By Jessica Cianchino, Miss York Region World 2018

In the Greater Toronto Area, downtown Markham is the newest downtown.  This is my city!  Markham has many diverse cultures, many thriving and expanding businesses, and a wide range of entertainment for people of all ages and ethnicities.  And this small town turned big city, like myself, is just beginning.

Markham’s potential is well known.  As Canada’s High Tech Capital the area is a great place to live and work, and relax after work – its easy to find fun here.  My growing city has come to life with the development of a new and impressive downtown core, and this new commercial section hosts many modern attractions.  Cineplex VIP Cinema, as well as other diverse restaurants and boutiques are why my family and friends love going downtown.  Also, a merry-go-round designed specifically for the city incorporates all Canadian-themed sculptures. Experiencing the Pride of Canada Carousel is yet another reason why people should come see the amazing attractions in downtown Markham.

Property developers in Markham prove they are environmentally aware with every new building they erect; the Remington Group encourages green commercial developments. This development group set-up their own Environmental Quality Control program in an attempt to emphasize the importance of preserving the environment while expediently developing the downtown core. Remington Group’s green work was awarded LEED ® which is a fold status for residential and commercial buildings. This organization has implemented green practices in the newest urban areas by introducing natural light, solar power and fresh air.  I’m so proud that the city in which I live is not only growing in business and tourism, but also in environmental consciousness.

My style is influenced by Hip Hop music and urban culture.  The way I style myself mimics what I’ve seen in downtown Toronto, but I put my own twist on it. I usually dress in athletic wear, influenced by the sports I play, infused with styles from big city streets. People my age dress similar to those from the big city, however being from Markham makes my style unique to me.

Walking through our new downtown, I can feel the essence of my city captured through the street art made by local artists. The shops and restaurants run by local residents are bigger now and almost make me feel like I’m in a smaller version of downtown Toronto.  The City of Markham is growing into a city that will provide great opportunities and entertainment to its residents and it welcomes newcomers. It’s astonishing to witness my city grow into a bigger community attracting the attention of others all across Ontario. I remember growing up here before there was a downtown. Its so amazing to be able to watch my city flourish and expand into a successful place that welcomes all kinds of people, just as it has for myself and my family. I look forward to seeing the ongoing progress in the coming years. This new urban center, no matter how much it changes, will continue to be the heart of our community, and I am so proud to be a part of representing this growing metropolis to the rest of the world.

photographer: Peter Gonsalves