Today, Mayor Olivia Chow presented the Key to the City of Toronto to His Highness Prince Rahim the Aga Khan V at Ismaili Centre Toronto, recognizing his dedication to improving the quality of life of people around the world, regardless of birthplace or background. He has brought bold vision and deep commitment to this work — advancing institutions and initiatives spanning health care, education, culture, habitat, and financial inclusion, for Torontonians, Canadians, and communities around the globe.
The presentation took place at the inauguration of Generations Toronto, an affordable housing and long-term care facility, designed for community-supported aging within an intergenerational framework. The project, part of a national initiative of the Ismaili community, is grounded in the Islamic values of human dignity and compassion, and addresses health consequences of social isolation for seniors, along with the lack of affordable housing.
Generations Toronto was supported by funding from all levels of government, including an investment of $17.5 million in incentives by the City of Toronto. This was done through development charge exemptions and permit fee waivers. In addition, the City will provide tax exemption for the affordability period.
His Highness the Aga Khan is the 50th hereditary Imam of the Shia Ismaili Muslims. Over the past 50 years, the Ismaili community has made Canada and Toronto home — building roots and making lasting contributions to civic and cultural life.
About the Key to the City
The Mayor awards the Key to the City to inspiring individuals from diverse backgrounds who embody the spirit and potential of Toronto, and who have contributed significantly to civic life. The Key to the City is Toronto’s highest honour granted by the Mayor to an individual or a group.
More information, including a list of past recipients, is available on the City’s Key to the City webpage.
Mayor Chow invites residents to share their suggestions for individuals they believe should receive the Key to the City. To nominate someone who has made a meaningful impact on Toronto, visit: www.mayoroliviachow.ca/keytothecity
Quotes:
“I am proud to present His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V with the Key to the City, as a friend and ally of Toronto. This presentation exemplifies pluralism, cultural dialogue, and partnership, and we thank His Highness for decades of work to improve the quality of life around the world. It is especially meaningful to share this award as we celebrate the new Generations Toronto facility designed to be inclusive, caring, and intergenerational — allowing local seniors to age in place, supported by their community.”
– Mayor Olivia Chow
“I am deeply honoured by this recognition from the City of Toronto. Toronto has shown the world what pluralism looks like in practice. It is the commitment to openness and inclusion that has made this city a meaningful partner. I accept this key as a symbol of the friendship between this city and the Ismaili community — a relationship expressed through what we have built together.”
–His Highness Prince Rahim Aga Khan V
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