Testimonials

“It was a delight to have Anne-Marie as a virtual guest artist in our “Telling Your Truth” class. My students were able to witness how you can be an entrepreneur and use your story in your art. Amani’s passion and nonstop commitment to creating art and powerful stories are always inspiring and memorable. Amani reminds us to keep hope alive and never be silent with our words.”

Dionna Griffin Irons

Multi-faceted producer, writer and Diversity and Inclusion Advocate, Chicago, IL

It’s not only Amani’s creativity that I’m truly in awe of; it’s her passion and unrelenting drive that amazes me. I’ve witnessed her genius in her plays, as well as in her comedic shows. She’s fearlessly creative and committed to her craft. It was an honour to have sat down with her for my blog and podcast.

Michelle Joseph

Podcaster/Blogger/Writer, Toronto, ON

“We were first introduced to Anne-Marie Woods as a vocalist and performer in 2012. We were delighted at the opportunity to work with her again in the year 2013 as the Creative Director for The Journey, an 80-minute stage show telling the stories of the Regent Park revitalization through spoken word narrative, song, film, images, and dance. Anne-Marie was deeply involved in each component of the production. Her organizational skills, work ethic, and professionalism are truly impressive. It was wonderful to watch Anne-Marie’s work with the young people involved in the production; she has an amazing ability to connect with youth as a coach, a mentor, a confidante, and a fellow artist. With Anne-Marie’s leadership, The Journey was an overwhelming success. We look forward to the next opportunity to work with Anne-Marie!”

Mitchell Cohen and Heela Omarkhail

Co-Producers, The Journey: A Living History of the Regent Park Revitalization

Amani aka Anne-Marie Woods presented at our Culture, Passion , Strength: Our Journey, Our Narrative workshop. I heard about her from my colleague who had seen her present at another venue. We wanted a speaker that would provide a creative yet culturally appropriate presentation, that would inspire and educate the audience around them, which focused on empowering the black community. We loved the combination of singing and spoken word in her presentation. These elements and the way she spoke truly captured the audience. Amani is very approachable and knowledgeable about the needs of the black community, and it’s important to have these individuals around to help motivate and inspire, especially in creative ways.

I truly felt Anne-Marie delivered exactly what we were looking for and maybe even more. As I know she is in the arts, I would probably just ask for a separate section to focus on the arts or do a specific art activity next time.

It was a pleasure to have Anne-Marie share a story that so many African descent women can relate to in such a creative way, which many of us can relate to. We felt inspired and empowered to change the narrative often placed on racialized communities.

Simone Donaldson

Social Worker, Women’s Health in Women’s Hands, Tornto, ON

The Grant Writing 101 Workshop had a very clear step-by-step process, as well as individual and group participation opportunities.

I liked the fact that it created a communal environment, where the participants were able to help each other in some way or another, simply with the different connections and knowledge that we all possessed.

I would Absolutely recommend this workshop because it was made very simple for everyone to understand, no matter what your background of grant writing is. Anne-Marie is very personal in that she talks to you with genuine concern and interest. You can tell she really wants you to be able to write the best grant you can to support your project.

Raven Dauda

Accomplished Toronto Actress and Star of Da Kink In My Hair

I met Anne Marie Wood at the 2022 TIFF Festival during the screening of Sanaa Lathan’s “On The Come Up.” Seated beside each other, I immediately felt a strong connection and warmth from her. After that encounter, I started following Amani on social media, hoping for the chance to collaborate someday.

Anne Marie’s grounded energy and genuine essence inspired me to reach out for guidance as I began developing a theatrical piece based on my life. Working with her has been an organic, intentional process filled with reflection and discovery. Her calm, soothing approach keeps me present and focused, allowing the work to unfold naturally. I’m deeply grateful for her support; she brings strength and clarity to my creative journey.