Toronto Neighbourhood Office’s Senior’s Luncheon at the Ontario Science Centre
Greetings and Happy New Year!
I am just sharing a recap of my year of wonderful opportunities that I had with people from across the city doing great things within their organizations and for the community.
2022 was a busy year! I had the privilege to perform for Black History Month celebrations, create and present FREE virtual steelpan classes for children during March Break which successively turned into a 10-week virtual program (each student was given a steelpan to borrow and use), and perform for senior day programs and residences around the GTA.
Last year I made some new connections and did more corporate events. I had the chance to perform and present hands-on workshops for employees of Oxford Properties, UPS, Pepsi, HOOPP, NPI, CI Financial, RBC, and slew of others.
I was chosen to perform for the Queen's Platinum Jubilee at the Royal York but was even more honoured to participate in the 1st Annual Emancipation Cup (founded by Dewitt Lee of Emancipation Month Canada) at the newly named Emancipation Park (formerly Dixie 407 Sports Park) during Emancipation Month. An honour as the Emancipation Month Act became law in Ontario as of February 2022.
I was again appreciated to be invited to a yearly summer event for Sistering, a multi-service agency that serves women who are marginalized, homeless, and may have experienced trauma or violence. MabelleArts, an innovative charity, invited me once more to perform during their weekly MabellePantry which provides fresh produce to community members who experience food insecurity. Each time I have returned to their neighbourhood, I see how much more the residents have come together as a community and family. Special thanks to the Nia Centre for all the work they do for artists across the African diaspora. I had the pleasure of connecting with their community members through the delivery of my workshops. Upon speaking with them you really see how an afternoon of making the decision to try something new, meeting new people, and creating music can make a difference in relieving stress and producing some happy vibes (It is really needed!).
I would ENCOURAGE everyone to learn more about these organizations that service the community.
I had so much fun leading hands-on workshops for youth at U of T Scarborough through the UTSC x 100 Strong Foundation program, faculty at U of T Mississauga and performing for a student conference at Humber College.
This past fall marked the official installation of Dr. Rhonda McEwen as Victoria's 14th president and vice-chancellor.
I had the honour, alongside pannist with Earl La Pierre Jr, to perform for this historic event at Victoria University at University of Toronto. Thank you to Jamea Zuberi for making this a reality.
MUCH APPRECIATION to those who gave me invitations to perform, facilitate workshops, and even made recommendations of my services!
I am EXCITED for all the wonderful opportunities that this illustrious instrument, the steelpan, will bring me this year.
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