Highland Creek Community Association

TPL Literary Loopers
2025-11-01 10:30 - 11:30, 2025-10-04 10:30 - 11:30, 2025-09-06 10:30 - 11:30, 2025-06-07 10:30 - 11:30, 2025-05-03 10:30 - 11:30 (America/Toronto) | Toronto Public Library – Highland Creek Branch, 3550 Ellesmere Rd, Scarborough, Ontario, M1C 3Z2, Canada
Join us on the 1st Saturday of each month and knit or crochet with a friendly group! You can also share your projects and exchange helpful tips and techniques with others! Whether you’re new to knitting, crocheting or an experienced crafter, bring your work and join us for a relaxing time of creativity and conversation. All skill levels are welcome and must bring your own needles, crochet hooks and yarn.
**Note this is not a program where formal instructions are given**
No registration required, just drop-in.

Christmas Craft & Gift Show
2025-10-22 09:00 - 16:00 | Royal Canadian Legion, 305 Morrish Rd, Scarborough, Ontario, M1C 1E9, Canada
Free Admission! Come out and do your Christmas Shopping early.
Vendors contact Colleen Pierson. Phone 905-243-0619 or email colleenbpierson@gmail.com

Ward 25 By-Election Candidate Forums
2025-09-16 19:00 - 21:00 | Royal Canadian Legion, 305 Morrish Rd, Scarborough, Ontario, M1C 1E9, Canada
The City Councillor position for Ward 25 is currently vacant. A By-Election will be held on Monday, September 29 to fill the vacancy.
The four Community Associations in the southern half of Ward 25 are hosting the following candidate forums for residents to meet candidates.

Saturday, September 13 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. – Port Union Community Centre, 5450 Lawrence Avenue East
Tuesday, September 16 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. – Royal Canadian Legion, 305 Morrish Road

As there are 20 registered candidates, rather than a debate, the candidate forums will feature a “candidate marketplace” where residents can meet candidates in one place, engage in conversations, and receive campaign literature. Beginning at 7:00 p.m. each candidate will be provided with two and a half minutes to speak, following which those in attendance will have the opportunity to connect directly with the candidates.
Voting Day for the By-Election is Monday, September 29 from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Advance Voting takes place on Saturday, September 20 and Sunday, September 21 from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Are you on the Voters’ List? Do you know where to vote? Check the City of Toronto’s MyVote website at myvote.toronto.ca.
All 20 registered candidates for the upcoming Ward 25 by-election were invited to submit a brief biography for this event and latest edition of The Villager:
Walter Alvarez-Bardales — Born in war-torn Guatemala, Walter Alvarez-Bardales survived civil conflict, homelessness, and learning disabilities to become a federal civil servant, MBA salutatorian and doctoral candidate in social sciences. An Afro-Indigenous immigrant, he champions equity through his Democracy Matters! YouTube channel (500K+ views) and a decade of healthcare-inclusion research. As Ward 25 councillor, he will defend accessible transit, expand mental health and community clinics, protect affordable housing, and ensure transparent and accountable governance that preserves hard-won gains while also advancing racial, cultural, and disability justice.
Anita Anandarajan — My name is Anita Anandarajan, and I have been living in this riding for 10 years. I hold a Bachelor of Science from the University of Ottawa and have completed post-graduate studies in Human Resources Management. I have worked in the community as a workforce developer and was the Ontario Liberal candidate in the 2022 and 2025 provincial elections. I am committed to serving you—listening to our community’s voices and taking a comprehensive approach to violence prevention, public safety, climate justice, and transit solutions. I will use all available city government resources to protect our residents and deliver efficient city services.
Darrell Brown — Darrell Brown has been an effective advocate for numerous groups across the decades, successfully spurring on legislative and regulatory changes. He knows how to communicate, to send the right message at the right time. His last assignment was raising $15 million during COVID to stave off the CNE’s demise. It now sits with the largest surplus in its 146-year history ($32 million). Darrell has worked in 15 countries including Southeast and Central Asia, Europe and North America addressing almost any issue thoroughly and efficiently. As a Ward 25 City Councillor, he can be your voice.
Zia Choudhary — Zia Choudhary is a proud resident of Ward 25, Scarborough–Rouge Park with over 40 years of professional and community service experience. A Realtor, Financial Advisor, Tax Professional, and Chair of the Port Union Waterfront Festival Committee, he has long served the community with dedication. Zia is running for City Councillor to support seniors, improve housing affordability, strengthen transit and infrastructure, invest in youth, and ensure fiscal responsibility. He promises open, accessible leadership that delivers real results. Vote Zia Choudhary for City Councillor.
Reza Khoshdel — Reza Khoshdel is a committed family man and longtime ward resident, raising his children with his wife in the community he serves. With a BComm, MBA, and MPA, he brings strong academic credentials and proven leadership. As Executive Director of a registered charity and President of the West Rouge Association, Reza has delivered results through grassroots leadership and advocacy. His vision is clear: safer communities, stronger city services, investment in youth and seniors, thriving local businesses, better housing, and improved transportation; because he believes these are the foundations of a stronger, more vibrant community.

