Facilitated by Adam Benn.
Contact 416-324-4100 x 5283 / abenn(at)sherbourne.on.ca for more details.

Essence is a youth-centred group where queer, trans and/or questioning youth gather to uncover, discover and recover our deeper selves.  Come learn, socialize and share wisdom through workshops, guest speakers and discussions about different non-denominational and queer-positive ideas and practicies of sprituality, faith and community.

Facilitator's Bio:
Adam is a black and queer activist, born and raised in Toronto, Canada. He has had the privilege of working with youth in many communities across Toronto, including Malvern, Perth-Randolph, Davenport-Perth, Jane and Finch, Blake-Jones and Regent Park. Currently, he is working with LGBTTI2SAQQ youth in both the Black Queer Youth and Alphabet Soup groups at SOY.

Growing up, Adam was exposed and submersed in the Catholic and Lutheran faiths. Curiosity around uncovering the “truth” led to exploration of his spirituality through other faiths, such as Islam and Wicca. After completing his undergrad, he continued this exploration in England while working at a Tibetan Buddhist retreat centre. This exposure to multiple faiths and beliefs has allowed him to uncover different elements of spirituality, and learn more about himself as a person and as a human being. This diversity has taught him to view spirituality as a deeply personal and individual experience that is to be honoured and respected.

As a self-proclaimed “conflict worker”, Adam completed his Honours Bachelors of Art at McMaster University in Anthropology and Peace Studies. He is currently completing his Masters of Arts in Conflict Analysis and Management at Royal Roads University in Victoria, BC. His interests include reading, writing, movies, music, meditation and fitness. Adam is also Certified Personal Trainer