The City of Brampton celebrated acclaimed Canadian Japanese author and illustrator Ruth Ohi as the newest inductee into the Brampton Arts Walk of Fame during a special ceremony held at The Rose Brampton.
The honour was presented during Brampton Book Week, giving added meaning to a city-wide celebration focused on literacy, storytelling and local creative voices. Community members, artists, educators and young readers gathered to recognize Ohi’s remarkable contribution to children’s literature and her lifelong connection to Brampton.
A highlight of the ceremony was a youth-focused presentation where Ohi engaged children through live storytelling and illustration, reflecting the same creativity and imagination that have made her books beloved by readers across Canada and internationally.
Ohi’s career spans more than 60 illustrated children’s books, including over 22 titles she also wrote. Her work has reached audiences in countries such as Korea, China, Belgium, Turkey, Holland, Australia and the United States, while earning recognition through numerous literary award shortlists.
Her Brampton roots remain a proud part of her story. Ohi attended local schools including Earnscliffe Public School and Bramalea Secondary School, and later travelled by GO Bus to study at the Ontario College of Art in Toronto. She has credited regular childhood visits to the Brampton Library with helping spark her love of reading and curiosity about the world.
The celebration will continue later this year through a partnership with Fold Kids Book Fest, where Ohi will serve as the 2026 Illustrator-in-Residence with additional programming expected in the months ahead.
Mayor Patrick Brown praised Ohi’s lasting impact, saying Brampton is proud to honour artists who inspire future generations and help put the city on the map. Regional Councillor Rowena Santos added that Ohi’s ability to connect with children through words and art demonstrates the power of creativity in shaping confident and imaginative young minds.
In accepting the honour, Ohi said being recognized by the city where she grew up was an incredible gift and expressed hope that her induction would encourage children to believe their stories and ideas matter.
Since launching in 2014, the Brampton Arts Walk of Fame has become an important symbol of the city’s cultural identity, celebrating artists and creators whose achievements continue to inspire the next generation.