Donna LaRush — Please vote for LaRush, Donna. I retired from Toronto Fire in Feb 2025 as a firefighter. I know Ward 25 well. I chaired a TDSB parents council for years. Was a founding member of an Eco protection group, helped start a Scarborough food bank and volunteered at a Scarborough out of the cold program. I started a single seniors meetup group. Together we will fight for equity, appropriate housing, a safe, well-planned community for everyone. I support local. I will make sure tax dollars are not wasted. Together we will have a vision and accomplish goals.
Brian Matthews — Amidst a crowded field of familiar faces, I offer an independent voice for Ward 25. Unlike other candidates, my focus is not on past battles but on our future. I understand that our community is poised for new growth and development. My priority is to proactively ensure that we have the necessary services—from infrastructure to community resources, including transit and public spaces—to support this growth. I’m a dedicated, hands-on leader ready to tackle our community’s challenges head-on. To learn more about my platform, visit www.electbrianmatthews.com.
Zakir Patel — Running to be your next Ward 25 Councillor. A lifelong public servant and Scarborough – Rouge Park resident. I have lived in Scarborough for more than 29 years; I’ve dedicated my career to helping families and communities thrive. As a TDSB Trustee since 2018, I’ve proudly served residents, and I remain committed to listening, advocating, and delivering results. As Councillor, I’ll ensure your tax dollars are invested with a clear value return in services and programs, address affordability, and prioritize safety by supporting police and community-led solutions. I look forward to connecting and hearing from you.
Gregory Rodriguez — My name is Gregory Rodriguez, born and raised in Toronto and a proud single father to a teenage son with autism. With a background in law enforcement, protection services, MMA, and hockey, I’ve dedicated my life to discipline, service, and community. I’ve seen City services decline since amalgamation, and I’m running to restore accountability, transparency, and excellence. Through my “4 Corners Program”, residents not bureaucrats will have the final say on local issues. My promise: every decision must “Make It Make Sense” – logical, community-driven, and beneficial to the majority.

Shean Sinnarajah — Shean Sinnarajah is a centre-right, results-focused candidate for City Councillor in Ward 25, Scarborough–Rouge Park. His plan is straightforward: deliver the basics, publish metrics, and fix what isn’t working. In his first months he’ll press to accelerate the Port Union Road widening, advance the Morningside Avenue extension to Steeles, fully fund practical Vision Zero upgrades, speed snow clearing, improve waste service, and streamline small-business permits. Shean will carry forward Jennifer McKelvie’s service-first priorities—advancing the Eglinton East LRT, tackling basement flooding, strengthening ravine resilience, and managing growth—while maintaining an open, accessible office in the ward’s south.
Anu Sriskandarajah — Dr. Anu Sriskandarajah is a tenured Professor at York University and has served since 2018 as the elected TDSB Trustee for Scarborough–Rouge Park. At the Board, she chaired the Director-Search Committee during leadership transitions and gained valuable governance experience that will directly benefit the residents of Ward 25. A longtime Scarborough resident and proud mom of two, Anu contends that elected experience matters. She is committed to the fair use of tax dollars, better city services that meet local needs, and the conservation of Scarborough’s green spaces through steady leadership, accountability, and meaningful public consultation.
Ashan Fernando — Having called Scarborough–Rouge Park my home for over 25 years, I have attended local schools, remained active with St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, and served as Interim Co-Chair of Port Union Winterfest, President of the West Hill–Highland Creek Lions Club, and Board Director at Surrey Place. With 24+ years of professional experience and ongoing Paralegal studies at George Brown College, I’m committed to advocating for inclusion, accessibility, and stronger communities.
Shawn Allen — Born and currently living in Scarborough–Rouge Park with my family, my experience as the founder of a successful financial services company and as an entrepreneur has prepared me for the importance of being fiscally prudent with taxpayers’ money and merging business success with social impact. I will serve in the tradition of Jennifer McKelvie, maintaining and improving our city and community, while remaining thoughtful, judicious, and frugal with tax dollars.

