STATEN ISLAND, NY — The Canvas Institute of Arts, Culture & Civic Engagement will honor seven Staten Island community champions at its 4th Annual Youth Empowerment Gala on Nov. 12, 2025, as the organization approaches milestone anniversaries next year.
The gala will take place from 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. at LiGreci’s Staaten, 697 Forest Ave., Staten Island. The event celebrates the organization’s 19th Annual Youth Empowerment Summit and Canvas Institute’s ninth anniversary of providing arts, culture and civic engagement programs for Staten Island youth and families.
This year’s honorees include Hon. Edwina F. Martin, an attorney and community organizer; Frank “Turtle” Raffaele of Coffeed; Nicholas Mele, principal of Edwin Markham School; Jessica Jackson, principal of Rocco Laurie School; Dr. John Piazza, an international certified chiropractic sports physician; Lamson Lam of Exalt Youth; and Taina B. Martinez of Baltic Streets.
“This year’s gala celebrates the spirit of service and partnership that keeps our mission alive,” said Bobby Digi Olisa, founder and executive director of Canvas Institute. “As we approach 20 years of youth empowerment and 10 years of Canvas Institute, we honor the community members and partners who continue to help us build a more equitable and inspired Staten Island.”
The celebration comes as Canvas Institute prepares for major milestones in 2026, including its 20th Annual Summit and the organization’s 10th anniversary.
Guests will experience an evening of live entertainment and recognition while supporting programs in youth leadership, workforce development, arts education and civic engagement.
Individual tickets cost $150, with tables available for $1,500. Sponsorship opportunities range from $2,500 for silver level to $5,000 for platinum sponsorship. Journal advertising packages are available from $80 for half-page ads to $1,000 for back cover placement.
The gala supports Canvas Institute’s receipt of the Diamond Grant, funded by the Staten Island Foundation. The special matching grant provides a 2:1 match on every donation, tripling the impact of contributions. Funds will directly support youth development initiatives and mental health programs for students in Staten Island public schools.
Canvas Institute, founded by entrepreneur Bobby Digi Olisa, has served as a community-based organization for nearly a decade, dedicated to empowering underserved communities through art, education and civic leadership.
Tickets and sponsorship information is available at www.pledge.to/aye25#donate.
This community news was shared by the organization featured. AI was used in an initial story draft and been review by Advance/SILive.comstaff.
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