The Spring Arts Market 2025 at Humber Lakeshore Student Welcome and Resource Centre is more than just a place to shop. It's a celebration of local vendors, artisans and small businesses with a unique focus on charitable giving.
The event was held on March 29 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. This year's market brought together 22 local vendors showcasing their handmade goods in support of the Jean Augustine Centre for Young Women’s Empowerment.
A local charity that works to provide young women with the tools they need to succeed in both their academic and personal lives.
This year’s market not only offered the public the chance to discover handmade products but also provided a platform for vendors to grow their businesses while giving back to the community.
Nadine Finley, the academic manager at Humber Polytechnic, reflected on the market's ability to combine local arts with charitable efforts.
“It's a great feeling to be able to give back while also supporting local businesses and artists,” Finley said.
She said the event was all about bringing the community into Humber’s spaces, showcasing local talent and supporting a cause that directly impacts the community.
“Every dollar that is spent with the vendor stays with that vendor, and 100% of the vendor table fees are made as a direct donation,” she said.
One of the vendors at this year's market was Savoya Jewelry, founded by Doris Chen, where she has been making custom jewellery for seven years.
The market was an exciting opportunity for Chen to engage with new customers and expand her brand.
“I got to meet a couple of customers who got to know my brand, and some even asked for my business card for future orders,” Chen said.
She saw the market as an opportunity to connect with new customers while also contributing to a cause that impacts young women's lives in a meaningful way.
“I really support what they stand for,” Chen said.
Temilayo Odunewu, a vendor at the event with her crocheting brand, Virgo Yarn.
Odunewu has been crocheting since she was seven years old and brings her love for her crochet creations to the market.
“I'm a very huge supporter of local business, not just because I sell, but because I like handmade stuff. I am always interested in the arts and anything that people make with their hands,” she said.
Participation in this event allowed Odunewu to connect with other local businesses and share her passion for her craft while also supporting a local charity.
“It's admirable that they put these local businesses together,” she said.
