Item - 2026.CA35.2

Appointees' Biographies:

Archie Allison

Archie began his career at Variety Village in 1984 is the Director of Access and Awareness. As an enthusiastic advocate for people of all ages and abilities in the field of sport, recreation and fitness he prioritizes the importance of accessibility and inclusive participation. He has assisted in creating many programs for children, youth and adults of all abilities including school, community based and organizational initiatives. The Outreach and Physical activity Education programs are available to over 10,000 students across Ontario each year. Archie also instructs classes at high schools, colleges and universities promoting sport and recreation. He has created and facilitates certification courses for students, educators, coaches and industry leaders that focus on ability, awareness, advocacy and accessibility for everyBODY! 

Fareen Kassam

Fareen brings a distinguished combination of professional expertise, community leadership, and a commitment to lifelong learning to the Toronto Pan Am Centre. As a lawyer with over fifteen years of experience in labour and employment, litigation, and technology law, Fareen has advised organizations across diverse sectors, offering guidance through multiple lenses to address complex business challenges. In addition to her legal background, she has developed strong financial management acumen through her governance roles, contributing to budgeting, risk oversight, and long‑term fiscal planning. Her experience supporting organizations through periods of operational and financial transition has strengthened her ability to balance strategic priorities with responsible stewardship. Beyond the legal field, Fareen has demonstrated a strong commitment to community service and governance. For over a decade, she has served on the Ismaili Council in various capacities, contributing to initiatives that supported community development and economic resilience. Fareen was Vice Chair and head of the governance committee for Community Home Assistance to Seniors. She has completed over one hundred hours of pro bono services for refugees. In recognition of this dedication, she received the Ontario Volunteer Service Award in 2024.

During the review of the Order Paper on May 20, 2026, City Council adopted a procedural motion to remove this item from the jurisdiction of the Civic Appointments Committee and bring it forward for consideration by City Council.

The Civic Appointments Committee recommends that:  

1. City Council appoint the following public members to the Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre Board, at pleasure of Council, for a term of office ending on May 22, 2028, and until successors are appointed:

Archie Allison  

Fareen Kassam

2. City Council direct that balance of Confidential Attachments 1 to 3 to the report (May 6, 2026) from the City Clerk remain confidential in their entirety as they relate to personal information about identifiable individuals being considered for appointment to the Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre Board.

Candidates' Biographies:

Archie Allison

Archie began his career at Variety Village in 1984 is the Director of Access and Awareness. As an enthusiastic advocate for people of all ages and abilities in the field of sport, recreation and fitness he prioritizes the importance of accessibility and inclusive participation. He has assisted in creating many programs for children, youth and adults of all abilities including school, community based and organizational initiatives. The Outreach and Physical activity Education programs are available to over 10,000 students across Ontario each year. Archie also instructs classes at high schools, colleges and universities promoting sport and recreation. He has created and facilitates certification courses for students, educators, coaches and industry leaders that focus on ability, awareness, advocacy and accessibility for everyBODY! 

Fareen Kassam

Fareen brings a distinguished combination of professional expertise, community leadership, and a commitment to lifelong learning to the Toronto Pan Am Centre. As a lawyer with over fifteen years of experience in labour & employment, litigation, and technology law, Fareen has advised organizations across diverse sectors, offering guidance through multiple lenses to address complex business challenges. In addition to her legal background, she has developed strong financial management acumen through her governance roles, contributing to budgeting, risk oversight, and long‑term fiscal planning. Her experience supporting organizations through periods of operational and financial transition has strengthened her ability to balance strategic priorities with responsible stewardship. Beyond the legal field, Fareen has demonstrated a strong commitment to community service and governance. For over a decade, she has served on the Ismaili Council in various capacities, contributing to initiatives that supported community development and economic resilience. Fareen was Vice Chair and head of the governance committee for Community Home Assistance to Seniors (CHATS). She has completed over one hundred hours of pro bono services for refugees. In recognition of this dedication, she received the Ontario Volunteer Service Award in 2024.

This report recommends the appointment of two public members to the Toronto Pan Am Sports Centre Board.