We are excited to announce our next Volunteer President, Maya Kotlarenko.

Maya in her own words:

I’ve been a volunteer at the AGO for just over 10 years, joining first as an Info Guide during TransformationAGO and then transitioning to Gallery Guide a few years later. What I love most about interacting with guests of the gallery is getting glimpses into who they are, what they love, which pieces they’re drawn to and even what they hate! It’s so subjective and fascinating and everyone’s views are valid one way or another, offering perspectives I may not have considered. 

Similarly, as Volunteer President, I’m excited to hear from volunteers across all of our programs at the AGO about what matters most to them, where they’d like to see changes and improvements, and how we can communicate most effectively among our ever-growing teams. In recent years, I’ve had the opportunity to get more deeply involved in Corporate Social Responsibility, Diversity & Inclusion, Accessibility and Sustainability. My passion is in creating safe, open spaces where people can be their authentic selves and thrive. 

My absolute favourite piece at the AGO is Kent Monkman’s Academy and one of the highlights of my LIFE was bringing Kent into my office last year as a guest speaker to talk about his ‘Shame and Prejudice’ exhibit around the context of Pride and Canada150. I don’t even know if Kent would have been on my radar if it wasn’t through my experience at the AGO and getting the opportunity to tell him in-person how much the volunteers love his work was a truly special moment I will never forget. 

When I’m not at work or volunteering, I’m taking in everything this amazing city has to offer (especially in the summer!) – concerts and live music, outdoor art fairs, marches and parades – you name it!

Note: we’re still in the process of setting up Maya’s gallery email, phone and office ( her term officially begins in September). Hang tight and we’ll share more details when we have them.