Wheeling the street and lanes of Weston in a 1929 Indonesian Rickshaw, Greg Fudziniski has captured the imagination and hearts of new and old alike. Affectionately dubbed Rasta Taxi, Greg Fudziniski, a Polish born newcomer to Canada, completes the spectacle with his self styled dreadlocks and welcoming smile to all who flag him down for a ride or a photo opportunity. "If I can brighten up somebody's day by giving them a ride down Weston road, or even just posing for a photograph, well then, why not?" Emphatically he says, "I don't charge for rides or photos but if someone wants to show their appreciation by offering a token donation, well for sure, that's ok with me."

Ironically Weston is a town that was founded on the simplicity of the bicycle. Throughout the 19th century Weston grew into an industrial hub for the manufacturing of bicycles and in 1917 became the headquarters for (C.C.M) Canada Cycle & Motor Company. Models of old fashioned bicycles are still displayed from street lights along Weston road as a perpetual reminder of it’s heritage.
The iconic simplicity of Greg Fudziniski’s 1929 Indonesian Rickshaw wheeling through Weston, not only amuses all who see him but also infuses the atmosphere with the spirit of an era gone by. To some, Rasta Taxi brings back to remembrance, simpler days gone by. However, to most, Greg is a familiar neighbor and a friend when the shopping bags are just a little bit too heavy to bear.

Simon Shirley
Immigrant Post
Staff Photojournalist
simonshirley@immigrantpost.ca