Francis Tomkins (they/them) is an interdisciplinary artist whose practice includes animation, collage, zine making, and workshop facilitation. They have a BFA in Cross-Disciplinary Arts: Publications from OCAD University and have worked within the arts and accessibility sectors at Tangled Art + Disability, StopGap Foundation and Toronto Queer Film Festival. Their work has been featured by Toronto Animated Image Society (TAIS), RestFest Film Festival, and Arts Etobicoke. Francis is passionate about how art can be used to create and sustain connected communities.

Treasures of Ours
Sharon Zarita
Presented by: Sharon Zarita
Ethnicity: Kenyan
Treasure: Maasai Shuka (Swahili for Maasai Shawl)
Maasai Shuka is a shawl adorned and preserved by the Indigenous Maasai community of East Africa. It is a reminder of the colourful and vibrant nature of my people especially in the gloomy days of Winter. While it may not be warm enough for the snowfall because it was designed for the tropical rainfall, it is a reminder to wear the beauty of my African roots with delight in this land. It is my little piece of home that stays with me wherever I go.
How to pass it on: Maasai Shuka is commonly shared in the family and used as a throw or living room blanket. It is often gifted to an E.African travelling abroad as a heritage keepsake.