Neethan Shan — In addition to raising two boys with my wife, I’ve served this community for 20+ years as a youth worker, teacher, trustee, and city councillor. Having made City Hall listen to Scarborough before by pushing for the subway extension to Scarborough and bringing local jobs and investments for our parks, I know that we can make life more affordable, make our communities safer, repair our roads, and provide local opportunities for youth.

Jose Moreno — As your West Hill, Centennial, and West Rouge neighbour since 2006, as well as a registered dental hygienist and small business owner, I’ve launched a mobile clinic to serve senior, marginalized, and underserved communities. Having started my life here in 1990 in a Toronto shelter, I’m running to preserve the Rouge, ensure that residents have a real voice at City Hall, and represent our community with fairness, transparency, and integrity..

Other Ward 25 candidates that did not submit profiles by the publication deadline:

Kevin Cheatley,
Jamil Kerr,
Huy Lieu,
Jose Moreno Garcia,
Dianna Robinson,
Shemar Shirley.

Tony Stacey Centre Pollinator Garden Unveiling
2025-09-13 14:00 - 15:00 | Tony Stacey Centre, 59 Lawson Rd, Scarborough, Ontario, M1C 2J1, Canada
As recipients of a PollinateTO Grants for 2025, Rouge Butterflyway has completed their transformation of 5 gardens at the Tony Stacey Centre for Veterans.
Take a tour of the gardens and discover the variety of native plants.

Meet Rouge Butterflyway members
Learn the benefits of a pollinator garden
Celebrate with light refreshments
Community Members, Gardeners, and Volunteers are welcome

Ward 25 By-Election Candidate Forums
2025-09-13 11:30 - 13:30 | Port Union Community Recreation Centre, 5450 Lawrence Ave E, Scarborough, Ontario, M1C 3B2, Canada
The City Councillor position for Ward 25 is currently vacant. A By-Election will be held on Monday, September 29 to fill the vacancy.
The four Community Associations in the southern half of Ward 25 are hosting the following candidate forums for residents to meet candidates.

Saturday, September 13 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. – Port Union Community Centre, 5450 Lawrence Avenue East
Tuesday, September 16 from 7:00 p.m. to 9:00 p.m. – Royal Canadian Legion, 305 Morrish Road

