Park People’s Executive Director, Erika Nikolai, has been honoured with the Distinguished Individual Award from World Urban Parks—an international recognition that celebrates her leadership and the growing national movement Park People has helped build here in Canada.
Why are events in parks important? How do grants fit into Park People’s larger goals for creating change in city parks?
TD Park People Grants support local leaders to organize environmental education, sustainability or stewardship events that bring people together across Canada.
Learn more about green social prescribing, an evolving practice that encourages individuals to reestablish connections with nature and one another to enhance their mental, physical, and social wellbeing.
A reflection on the BEING BLACK IN PUBLIC Survey Report, exploring how Black communities experience parks and public spaces, and what fosters joy and belonging.
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Dynamic Leader, Community Advocate and Changemaker, Thorncliffe Park Autism Support Network
Analytical, energetic, and detail oriented, Shakhlo Sharipova is a passionate leader who thrives on turning ideas into action. With a democratic leadership style, she believes in collaboration, empathy, and empowering others to drive meaningful change. Her work focuses on bridging gaps in community services by organizing civic engagement initiatives, securing city grants, and leading fundraising efforts to bring projects to life.
A strong advocate for disability rights and women’s empowerment—particularly in marginalized communities—she lives by the principle: “Nothing about us without us.” Shakhlo prioritizes action over words, working hands-on to create inclusive, sustainable solutions. Her motto, “From a local movement to a global change,” reflects her commitment to grassroots impact with far-reaching influence.
Among her key achievements are spearheading projects to develop and maintain green community spaces, ensuring they serve as vibrant hubs for social connection and environmental stewardship. Whether through policy advocacy, community organizing, or project management, Shakhlo is dedicated to building a more equitable and engaged society—one initiative at a time.Shakhlo Sharipova received the Agnes Macphail award 2023 and the City of Toronto’s Access, Equity and Human Rights Awards in 2023 “Disability Access Award”. She is the Founder and Executive Director of TPASN Thorncliffe Park Autism Support Network, and the leader of the Coalition of Women in Leadership grassroots group.