As the creator and head of UNITY, Michael has overseen its transition from a high school project to a student club at York University, a multi-chapter student club in Toronto universities, and a registered non-profit which gained charitable status in 2008.
UNITY is dedicated to teaching youth forms of artistic self-expression, leading them to make positive life choices, which in turn makes communities safer and stronger.
Michael’s vision and dedication has moved UNITY from a solely volunteer based organization to one with a professional staff and a streamlined operational structure, increasing the number, scope and depth of the programming offered to youth.
Michael is innovative and a true leader, and at 23 years old, has an impressive array of accolades under his belt. In 2006, Michael was a finalist for Youth in Motion’s Top 20 Under 20 competition, and in the following year he won the “Courage to Soar” Award at the Top 20 Under 20 conference for the entrepreneurial concept behind UNITY. He has volunteered at a number of local charities, including a role as board member of Leave Out Violence, won a number of international awards for his skills as a performing breakdancer, and been accepted into the pool of performers for Cirque Du Soleil.
Michael will use his Vital People grant towards fundraising, management, and leadership courses as well as practical training with a mentor in the not-for-profit sector.