As there are 20 registered candidates, rather than a debate, the candidate forums will feature a “candidate marketplace” where residents can meet candidates in one place, engage in conversations, and receive campaign literature.
Voting Day for the By-Election is Monday, September 29 from 10:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. Advance Voting takes place on Saturday, September 20 and Sunday, September 21 from 10:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Are you on the Voters’ List? Do you know where to vote? Check the City of Toronto’s MyVote website at myvote.toronto.ca.
All 20 registered candidates for the upcoming Ward 25 by-election were invited to submit a brief biography for this event and latest edition of The Villager:
Walter Alvarez-Bardales — Born in war-torn Guatemala, Walter Alvarez-Bardales survived civil conflict, homelessness, and learning disabilities to become a federal civil servant, MBA salutatorian and doctoral candidate in social sciences. An Afro-Indigenous immigrant, he champions equity through his Democracy Matters! YouTube channel (500K+ views) and a decade of healthcare-inclusion research. As Ward 25 councillor, he will defend accessible transit, expand mental health and community clinics, protect affordable housing, and ensure transparent and accountable governance that preserves hard-won gains while also advancing racial, cultural, and disability justice.
Anita Anandarajan — My name is Anita Anandarajan, and I have been living in this riding for 10 years. I hold a Bachelor of Science from the University of Ottawa and have completed post-graduate studies in Human Resources Management. I have worked in the community as a workforce developer and was the Ontario Liberal candidate in the 2022 and 2025 provincial elections. I am committed to serving you—listening to our community’s voices and taking a comprehensive approach to violence prevention, public safety, climate justice, and transit solutions. I will use all available city government resources to protect our residents and deliver efficient city services.
Darrell Brown — Darrell Brown has been an effective advocate for numerous groups across the decades, successfully spurring on legislative and regulatory changes. He knows how to communicate, to send the right message at the right time. His last assignment was raising $15 million during COVID to stave off the CNE’s demise. It now sits with the largest surplus in its 146-year history ($32 million). Darrell has worked in 15 countries including Southeast and Central Asia, Europe and North America addressing almost any issue thoroughly and efficiently. As a Ward 25 City Councillor, he can be your voice.
Zia Choudhary — Zia Choudhary is a proud resident of Ward 25, Scarborough–Rouge Park with over 40 years of professional and community service experience. A Realtor, Financial Advisor, Tax Professional, and Chair of the Port Union Waterfront Festival Committee, he has long served the community with dedication. Zia is running for City Councillor to support seniors, improve housing affordability, strengthen transit and infrastructure, invest in youth, and ensure fiscal responsibility. He promises open, accessible leadership that delivers real results. Vote Zia Choudhary for City Councillor.
Reza Khoshdel — Reza Khoshdel is a committed family man and longtime ward resident, raising his children with his wife in the community he serves. With a BComm, MBA, and MPA, he brings strong academic credentials and proven leadership. As Executive Director of a registered charity and President of the West Rouge Association, Reza has delivered results through grassroots leadership and advocacy. His vision is clear: safer communities, stronger city services, investment in youth and seniors, thriving local businesses, better housing, and improved transportation; because he believes these are the foundations of a stronger, more vibrant community.

Donna LaRush — Please vote for LaRush, Donna. I retired from Toronto Fire in Feb 2025 as a firefighter. I know Ward 25 well. I chaired a TDSB parents council for years. Was a founding member of an Eco protection group, helped start a Scarborough food bank and volunteered at a Scarborough out of the cold program. I started a single seniors meetup group. Together we will fight for equity, appropriate housing, a safe, well-planned community for everyone. I support local. I will make sure tax dollars are not wasted. Together we will have a vision and accomplish goals.
Brian Matthews — Amidst a crowded field of familiar faces, I offer an independent voice for Ward 25. Unlike other candidates, my focus is not on past battles but on our future. I understand that our community is poised for new growth and development. My priority is to proactively ensure that we have the necessary services—from infrastructure to community resources, including transit and public spaces—to support this growth. I’m a dedicated, hands-on leader ready to tackle our community’s challenges head-on. To learn more about my platform, visit www.electbrianmatthews.com.
Zakir Patel — Running to be your next Ward 25 Councillor. A lifelong public servant and Scarborough – Rouge Park resident. I have lived in Scarborough for more than 29 years; I’ve dedicated my career to helping families and communities thrive. As a TDSB Trustee since 2018, I’ve proudly served residents, and I remain committed to listening, advocating, and delivering results. As Councillor, I’ll ensure your tax dollars are invested with a clear value return in services and programs, address affordability, and prioritize safety by supporting police and community-led solutions. I look forward to connecting and hearing from you.
Gregory Rodriguez — My name is Gregory Rodriguez, born and raised in Toronto and a proud single father to a teenage son with autism. With a background in law enforcement, protection services, MMA, and hockey, I’ve dedicated my life to discipline, service, and community. I’ve seen City services decline since amalgamation, and I’m running to restore accountability, transparency, and excellence. Through my “4 Corners Program”, residents not bureaucrats will have the final say on local issues. My promise: every decision must “Make It Make Sense” – logical, community-driven, and beneficial to the majority.

