Mark Simms facts for kids

Mark Simms (born in 1981) is a Canadian filmmaker, community activist, and martial artist. He is known for his work helping the community and for speaking out on important issues.

About Mark Simms

Mark Simms was born in Toronto, Ontario. He grew up in an area called Jane and Finch with his childhood friend, Paul Nguyen. Mark is the executive producer for a community website called Jane-Finch.com. This website helps share news and information about the Jane and Finch neighborhood.

His Achievements

Mark Simms is very skilled in Taekwondo, a martial art. He has a 2nd Dan black belt. He has also won many tournaments in his province. Mark often speaks to children and young people. He gives motivational talks and lectures at events. He encourages them to do their best.

In 2011, Mark received the Ontario Volunteer Service Award. This award recognized his great work helping his community. In 2016, he appeared on a TV show called Marketplace on CBC. On the show, he helped investigate important issues in Canada.

Speaking Up for His Community

Mark Simms is a strong voice for the Jane and Finch community. He often talks about important issues that affect people there. He wants to make sure everyone's voice is heard.

Important Discussions

Mark has spoken on many different topics related to the Jane and Finch area. Here are some examples:

• In 2005, he appeared on Global News to discuss community safety.
• Later in 2005, he was on CBC News: Today with Nancy Wilson. He talked about a documentary called 'The Real Toronto'.
• In 2006, Mark spoke on Radio Canada International about community challenges in Toronto.
• In 2007, he appeared on CBC News Morning with Heather Hiscox to discuss a sad event involving a young person named Jordan Manners.
• Also in 2007, Mark was on CTV's The Verdict with Paula Todd. He continued to discuss the Jordan Manners situation.
• In June 2007, he spoke to CBC News host Nancy Wilson about community issues and trust.
• In 2008, Mark appeared on the CBC French Radio program Désautel. He talked about community safety in Jane and Finch.
• In 2010, he was on Sun TV. He discussed how Jane-Finch.com helps the community.
• In 2011, Mark spoke on CBC's Metro Morning with Karen Horsman. He shared how the community felt about a court decision related to the Jordan Manners' trial.
• In 2016, Mark spoke on CBC's Morning Edition with Sheila Coles. He shared his experiences with important social issues in Canada.

Mark Simms's Film Work

Mark Simms has worked on several films and TV shows. He often helps tell stories about real life in communities.

Documentaries and TV Shows

Mark spent ten months working as a cameraman and associate producer. He documented the lives of young people from Jane and Finch for a CBC show called the fifth estate. This documentary was called Lost in the Struggle. It was even nominated for a Gemini Award! The film featured a rapper named Chuckie Akenz.

Here are some of the projects Mark has worked on:

• Lost in the Struggle: The Next Chapter (associate producer) (CBC Television, the fifth estate, 2012)
• If Justice Fails (actor) (CBC Television, the fifth estate, 2007)
• Ian Jones: Activist and Artist, How the Steelpan is Changing Lives (editor) (Bravo!/Leda Serene Films, 2007)
• Lost in the Struggle (associate producer) (CBC Television, the fifth estate, 2006)

Short Films

Mark has also been involved in making shorter films:

• Uncle Bob and his Vietnamese Children (producer), Jane-Finch (2010)
• Know Your Rights (cast), Jane-Finch.com (2010)
• Hustle On by Blacus Ninjah (director), Jane-Finch.com (2005)