Joanna Prescod, a dedicated arts and cultural worker from Tkaronto/Toronto and Scarborough, embodies the spirit of creative placemaking. Her journey in the arts landscape spans transformative roles and impactful initiatives that redefine community engagement.
At the acclaimed Toronto Ward Museum, Joanna served as the Program Coordinator, orchestrating the dynamic Block by Block project in the Agincourt-Scarborough enclave. As the Lead Curator, she meticulously curated three years of research, highlighting narratives of migration, life, and change into the thought-provoking "Stories of Migration, Life and Change in Four Neighbourhoods” exhibit at TD Gallery.
Joanna's work transcends mere curation; it delves deep into cross-cultural experiences, enriching visitor and participant engagement. With a steadfast commitment to equity, she integrates community insights and stories into every facet of program development and evaluation. Her approach fosters nuanced dialogues, marked by care and critical inquiry, igniting transformative conversations within diverse communities.
A beacon of inclusivity and sustainability, Joanna champions projects that amplify marginalized voices while fostering economic and cultural opportunities across Scarborough and Toronto. Her intellectual prowess extends beyond the confines of traditional discourse; she has lent her insights as a panelist for discussions such as “Placemaking and Climate Change with ICLEI” and “Black is King: A Dialogue on the History and Art of Black Aesthetics and Globalization” with Culture Days.
In her pursuit of storytelling excellence, Joanna founded Social Uniforms, a visionary textile-based workshop exploring themes of home, belonging, and identity. Her academic journey, marked by a BA in Culture and Expressions and an MA in Humanities from York University, along with a post-graduate certificate in Culture and Heritage Site Management, serves as the bedrock of her intellectual curiosity and creative endeavors. Joanna Prescod stands as a testament to the transformative power of art and culture in shaping inclusive and vibrant communities.