Art as a Catalyst for Community Transformation

By: Kayode Brown

Arts education is a catalyst for growth, equipping young people with the confidence to navigate life’s complexities, the skills to tell their stories, and the mindset to lead with purpose. When I founded Just BGRAPHIC, the goal was clear: to redefine arts education as a tool for empowerment and community building. This work is grounded in a belief that creativity unlocks potential, fosters leadership, and builds resilience.

The Jane-Finch community is deeply woven into my identity and work. It’s where I grew up, where I experienced the power of culture and community, and where I’ve chosen to raise my family. My father, Toronto’s first reggae radio host on CHRY 105.5 FM, where he connected the Jamaican diaspora through his platform, while my mother, the first Black female minister in the Presbyterian Church of Canada, broke barriers and created spaces for learning and advocacy. Their influence taught me that progress comes from building systems rooted in authenticity, respect, and purpose.

Just BGRAPHIC was born out of a clear need for arts education that reflects the lived experiences of young people in communities like Jane-Finch. Schools too often failed to engage youth in ways that spoke to their realities. The arts offered a way to change that. They provide a powerful medium for self-expression, skill development, and personal growth. My focus from the outset was to create programs that weren’t just about teaching art but about equipping young people to thrive.

A Summer Academy Built on Collaboration

One of the most impactful programs we’ve developed is the Summer Arts Academy, created in collaboration with Northcrest Developments. This program is a testament to the power of partnerships that genuinely invest in community-driven initiatives. Northcrest’s commitment to community engagement allowed us to design an immersive experience that gives students access to high-quality arts education, mentorship, and hands-on learning opportunities in an inspiring setting.

The Summer Arts Academy provides a platform for students to explore their creativity and develop practical skills. Zara, one of our students, entered the program unsure of her artistic abilities. Through mentorship and collaborative projects, she discovered a passion for digital illustration. By the end of the summer, Zara had not only developed a robust portfolio but had also grown in confidence, taking on leadership roles within her peer group. Prabhjot, another participant, found his calling in music production. His early hesitation was replaced by enthusiasm as he honed his skills under the guidance of our instructors. Prabhjot now produces tracks for local artists and is laying the groundwork for his future. These stories are not just about individual success—they demonstrate the transformative power of arts education when delivered with intention and supported by strong community partnerships.

Northcrest’s role in this program is pivotal. Their vision for the transformation of the Downsview Airport Lands—a 370-acre redevelopment project—goes beyond buildings and infrastructure. It’s about creating spaces that serve as cultural and creative hubs, designed to engage the community and foster growth. Through their “meanwhile use” strategy, they’ve activated parts of the site long before construction begins, turning spaces like the historic hangars into vibrant venues for events and programs.

Hanger Skate, the first major project between Just BGRAPHIC and Northcrest, exemplified this approach. It transformed the hangars into spaces for artistic exploration and community connection. Youth artists, local talent, and families came together in a dynamic environment that celebrated creativity and collaboration. This success laid the groundwork for the Summer Arts Academy and set the tone for an ongoing partnership that continues to evolve.

A Commitment to Community

My connection to Jane-Finch shapes everything I do. Just BGRAPHIC is not just based in this community—it’s an extension of it. Our hyper-local approach ensures that every resource we secure is reinvested into the area. Whether it’s hiring local artists, supporting small businesses, or providing free access to our programs, the goal is always to uplift and empower. This strategy is deliberate. We are building a model where the community doesn’t just benefit from our work but is actively involved in shaping it. Our programs are designed to reflect the diverse cultural identities of the youth we serve, ensuring that every student feels seen, valued, and inspired.

Over the years, Just BGRAPHIC has established strong partnerships with schools and community organisations, including major school boards like TDSB, Toronto Catholic, and York Region. These collaborations allow us to deliver arts programming that integrates seamlessly into academic settings, providing students with creative experiences that enhance their education.

Innovating Beyond Traditional Non-profit Models

Just BGRAPHIC operates at the intersection of social enterprise and non-profit, blending mission-driven work with entrepreneurial strategies. This model ensures sustainability and adaptability, allowing us to focus on long-term impact. Traditional non-profits often rely heavily on grants, which can create instability and limit growth. From the beginning, I knew we needed a different approach—one that prioritised collaboration and innovation.

Our partnership with Northcrest Developments is a prime example of this strategy in action. By aligning with an organisation that shares our vision for community impact, we’ve been able to expand our reach and deepen our impact. Northcrest’s support is not just financial; it’s a commitment to working alongside us to create programs that resonate with the community.

The outcomes speak for themselves. The Summer Arts Academy, Hangerscape, Hangar Skate and other initiatives born from this partnership have engaged hundreds of youth, providing them with the tools and confidence to pursue their creative ambitions. These programs demonstrate what’s possible when organisations come together with a shared purpose and a focus on building lasting change.

Stories of Transformation?

The impact of Just BGRAPHIC’s work is best illustrated through the stories of the young people we serve. Each project and partnership adds to a growing legacy of empowerment and innovation. Every music track, mural, and digital design created within our programs reflects the creativity, resilience, and leadership of the youth we work with.

Zara?and?Prabhjot’s journeys are just two examples. Each summer, we see students who arrive unsure of their abilities leave with a renewed sense of purpose and confidence. These transformations are a reminder of why this work matters and why partnerships like the one with Northcrest are so critical.

Building a Legacy

The future of Just BGRAPHIC is filled with possibility. As we continue to grow, the mission remains the same: to empower youth, foster leadership, and build a future where creativity is a driving force for change. The work ahead is both challenging and exciting, but with the support of partners like Northcrest and the incredible young people we serve, the path forward is clear. Together, we are creating a legacy of confidence, creativity, and community. Every program, every project, and every story contribute to this vision, proving that arts education is not just an opportunity but a powerful force for transformation. With initiatives like?Hangar Skate?and our DJ Mentorship program returning, we’re excited to continue building on this partnership. It stands as an example for how collaboration, mentorship, and the arts can transform spaces and lives, inspiring other organisational partnerships to follow suit.