Jamii Esplanade

Group of individuals standing together in a line, wearing colourful attire. There is a building in the background covered in green leaves and vines. There is a bicycle decorated in bright colours and the words "Jamii" in white.

Jamii Community, Jamii Esplanade, a community heritage organization nominated for the 2021 Heritage Toronto Awards. Courtesy of Jamii Esplanade.

Individual sitting while performing in a residential area. They are holding an instrument with a mic in front. People are watching the performance nearby.

Itinerant Performance at the Kisanii Hub, Jamii Esplanade, a community heritage organization nominated for the 2021 Heritage Toronto Awards. Courtesy of Jamii Esplanade.

Collection of nine images of women sitting at a table with a large microphone in front of them.

Voice recording session, Unlocked, 2021 Heritage Toronto Awards Public History Nominee. Image: Isorine Marc.

Jamii (Swahili for “community”), is an art organization dedicated to creating community engagement and supporting young female leaders. Jamii has produced over 200 events and worked with over 200 artists since it launched in 2011. By engaging Esplanadians of all ages, cultural backgrounds, household income, physical ability and sexual orientation in creative projects, Jamii works to generate opportunities for social interaction, dialogue, and empowerment. Their goal is to bridge generations and create a sense of belonging.

Through theatre, film, music and dance performances, visual art, and exhibits, Jamii fosters an environment where BIPOC artists are celebrated and supported. The LAINI program was established in 2020 with the goal of encouraging young women (particularly from BIPOC communities) to become tomorrow’s creative leaders by building leadership skills and enhancing female empowerment.