About the founders
Orfelina Millan Narvaez is an environmental artist and creator of the Orfe EcoArt Program, an eco-friendly community art initiative for children and youth. Her passion for art, commitment to environmental values, and years of experience teaching art to students have strengthened her mission to inspire the next generation to care for the planet through creativity and hands-on learning.
She co-founded the Orfe EcoArt Program with her son, Gabriel de los Rios, who, from a young age, showed a strong connection to nature and a desire to share it with others. At just five years old, Gabriel encouraged his mother to teach art at his school and personally helped introduce the program to his school families. Over the years, he became a key contributor, offering creative ideas, assisting with workshop planning, and leading volunteer efforts during School Programs and Camps. His involvement helped shape the program’s vision and ensured that it remained meaningful for young participants.
Orfelina was born in Barranquilla, Colombia. She discovered her love for art early in life, which led her to study Textile Design at the Autónoma del Caribe University, where she explored artistic techniques focused on natural materials and fiber transformation. After moving to Canada in 2011, she began creating eco-friendly art using recycled and organic materials, and has since exhibited her work in various public settings.
In 2014, Orfelina started teaching art as a volunteer at Blessed Trinity Catholic School. She created workshops for students in grades 1 through 8 and was moved by their enthusiasm and creativity. That experience, combined with Gabriel’s support, led to the development of the Orfe EcoArt Program, where children explore art using recyclable and natural materials.
The Orfe Program has expanded to schools and communities across Toronto, receiving support from arts and community organizations, including the Toronto Arts Council, North York Arts, STEPS Initiative, Art Starts, Arts Ignite, and Women4ClimateTO. In 2019, it became an educational programming partner with the Toronto District School Board.
On September 15, 2019, Orfelina received Canada’s first Climate Arts Award from NewArts Toronto, recognizing her contributions to shifting the narrative around environmental protection through the arts.
Today, the Orfe EcoArt Program continues to grow with a focus on promoting creativity, ecological practices, and community engagement. What began as a mother-and-son dream has become a platform that inspires children and families to see beauty and possibility in the materials around them.
The Orfe Eco Art Program is being expanded to promote the growth of art and environmental awareness in neighboring communities and schools.
Let’s work together to give our children a sustainable future
Join Our Journey of Discovery