Shean Sinnarajah — Shean Sinnarajah is a centre-right, results-focused candidate for City Councillor in Ward 25, Scarborough–Rouge Park. His plan is straightforward: deliver the basics, publish metrics, and fix what isn’t working. In his first months he’ll press to accelerate the Port Union Road widening, advance the Morningside Avenue extension to Steeles, fully fund practical Vision Zero upgrades, speed snow clearing, improve waste service, and streamline small-business permits. Shean will carry forward Jennifer McKelvie’s service-first priorities—advancing the Eglinton East LRT, tackling basement flooding, strengthening ravine resilience, and managing growth—while maintaining an open, accessible office in the ward’s south.
Anu Sriskandarajah — Dr. Anu Sriskandarajah is a tenured Professor at York University and has served since 2018 as the elected TDSB Trustee for Scarborough–Rouge Park. At the Board, she chaired the Director-Search Committee during leadership transitions and gained valuable governance experience that will directly benefit the residents of Ward 25. A longtime Scarborough resident and proud mom of two, Anu contends that elected experience matters. She is committed to the fair use of tax dollars, better city services that meet local needs, and the conservation of Scarborough’s green spaces through steady leadership, accountability, and meaningful public consultation.
Ashan Fernando — Having called Scarborough–Rouge Park my home for over 25 years, I have attended local schools, remained active with St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, and served as Interim Co-Chair of Port Union Winterfest, President of the West Hill–Highland Creek Lions Club, and Board Director at Surrey Place. With 24+ years of professional experience and ongoing Paralegal studies at George Brown College, I’m committed to advocating for inclusion, accessibility, and stronger communities.
Shawn Allen — Born and currently living in Scarborough–Rouge Park with my family, my experience as the founder of a successful financial services company and as an entrepreneur has prepared me for the importance of being fiscally prudent with taxpayers’ money and merging business success with social impact. I will serve in the tradition of Jennifer McKelvie, maintaining and improving our city and community, while remaining thoughtful, judicious, and frugal with tax dollars.

Neethan Shan — In addition to raising two boys with my wife, I’ve served this community for 20+ years as a youth worker, teacher, trustee, and city councillor. Having made City Hall listen to Scarborough before by pushing for the subway extension to Scarborough and bringing local jobs and investments for our parks, I know that we can make life more affordable, make our communities safer, repair our roads, and provide local opportunities for youth.

Jose Moreno — As your West Hill, Centennial, and West Rouge neighbour since 2006, as well as a registered dental hygienist and small business owner, I’ve launched a mobile clinic to serve senior, marginalized, and underserved communities. Having started my life here in 1990 in a Toronto shelter, I’m running to preserve the Rouge, ensure that residents have a real voice at City Hall, and represent our community with fairness, transparency, and integrity..

Other Ward 25 candidates that did not submit profiles by the publication deadline:

Kevin Cheatley,
Jamil Kerr,
Huy Lieu,
Jose Moreno Garcia,
Dianna Robinson,
Shemar Shirley.

53rd Annual "Wonders of the Earth" Gem & Mineral Show
2025-09-13 10:00 - 2025-09-14 17:00 | Highland Hall, 1265 Military Trail, Scarborough, Ontario, M1C 3A8, Canada
Saturday Sept 13 10am-6pm, and Sunday Sept 14 11am-5pm.
The Gem and Mineral Club of Scarborough is holding its 53rd annual Wonders of the Earth Gem and Mineral Show at Highland Hall of the U. of T. – Scarborough Campus on Sept. 13 & 14, 2025. The club is a not-for-profit organization and has been in existence since 1967.
Join us for Live, silent, and kids’ actions, door prizes, kids’ quarry, Learning Centre (demos, workshops, and speakers), member sales area, shipping (gemstones, jewellery making supplies, mineral and fossil samples, craft supplies, etc.), museum and member displays, and so much more.
This year, the Environmental and Physical Sciences Student Association of U of T – Scarborough Campus is co-sponsoring the event.

