s March cycle with lead artist Sharon Zarita Adhiambo! This intimate evening of live music, art sharing, and delicious food is a celebration of the creativity, connections, and discoveries made throughout the month. Experience a soulful live performance by R&B singer-songwriter Kajé, pianist Saksham Singh, and violinist Albert Amponsah. Through original compositions, this talented trio will bring music that offers joy, solace, and a sense of renewal for the soul. But this night is more than just a concert: it’s a showcase of the artistic journey that has unfolded throughout the month. Participants from Monday Dancing, Wednesday Sewing, Thursday Crafting, Thursday Painting, and Friday Singing will take the stage to share the work they’ve created, whether through movement, music, visual art, or handmade pieces. It’s a moment to honour their creativity and the grounding power of artistic expression. As you mingle, enjoy tasty Kenyan finger food and a warm, welcoming atmosphere where neighbours come together to share in the joy of community. Whether you've been part of Jamii’s workshops or are simply curious to experience the magic of our programs, this is the perfect night to connect, celebrate, and be inspired. Come for the performances, stay for the community, and leave feeling a little more grounded! REGISTRATION IS CLOSED Photos by Jae Yang Sharon Zarita Adhiambo Sharon Zarita Adhiambo is a Kenyan arts administrator, consultant and creative leader whose heart beats for holistic development of people and communities through artistic experiences. Zarita has worked in the arts sector in Kenya and Canada producing projects centered on self expression, social integration, and cultural celebration. Her work is grounded in creating barrier-free spaces where everyone can explore the artist in them while remaining authentic in their identity and stories. Apart from being an arts worker, she strengthens the industry as a mentor and advocate for arts progression. Zarita holds a Postgraduate Certificate in Arts Administration from Humber College and is currently the Arts Program Officer at Assembly Hall, City of Toronto. She is also the founder of Sekoya East Africa, a non-profit that provides emerging crafters and other artists in Kenya accessible professional development resources and mentorship to advance their careers locally, produce artwork with a global influence and have a peer community to belong to. Since 2019, she has worked with Jamii in various capacities and projects with the most recent being The Little Esplanade. She is delighted to join Jamii’s community this March as a guest curator alongside other incredible artists.   Kajé Northern Star Soul Diva singer, songwriter Kajé is an upcoming artist that is killing the urban scene! Kajé has already worked with grammy nominated producers such as Sauce Boy, Eli Brown and Albi. Kajé just released her 2nd single “Let You Go” February of this year. She is extremely passionate about producing true R&B Music. Kajé sings about friendships, love, betrayal and her own personal life experiences. Her musical influences include Dorinda Clarke, Erykah Badu, Prince, Lauryn Hill and Jazmine Sullivan just to name a few. She has worked with a collective group of talented musicians from all around North America. Kajé believes humility is the key and keeps God at the centre of her life to stay grounded. Saksham Singh Saksham Singh is a Toronto-based musician and composer with roots in India. He is the founder of Kalakaar Collective, an artist-led group that experiments with and performs South Asian music, having played over 120 shows across Canada. He began his musical journey exploring blues and pop before delving into Indian classical music. He experiments with fusing different genres to discover new and unique musical expressions. Currently studying Arts Administration at Humber College, he also works with Arts Etobicoke, a non-profit dedicated to fostering an inclusive and creative community. Albert Amponsah Albert Obeng Amponsah is a choral composer, conductor, and passionate musician playing both ateneteben (bamboo flute) and violin. Composing music rooted in choral and church traditions, he is a also music educator and teaches community music at Wilfrid Laurier University. Photo by Sabrine S. Hakam

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