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1 week ago | 
calgaryguardian.com | Emilea Semancik
Esteban Herrera is an internationally acclaimed pianist and composer, celebrated for his unique voice in contemporary jazz. Based in Calgary, Herrera leads multiple musical projects, including the Esteban Herrera Trio—known for its dynamic blend of piano, double bass, and drums—and the Esteban Herrera Quintet, which expands the sound with trumpet and saxophone and is set to release a new album this year.
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1 week ago | 
torontoguardian.com | Emilea Semancik
The Children’s Aid Society of Toronto (CAST) has been dedicated to protecting and supporting children since 1891, but one of its standout initiatives, the Soul Journey Mentorship Program, goes beyond safety—it fosters identity, confidence, and connection for Black youth in care.
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1 week ago | 
montrealguardian.com | Emilea Semancik
Montreal’s vibrant streets, hidden gems, and cultural hotspots come to life through Explore 514, a fast-growing Instagram page curated by local content creator Sarah. With a keen eye for aesthetics and a passion for showcasing the city’s rich diversity, Explore 514 highlights everything from trendy cafes and scenic neighbourhoods to community events and must-visit small businesses.
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1 week ago | 
calgaryguardian.com | Emilea Semancik
Chris Fodor has filled a surprising gap in Calgary’s vibrant culinary landscape by establishing City & Country Urban Winery + Event Venue, the city’s first and only urban winery. Driven by a passion for wine and community, Fodor and his wife Karen identified a disconnect in a city known for its appreciation of local, artisanal products—Calgarians had nowhere to experience winemaking firsthand without travelling to traditional wine regions.
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2 weeks ago | 
calgaryguardian.com | Emilea Semancik
Sandra Sutter is a Calgary-based, award-winning Métis singer-songwriter, poet, and filmmaker whose journey of self-discovery has deeply shaped her art. Raised in a non-Indigenous family, Sutter later reconnected with her Métis roots, embarking on a powerful path of cultural reclamation—an experience shared by many Indigenous people whose heritage was disrupted by time and circumstance. Today, she is a passionate advocate for Indigenous culture and rights.
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2 weeks ago | 
vancouverguardian.com | Emilea Semancik
After more than a decade of dedication to her craft, Heather Ferguson has emerged as a compelling voice in the jazz scene, collaborating with acclaimed musicians across Victoria, Vancouver, and Toronto. Her journey represents a remarkable second act – one she approaches with infectious enthusiasm and unwavering commitment.
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2 weeks ago | 
torontoguardian.com | Emilea Semancik
Toronto-based comedian Dair Shendale brings a dynamic blend of storytelling and humour to the stage, captivating audiences with his cheeky insights and relatable anecdotes. Influenced by comedic legends like George Carlin, Richard Pryor, and Robin Williams, as well as his father Ian Shendale, Dair has carved out his own space in the comedy world with a style rooted in storytelling enhanced by sharp punchlines. How would you describe your comedy style? I’ve always been a storyteller.
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2 weeks ago | 
calgaryguardian.com | Emilea Semancik
Fiona Ackerman was born to be an artist. Of course she was! She instills all the traits of an authentic creative being: curiosity, open-mindedness, perseverance. She’s experimental, she’s unafraid, and she’s constantly learning. The fact that her Mother is a writer and her Father is a painter doesn’t hurt either. Every exhibition that Fiona paints is different. Different themes and thoughts are occupying her mind, and she’s brave enough to allow the work in the studio to follow.
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2 weeks ago | 
montrealguardian.com | Emilea Semancik
Ghyslene Lablack is a dynamic content creator known for her bold, unfiltered voice and vibrant digital presence. Based in Montreal, Lablack has built a loyal following across platforms through her fearless takes on food, culture, beauty, identity, and everyday life. Blending humour with honesty, she creates engaging content that resonates with audiences seeking authenticity and representation.
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2 weeks ago | 
vancouverguardian.com | Emilea Semancik
Marpole Oakridge Family Place (MOFP) is a vibrant community organization dedicated to supporting families, caregivers, and seniors in South Vancouver. Since 1978, MOFP has provided inclusive programs that promote connection, learning, and well-being for people of all ages and backgrounds. We spoke with Program Coordinator Lindy-Ann Clarke to find out more about what they do. Describe your charity/non-profit/volunteer work in a few sentences.
