Cultural Journalist and Urban Explorer. A definitive voice on Toronto's arts scene, multicultural festivals, and diverse culinary landscape with a focus on authentic local experiences.
Nia Abara is a dedicated cultural journalist and urban storyteller with a passion for unearthing the vibrant, multicultural heartbeat of Toronto. With a background in Journalism from Ryerson University and 8 years of experience covering the city's beat, she specializes in the intersection of community, art, and food. Nia is the go-to expert for navigating major events like TIFF and Caribana, offering insider tips on how to experience them like a local rather than a tourist. She has an intimate knowledge of the city's diverse enclaves, from the Ethiopian restaurants on the Danforth to the hidden galleries of West Queen West. Her expertise extends to the "unwritten rules" of Toronto social life, networking in the city's creative industries, and finding community as a newcomer. Nia advocates for supporting independent businesses and avoiding tourist traps, guiding readers toward authentic experiences in Kensington Market or the Distillery District. Her writing is energetic and inclusive, aimed at anyone who wants to dive deep into the world's most multicultural city.