Archives: Collections

Karen Kain

Karen Kain worked as the Artistic Director of the National Ballet for 16 years. Kain began her career showcasing her passion and dedication to ballet by starring as the Swan Queen in Swan Lake and quickly thereafter becoming a Principal Dancer.

Verna Johnston

Between operating a boarding home for Indigenous youth in Toronto and playing a foundational role at the Native Canadian Centre of Toronto, Verna Johnston’s community leadership has shaped generations.

Angela James

Known as the “Wayne Gretsky of women’s hockey,” Angela James is known for her athletic excellence across Toronto, Canada, and the world. Her passion for the sport has propelled the popularity and recognition of women’s hockey.

Jane Jacobs

Jane Jacobs devoted her life’s works to fighting for cities that are designed for people and quality of life. Her advocacy and academic accomplishments shaped Toronto’s social and physical landscape as we know it.

Gar Yin Hune

Gar Yin Hune, escaping a war back home, toured Canada performing Cantonese Opera at the age of 19. Hune’s troupe’s performances held gathering space for flourishing Chinese-Canadian communities across various Chinatowns.

Rowena Hume

Rowena Hume co-founded the first birth control clinic in Canada and was the first president of the Women’s College Hospital.

Jennifer Hodge de Silva

Hodge de Silva’s commitment to storytelling and representation broke barriers in the Canadian filmmaking industry.

Slova Greenberg

Slova Greenberg was a foundational advocate for healthcare, women’s empowerment, and elder care in Toronto. Today, her impact is seen through the success of Mount Sinai Hospital, the Baycrest Centre, and more.

Emma Goldman

Emma Goldman dedicated her life to anti-war activism and social justice organizing. Her lectures on anarchist philosophies attracted thousands and fostered dedicated community organizing networks.

Mary Fix

Through her trailblazing career of firsts, Fix championed community-led development and civic historical preservation that continues to influence Toronto today.