A Proud Moment for the Oshawa Folk Arts Council
The Oshawa Folk Arts Council (OFAC) is deeply honoured to have been inducted into the Oshawa Walk of Fame during a heartfelt ceremony held on Thursday, November 6th, 2025 at the Jubilee Pavilion. This prestigious recognition celebrates individuals and organizations that have made lasting contributions to Oshawa’s cultural, social, and civic life – and we are truly humbled to be among them.
Representing OFAC at the ceremony were members of our current Board of Directors, life members, past presidents, and pavilion representatives – a true reflection of our organization’s enduring community spirit. The award was accepted on behalf of the Oshawa Folk Arts Council by current President, Tanya Lushney, who expressed gratitude to the Walk of Fame committee for acknowledging the power of culture and community.
Honoured Among Oshawa’s Finest
We are proud to share this year’s Walk of Fame induction with a group of remarkable individuals whose achievements have shaped Oshawa’s identity and spirit:
Sherry Bassin – Esteemed hockey executive, community leader, and mentor whose dedication to sport and youth development has inspired generations.
Terry Johnston – Beloved broadcaster and storyteller, whose voice and community involvement have made an enduring mark on local media and civic life.
Katie Taylor – Accomplished business leader and philanthropist, whose work exemplifies excellence, integrity, and commitment to community growth.
Sharon Clark – Extraordinary Oshawa volunteer whose five decades of dedication to children in need ensured every child supported by the Durham Children’s Aid Society could experience a joyful Christmas.
To stand alongside these exceptional honourees is both humbling and inspiring. Together, they reflect the very best of what makes Oshawa a city of heart, resilience, and pride.
Celebrating Multiculturalism & Diversity
For more than 50 years, the Oshawa Folk Arts Council has celebrated and promoted the beauty of our city’s multicultural heritage through Fiesta Week – a beloved tradition that unites residents and visitors in a vibrant celebration of food, music, dance, and community.
This recognition is not only for our organization, but for every pavilion, every volunteer, and every community member who has shared their culture and helped make Oshawa a shining example of inclusion and respect.
Without our Pavilion Members, there would be no Fiesta Week, and without Fiesta Week, the Oshawa Folk Arts Council would not be what it is today. Each year, their tireless volunteerism and dedication remind us that cultural understanding is built through shared experiences and open hearts.
Every pavilion, event, and festival moment is made possible by the hundreds of volunteers who give their time and energy to keep our cultural traditions alive. This award is a testament to their passion and commitment.
Through decades of teamwork and community involvement, these volunteers have helped build bridges across cultures, ensuring that Oshawa remains a city where diversity is celebrated and where every resident can feel a sense of belonging.
As the names of new honourees are etched into the Oshawa Walk of Fame, we are reminded that our city’s strength lies in its people: in their stories, in their generosity, and in their shared pride for Oshawa.
Being recognized alongside other outstanding community champions reinforces our belief that cultural celebration and civic pride go hand in hand. We are proud to contribute to Oshawa’s rich legacy and to continue building connections that strengthen our city for generations to come.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Oshawa Rotary Club the Oshawa Walk of Fame organizing committee, and the visionary leadership of Chair Louise Parkes and Co-Chair Emmy Ci for making this event possible.
This honour belongs to every performer, organizer, pavilion member, and volunteer who has shared their culture through the Oshawa Folk Arts Council and Fiesta Week.
Together, we continue to walk proudly – celebrating who we are, where we come from, and the community we build together.
