This August, the TTC is proud to celebrate Caribbean Heritage Month with the theme, "Moving to the Rhythm of Toronto."
Caribbean communities have helped shape Toronto's identity through generations of culture, music, food, art, entrepreneurship, public service, and community leadership. Their influence can be seen, and felt, across the city.
Caribbean Heritage Month is an opportunity to recognize the cultural energy that helps move Toronto forward, while celebrating the employees and communities who are a part of that story.
To mark the month, we're highlighting TTC employees of Caribbean heritage and inviting them to share what “moving to the rhythm of Toronto” means to them, how working at the TTC connects them to the city, and how their Caribbean heritage shapes that experience.
Stephen
Subway Operator, Wilson Division
"For me, moving to the rhythm of Toronto means embracing the city's cultural diversity while staying connected to my Caribbean roots through festivals, food, soca, and steel pan music.
Working at the TTC for more than 14 years has allowed me to connect with people from every corner of Toronto and experience the city's vibrant diversity firsthand. During Caribbean celebrations like Carnival and Trinbago, I see Toronto come alive with the colour, energy, and spirit of Caribbean culture, making my heritage an important part of the city's rhythm."
Feleicia
Operations Supervisor, Streetcar Transportation
"Caribbean communities are a vital part of Toronto’s heartbeat, bringing energy through music, food, art, festivals, and community spirit. From reggae, soca, calypso, and steelpan to the Toronto Caribbean Carnival, they help shape the city’s unique rhythm.
As a Streetcar Supervisor, I experience that rhythm every day by supporting operators and customers across Toronto. My Caribbean heritage has instilled values of community, resilience, and service, shaping how I connect with others and helping me contribute to a transit system that keeps the city moving."
Brandon
LRT Operator, Black Creek Division
"As a Canadian with West Indian roots, moving to the rhythm of Toronto means blending the opportunities of a global city with the values, traditions, and spirit of Caribbean culture. Whether it’s enjoying soca and reggae or sharing food with friends and family, these experiences bring joy, resilience, and connection to everyday life.
Toronto’s rhythm isn’t just one beat; it’s many cultures moving together, and Caribbean communities are an important part of that soundtrack."
Shelliann
Bus Operator, Arrow Road Division
"For over 30 years, I’ve proudly moved to the rhythm of Toronto: building my career with the TTC, raising my family, and finding a strong sense of community along the way, while staying connected to my Jamaican roots.
I've built lasting connections through the vibrant Caribbean community within the TTC, which has made a large city feel smaller and more personal.
Jamaica’s national motto, “Out of Many, One People,” reflects the spirit I see in Toronto every day: diverse cultures coming together, despite our differences. I’m proud to bring the warmth, resilience, and energy of my Jamaican heritage to my work and help create a city where everyone belongs."
Check out Shelliann’s Staff Spotlight to learn more about her work at the TTC.
Joel
Provincial Offences Officer
"Since immigrating from Jamaica to Toronto at age nine, I’ve carried the Jamaican values of respect, kindness, and hard work with me throughout my life. My heritage continues to shape who I am, and I take pride in sharing my culture. Mentioning I’m Jamaican often sparks an instant connection, whether it’s a story about a trip to Jamaica, a love of reggae music, or Jamaican food.
Those everyday interactions and stopping in places like Little Jamaica connect me to the city's rhythm and remind me how deeply Caribbean culture is woven into Toronto’s identity."
