In this special series called The Humans of Jane's Walk, produced in celebration of the 10th annual Jane's Walk festival we will feature profiles of some of the amazing people who lead the walks in the neighbourhoods they know and love. 

How did you get involved as a Walk Leader?

“I have lived in Bloordale for the past four years and always loved it. Just over a year ago I had orthopedic surgery. When I was finally able to start getting around again, I was much slower, but it gave me an amazing opportunity to appreciate my neighbourhood, places I had whizzed past before were newly discovered and appreciated. I have really enjoyed uncovering hidden gems, particularly the urban art in the neighbourhood. Recently a friend commented on one of Instagram posts and suggested I lead a Jane's Walk to share my knowledge and favourite urban art in the area ­ and so I decided, why not!” -- Tanya Rumble

More Than Art Blooms: Exploring the People, Food, and Art of Bloordale

Tanya will lead a walk called "More Than Art Blooms: Exploring the People, Food, and Art of Bloordale" this year. Bloordale is home to a diverse mix of people, as well as land use including a number of large industrial plots, some of which are still in use, others are in transition. Like the Tower Automotive Building on Sterling Road that once transformed will be the new home to the Museum of Contemporary Canadian Art slated to open in 2017. This walk will expose you to the amazing global cuisine, laneway graffiti, and community members of Bloordale. The walk will be 60-75 minutes, a non-strenuous walk, suitable for all ages.

Jane's Walk celebrates its 10th anniversary

Jane’s Walk is an annual festival of free, citizen-led walking tours inspired by Jane Jacobs. The walks get people to tell stories about their communities, explore their cities, and connect with neighbours. The 10th annual Jane's Walk festival takes place on May 6th, 7th, and 8th in neigbourhoods all across the GTA.

This year, Jane’s Walk decided to tilt the festival. Please donate $10 or more to keep Jane's Walk walking, share a story or help shape one by leading a walk! More information at www.janeswalk.org/toronto.