The Maker Market: Art for Newcomers 

Olesia Omelchenko came from Ukraine in 2023. She started crocheting over 25 years ago. Inspired by the talents of her great-great grandmother who she never met, Olesia was taught by a woman in her city who saw her passion for the craft.

Maria is a fourth-year neuroscience student. She loves all forms of art but specializes in charcoal drawings that capture depth, emotion, and raw expression through the interplay of light and shadow. She loves the way charcoal allows her to create bold contrasts and delicate details, bringing subjects to life with a sense of movement and intensity.

Sobia Hussain is the founder of Heart Hive Collective–creative mindful workshops designed to nurture the child in us. Since 2000, she has had the joy of inspiring and teaching hundreds of individuals—ranging from imaginative young children to playful vibrant seniors—across various communities in Ontario. With each session, Sobia aims to foster a welcoming space where creativity becomes a pathway to self-discovery and meaningful connections. Her strong vision is rooted in the belief that collective healing happens through shared experiences, artistic expression, and playful curiosity. Sobia recently traded the bustle of Toronto for the quiet charm of LaSalle, Ontario, where she’s embarked on a creative homesteading journey alongside her quirky family.