Overture with the Arts celebrates 15th anniversary with Crystal Ball fundraiser

Overture with the Arts (OWTA), a non-profit organization based in Montreal, celebrated its 15th anniversary with its Crystal Ball fundraiser in Dollard-des-Ormeaux.

The event featured an unforgettable night of live music, dancing, amazing food and a silent auction.

“With tonight’s fundraiser we hope to raise a substantial amount of money so we can continue to offer free and low-cost programs and we just hope that the community can see what we’ve been doing for 15 years,” said OWTA founder and executive director Akilah Newton.

“It is a testament to the power of the arts, it unifies communities and the kids love our programs.

“We’ve worked with so many incredible artists and honestly to be here 15 years later and to still continue to thrive is just so beautiful and just being here tonight to celebrate with the community, with our youth participants, family and dignitaries, it means the world to us.”

The organization offers education in music, dance, drama and vocal training. It also helps kids find a creative outlet for self-expression while building confidence and poise. Since 2009, approximately 80,000 youth have benefited from their school tours.

“The minute I started working with Overture I saw how the community rallies to help young folks and that is a ripple effect,” said Zeeta Maharaj, OWTA’s operations director.

“Parents, family members, grandparents, they all come and they see their children or grandchildren performing in these magnificent performances.

“You see how proud they are, you see how much the community supports it.”

Four scholarships were handed out to recipients who demonstrated kindness, leadership, a willingness to be of service to others and a commitment to positive change.

The gala fundraiser raised $33,000 for Overture with the Arts.

The Young Achiever Award – Funded By The Gloria Baylis Foundation

Adriana Jackson is a remarkable young achiever whose enthusiasm for learning, entrepreneurship and community service knows no bounds. Despite her young age, Adriana has already distinguished herself as a beacon of excellence within the community.

She is a shining example of kindness and leadership, always ready to lend a helping hand while inspire those around her.

This scholarship recognizes Adriana’s outstanding achievements and unwavering determination, paving the way for even greater success in the future.

Adriana says she loves “helping the Black community, so I’m getting an award for that.”

Future Leader Award – Funded By The Gloria Baylis Foundation

Christina Koikaran is a beacon of inspiration and a leader of tomorrow. As a college student, she has already begun to make their mark, demonstrating exceptional leadership qualities and a deep commitment to positive change.

Christina embodies the values of integrity, empathy, and resilience, serving as a role model for aspiring leaders everywhere.

This scholarship celebrates Christina’s extraordinary achievements and heralds the bright future that lies ahead.

“Impact has been everything to me,” Christina said. “It’s really helped me grow in terms of confidence, resilience, it’s given me a sense of community, it’s given a person of colour an opportunity that is not always coming around. So Overture impacted me in every aspect of my life.”

Community Service Award – Funded By The Newton Family Scholarship 

Jordann Ades personifies selflessness, compassion and a dedication to serving others.

Through countless hours of volunteer work with OWTA, Jordann has made a profound impact on the community, embodying the spirit of altruism and generosity.

Whether it’s wrapping Christmas gifts for low-income children, or spending time with seniors, those in need, Jordann consistently goes above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of others.

This scholarship celebrates Jordann’s extraordinary commitment to service, recognizing her as a shining example of the transformative power of kindness and empathy.

“I joined Overture when I was 10 at its year of inception and Akilah has become like kind of a second mother slash aunt slash older sister slash mentor slash boss to me and she’s very much one of the closest people to me,” said Jordann, an executive assistant at Overture with the Arts.

“Overture and Akilah signify home and comfort and somewhere that I know I’ll always be accepted and somewhere I will always belong.”

Big Dreamers Award – Funded By Big Dreamers

Billie Du Page is a rising star whose passion for music is matched only by her dedication to making a difference in the community.

As a gifted musician, she captivates audiences with her talent and artistry, shining brightly on stage and leaving an indelible impression with every performance.

But her impact extends far beyond the realm of music.

She also generously donates her time and talent to uplift others, all while helping to raise funds for worthy causes.

Her harmonious blend of musical talent and community service exemplifies the power of arts.

This scholarship honours Billie’s dual commitment to artistic achievement and philanthropy, recognizing her as a true force for good in the world.

“Overture has impacted me in every aspect of my life,” Billie said.

“My music journey started with Overture with the Arts because I entered a song writing competition when I was 14 and now I’m 19 and I met the people I’m working with right now with Overture with the Arts and with Akilah. So for that I’ll always be grateful.”