My team
I’m running the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon to raise funds for Jamii. Donate to support free arts and community programs.
Last September, after a long hiatus during my first decade as a mother, I laced up my running shoes again. I have never been a runner really, but I took on the challenge and signed up to run the 5K at the Toronto Waterfront Marathon and committed to raising funds for Jamii, the organization I founded, and our Laini program for girls and young women.
I thought I was simply training for a race.
Instead, something unexpected happened.
One day, my oldest daughter asked to join me on a run. Then she came again. And again. She listened to my story running the 5K in October, and has since kept it up with the running.
Now, once, sometimes twice a week, we run 5K together.
At first, I was the one encouraging her to keep going when it got hard. Today, by the second kilometre she's a few steps ahead of me, and by the last kilometre she's usually a full minute in front. I couldn't be prouder. Somewhere along the way, our roles reversed. Now she's the one cheering me on and reminding me to keep pushing.
A year ago, we were running our 5Ks in over 40 minutes. Today, she's under 31 minutes, and I'm under 32. On race day this October, with the excitement and adrenaline, I'm hoping to cross the finish line in under 30 minutes. That's my personal goal. It's what gets me to put on my running shoes every week.
But this run is about more than a personal best.
I'm hoping to raise $1,500 for Jamii's Laini program, which creates welcoming, creative spaces where girls and young women can build confidence, form meaningful friendships, care for their mental health, and discover who they are through the arts.
I've watched my own daughters grow up at Jamii. I've seen firsthand how being surrounded by creativity, community, and caring mentors has helped them explore new art forms without pressure, find their voice, and develop a strong sense of belonging. Those experiences have become anchors in their lives, and I want other girls to have the same opportunity.
With $1,500, Jamii can hire a professional artist to lead a series of 10 workshops for 15 girls and young women, giving them a safe, supportive space to create, connect, and grow. That's what you and I are doing together with this fundraising.
Every training run brings me one step closer to my goal of running a sub-30-minute 5K.
Your donation will help another young person take their own next step.
Thank you for supporting Jamii and investing in the next generation.
Description
Thank you for supporting Jamii, a Toronto arts organization celebrating its 15th year of bringing people together through free arts programs, community events, and shared creative experiences.
At a time when the cost of living is high and many people are feeling isolated or overwhelmed, community spaces like The Jamii Hub are more important than ever. The Jamii Hub is a welcoming community space on The Esplanade and a third space for many people. It is a place outside of home and work where children, youth, adults, and older adults can gather, connect, and feel a sense of belonging.
Your donation helps keep Jamii’s programs free and supports a space where people can build community, express themselves, and access the arts in an inclusive and meaningful way. By donating, you’re also cheering on the runners like me as we take on this marathon in support of Jamii’s work.
Thank you for supporting my fundraiser and helping Jamii continue this meaningful work.