Port United - Summer Concert Series 2025
2025-07-20 08:00 - 17:00 | Port Union Community Recreation Centre, 5450 Lawrence Ave E, Scarborough, Ontario, M1C 3B2, Canada
On Sunday July 6, 13 and 20, CCRA, WRCA and WRSRA present free musical entertainment at Port Union Community Centre. We are really excited to bring two new bands to the lineup this year:
On July 6, local pop and classic rock band Fossil Fire perform.
On July 13, The Swing Junkies bring their smooth vocals, swing and upbeat music.
Finally on July 20, returning favourite Port United Band will be playing pop, rock and reggae covers.
There is something for everyone! Bring your families, neighbours, friends and lawn chairs. Come for the experience, the treats at intermission, but mostly come for the music!
All shows begin at 7 p.m., performances are two sets with an intermission, rain or shine. Looking forward to seeing everyone!

The Swing Junkies - Summer Concert Series 2025
2025-07-13 08:00 - 17:00 | Port Union Community Recreation Centre, 5450 Lawrence Ave E, Scarborough, Ontario, M1C 3B2, Canada

Fossil Fire - Summer Concert Series 2025
2025-07-06 19:00 | Port Union Community Recreation Centre, 5450 Lawrence Ave E, Scarborough, Ontario, M1C 3B2, Canada

Canada Day at the Legion
2025-07-01 | Royal Canadian Legion, 305 Morrish Rd, Scarborough, Ontario, M1C 1E9, Canada

West Hill Inaugural Community Day
2025-06-28 10:00 - 14:00 | West Hill Collegiate Outdoor Field, 350 Morningside Ave, Scarborough, Ontario, M1E 3G3, Canada
A bouncing castle, face painting, live entertainment, prize booths, food vendors, and outdoor games!

Run for the Lions
2025-06-21 09:00 - 10:30 | Port Union Village Common Park, 105 Bridgend St, Scarborough, Ontario, M1C 5G5, Canada
The West Hill – Highland Creek Lions Club is proud to be back organizing the Run for the Lions as part of the Port Union Waterfront Festival.
This 5k Run/Walk or 10k Run opens for check-in at 7:30 am, then warmup at 8:45 am, and starts at 9:00 am

IGNITE: STEM Networking Night - Toronto
2025-06-17 17:00 - 19:30 | Sam Ibrahim Building, 1050 Military Trail, Scarborough, Ontario, M1C 1G9, Canada
Join us for an evening of connection, mentorship, and meaningful conversations at IGNITE: STEM Networking Night!
IGNITE is more than just a networking event—it’s a movement. Whether you’re looking to advance your career, share your expertise, or be part of a community creating real change, this is the place to be.

What to Expect:

Welcome Panel: Hear from seasoned career panel
Systems Change Workshop: Attendees will participate in a systems change workshop (pre- and post-event survey and brief activity on day of event)
Mentorship: Connect with industry professionals and accomplished leaders who can guide your STEM journey.
Networking: Meet people from inside and outside your industry, expanding your reach as you create lasting connections.
Discussions: Join the dialogue on how to create meaningful change in STEM—challenging gender roles, redefining identity, and breaking barriers.

Limited Seats Available
Due to the limited space at IGNITE and its intimate and impactful experience, we kindly ask that if you are unable to attend after securing a ticket, you inform us as soon as possible.
This will allow us to maximize attendance and ensure that as many people as possible can benefit from this event. Please let us know at kwallace@scwist.ca as soon as possible so we can release your ticket.

Heritage Festival
2025-06-14 10:00 - 16:00 | Highland Creek Community Park, 3500 Ellesmere Rd, Scarborough, Ontario, M1C 1H5, Canada

CWL St Joseph Parish Bazaar
2025-06-14 09:30 - 14:00 | St Joseph’s Parish, 200 Morrish Rd, Scarborough, Ontario, M1C 1E8, Canada
Baked goods, plant sales, international foods, many vendors.
Please bring your own shopping bags.

