Creating a workplace that reflects a team's mission and values comes down to more than just decor — it is rooted in intention. The Information Security team at Information Technology Services (ITS) has given new life to its space through vibrant murals by urban Indigenous artist Ryan "Amik" Besito. This initiative, part of the team's ongoing effort to create a more welcoming and inclusive workplace, reflects both their internal mission and the university's broader commitment to being a place deserving of Indigenous community members.

"The spaces we work in shape the way we connect and collaborate with each other," says Deyves Fonseca, acting chief information security officer. "This initiative has allowed us to create an environment that not only reflects our values but strengthens our team culture. It has been inspiring to watch our space evolve into something that truly represents who we are."

The artist, Amik, is an Anishinaabe artist from Saugeen First Nation who uses traditional techniques to express the enduring connection Indigenous peoples hold with all spaces. Amik has created two original murals for the Information Security office, each rooted in the themes of "connection to land" and "the stories that we carry."

As an emerging artist, Amik was excited for the opportunity to bring Indigenous presence into our space and to contribute to the ongoing story of U of T. "For me, art is about carrying our stories, teachings and connections forward, and this project allowed me to do that in a way that people can see and feel every day," explained Amik. "These murals don't just brighten the walls, they create space for reflection, for connection to land and story, and for Indigenous voices to be seen and celebrated at the university."

The first mural, titled "Piitaapan," is located in the Information Security board room. Amik describes it as "a visual teaching told through the lens of Two-Eyed Seeing, an approach that honours both Indigenous and Western ways of knowing and guided by the Anishinaabe concept of Piitaapan, meaning 'the moment before the first light touches the Earth.'" Each element in the mural holds meaning and tells a story of balance, rebirth and relationships. Read the full explanation of the Piitaapan mural here.

The concept of Two-Eyed Seeing, introduced by Mi'kmaw Elder Albert Marshall, refers to the value of multiple perspectives, inviting us to view the world through two lenses at once. This principle resonates strongly with our community in this moment as AI transforms higher education and, in the final years of our second century, the university reflects on what it has built while preparing for its third century by moving forward without losing sight of its responsibilities to people, land and culture.

Chief Information Officer Donna Kidwell stopped by the office to see Amik in action and chat about his process and inspiration. "It was a joy to speak with Amik to understand his process and peel back the layers of meaning behind this mural," says Kidwell. "His art invites us to pause, reflect and engage in important dialogue, especially around the experiences of Urban Indigenous peoples." 

In the CISO's office, the second mural explores "Dbaadendiziwin" — meaning humility — through the image of a wolf howling at the harvest moon. Surrounded by the subtle presence of the four seasons, it symbolizes balance, collective strength and continuous learning. Read the full explanation of the Dbaadendiziwin mural here.

Belinda McKay, executive assistant to the CISO and Deputy CISO, has been a key player in getting this initiative off the ground. She reflects that these murals are a reminder that safeguarding knowledge is not only a technical responsibility, but also a cultural and ethical one. "It encourages reflection on the importance of protecting diverse ways of knowing, as well as the role of trust, respect and accountability in both digital and human systems."

It is encouraging to see this internal initiative make such inspiring steps in a direction that supports key strategic drivers — specifically equity, diversity and inclusivity — identified in the IT@UofT Strategic Plan. It also advances commitments from the university's Final Report of the Steering Committee for U of T's Response to the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, which calls for the expansion of Indigenous art across all three campuses.

Through the thoughtful integration of these murals into the workplace, the Information Security team continues to build a space where everyone feels welcomed, seen and inspired.

See more of Amik's art on his Instagram page.