Gabriola artist and community leader Yarrow Koontz played a key role in sustaining the island’s vibrant arts scene in 2024 through her creative activism and inclusive leadership.

Her work with projects like the Gabriola Museum’s Japanese Legacy Project, Threads of Continuity, and Threads of Resistance highlighted themes of sustainability, justice, and community. Yarrow fostered collaboration and amplified diverse voices during events such as Asian Heritage Month, Breaking Bannock, and Black History Month.

Through her commitment to creating welcoming, inclusive spaces, she brought artists and community members together to share stories, strategies, and visions. Yarrow’s contributions continue to inspire, leaving a lasting imprint on Gabriola’s cultural landscape.