Opening Reception: Threads of Refuge
2025-06-11 11:45 - 13:45 | Instructional Centre, UTSC, 1095 Miliitary Trail, Scarborough, Ontario, M1C 1A4, Canada
Join us to celebrate the opening of the exhibition Threads of Refuge in the Instructional Centre Vitrines at U of T Scarborough. Featuring intimate portraits of refugees Shamso Elmi, Sahra Gelle, Mariam Manai, and Ezat Mossallanejad, by photographer Anthony Gebrehiwot, this lunchtime reception offers the opportunity to view the exhibition and listen to the connected stories. Co-curators Thy Phu and Saaz Taher will introduce the project, Anthony Gebrehiwot will deliver a talk about his work and process, and several of the portrait participants will speak about their experience. Remarks and talks will begin at 12:15 pm, followed by a catered lunch.
This program is free and open to the public. Space limited, registration required. Registration closes June 2, 2025.
If you have accommodation needs, please let us know through the registration form or by contacting dmg.utsc@utoronto.ca. Seating will be available. This program will take place in the atrium of the Instructional Centre at U of T Scarborough; the building is wheelchair accessible.
—–
SCHEDULE
11:45: Arrivals and exhibition viewing
12:15 pm: Introductory remarks by co-curators Thy Phu and Saaz Taher; Alison Mountz, Interim Vice-Principal, Research & Innovation at U of T Scarborough; and Ann MacDonald, Executive Director/Chief Curator, Doris McCarthy Gallery
12:30 pm: Artist’s talk by Anthony Gebrehiwot
12:45 pm: Guided discussion with portrait participants
1 pm: Lunch
—–
ABOUT THE EXHIBITION
On view in the Instructional Centre Vitrines at U of T Scarborough, Threads of Refuge (June 11 – December 6, 2025) explores the impacts and transformations resulting from forced displacement. The featured portraits unveils the layered complexity of refugee experiences, where the anguish of displacement coexists with unwavering spiritual faith, aspiration for reinvention, and the hope of preserving ties to community. Curated by Thy Phu and Saaz Taher, the exhibition is presented by the Doris McCarthy Gallery in partnership with Agir Montreal, Midaynta Community Services, and University of Montreal. Generously supported by the Toronto Arts Council, Canada Council for the Arts, and Social Sciencies and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC).
Threads of Refuge is one of the outcomes of Refugee States, a SSHRC-funded research-creation project that preserves oral histories and creates digital stories. By centering the voices and perspectives of refugees and migrants, the project challenges dominant narratives about forced migration in antiracist and queer- and trans-affirming ways. Since 2022, in collaboration with peer researchers, community partners, and artists across Toronto and Montreal, the project has supported the creation of a living archive of oral histories, digital stories, and creative interventions by and for refugee communities. Refugee States is co-directed by Edward Ou Jin Lee (Canada Research Chair and Associate Professor in the School of Social Work at Universite de Montreal) and Thy Phu (Distinguished Professor of Race, Diaspora, and Visual Justice at the University of Toronto Scarborough).

Spring Into Life Semi-Annual Poetry Event
2025-05-31 19:00 - 21:00 | St. Dunstan of Canterbury Anglican Church, 56 Lawson Rd, Scarborough, Ontario, M1C 1P7, Canada
Featuring:

Vienna Bombardieri – Poet
Adele Koehnke – Poet/Storyteller
Catherine Reidt – Pianist

Coffee, Tea, and Treats for $2/person

Pokemon Club at the TPL
2025-05-31 11:00 - 12:00 | Toronto Public Library – Highland Creek Branch, 3550 Ellesmere Rd, Scarborough, Ontario, M1C 3Z2, Canada
For Children ages 6-12.
Come take part in a fun scavenger hunt across the library. Engage with staff and find out where all your favourite pokemon are hiding.
Successful scavengers will get to choose one pokemon card to take home with them. (One card per child)
Colouring pages, and 3D Printing technology will be on display as well.

Avenues Policy Review: Virtual Public Meeting
2025-05-28 18:30 - 20:30 | Ontario
The Avenues Policy Review is now in Phase 2. Join the Study team for a virtual public meeting on Wednesday, May 28, 2025 from 6:30 to 8 p.m. We’ll provide a recap of Phase 1 of the project, discuss emerging directions for Phase 2, and outline the potential project timeline for the next phase of work. The meeting will include a presentation from City staff and a question-and-answer period.
Register for the meeting.

Legends of Orton Park
2025-05-27 19:00 - 21:00 | St. Mark’s United Church Scarborough, 115 Orton Park Road, Scarborough, Ontario, M1G 3G9, Canada
Brian MacFarlane, a life long member of the Curran Hall community will share stories of the people, places and events that have shaped this amazing Scarborough community since 1955.

LAUNCH - Summer 2025 Edition
2025-05-27 16:00 - 19:00 | Highland Hall, 1265 Military Trail, Scarborough, Ontario, M1C 3A8, Canada
LAUNCH is Arts & Science Co-op’s flagship student hiring event at UTSC; where employers engage directly with students from over 50 programs including:

Arts & Humanities
Computer, Mathematics and Statistics
Psychological & Health Studies
Physical & Environmental Sciences
Life Sciences

Why participate at LAUNCH?

Meet over 250 talented students seeking co-op work terms

Promote your brand and culture

Increase applications by engaging in person

Who should participate at LAUNCH ?
Employers interested in recruiting students to fill paid co-op work terms.
What can you expect at LAUNCH?

One table per employer (up to 3 participants)
Light snacks and refreshments
Free parking (lots G & H)

Join us, and be in good company
Partners from a variety of industry sectors participate in LAUNCH every four months.
Join employers from healthcare, finance and insurance, technology, government, education and others.
Past participants include organizations such as Amazon Robotics, Nokia, IBM, CAMH, UHN, Baycrest, EQ Bank, BMO, RBC, Toronto Hydro and many more.
We hope to see you at our LAUNCH this summer!

Please note the last day to register is Sunday, May 18 at 11:59 PM*
Please note that your registration is an expression of interest. Our team will connect with registrants to ensure alignment with event goals and student interests.
Questions?
Please do not hesitate to reach out to our Arts & Science Co-op team at cooppartner.utsc@utoronto.ca.

HCCA Monthly Board Meeting
2025-05-14 18:00 - 20:00 | Royal Canadian Legion, 305 Morrish Rd, Scarborough, Ontario, M1C 1E9, Canada

Community Environment Day
2025-05-11 10:00 - 14:00 | Rogue Hill GO Station, 6251 Lawrence Ave E, Scarborough, ON, M1C 5H7, Canada
Jennifer McKelvie will be hosting a Community Environment Day on Sunday, May 11 at the Rouge Hill GO Station (6251 Lawrence Ave. E) from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. You can drop off electronic and household hazardous waste, donate items for reuse, and pick up free bagged compost.Every year, the City of Toronto manages close to 900,000 tonnes of waste. Last year, community events diverted over 75,000 kilograms of electronics, 265,000 kilograms of household hazardous waste, and almost 75,000 kilograms of reusable household goods from landfills.You can find the full list of what you can and cannot bring online.

Intro to Dungeons & Dragons for Adults
2025-05-10 14:00 - 16:00 | Toronto Public Library – Highland Creek Branch, 3550 Ellesmere Rd, Scarborough, Ontario, M1C 3Z2, Canada
Calling all adventurers!
Come heed the call and learn the basics of Dungeons & Dragons. Learn the ins and outs of one of the worlds most popular Tabletop Roleplaying Games.
No experience required, this is an absolute beginner friendly event.
No need to bring characters or character sheets. Pre-generated characters will be provided.
This program is intended for an adult audience.
Space is limited, please visit or call the Highland Creek Branch at 416-396-8876 to register.

Book Club
2025-05-09 14:00 - 15:00 | Toronto Public Library – Highland Creek Branch, 3550 Ellesmere Rd, Scarborough, Ontario, M1C 3Z2, Canada
Highland Creek Friday Afternoon Book Club at the Libary.
Join us on the second Friday of the month from 2-3pm to discuss books in a fun and friendly atmosphere. Members can place their own holds or ask Staff for a copy of the book.

Pub Sunday at the Legion
2025-04-27 15:00 - 19:00 | Royal Canadian Legion, 305 Morrish Rd, Scarborough, Ontario, M1C 1E9, Canada
April 27 3-7pm, branch opens at 1pm
Food Tickets: $10.00 purchase one week ahead, served at 5pm
Live Band: Fossil Fire
