Open mic activation at the Toronto Zoo in partnership with East Scarborough Boys & Girls Club. Get whimsy to the max as we perform alongside the felines.

Join us for a collaborative night of music & connection in partnership with R.I.S.E. Edutainment.

World Cup/FIFA-related community gatherings featuring spoken word, music, performances, cultural activations, networking, showcases, and watch party experiences across Toronto. Spoken Soul is the presenting partner for The Gathering series.

This year’s theme THE SHIFT From Seed to Sanctuary is about growth, elevation, and creating spaces where our creative community can truly thrive. Expect a night of music, poetry, storytelling, and connection as we continue building a legacy that has supported artists in Toronto for over a decade.

On December 13, we’re closing out the year with Last R.I.S.E., a showcase dedicated to our community and the artists who bring their unique voices to the stage. It’s the ultimate celebration of our city’s creative energy, with performances that uplift and inspire. Don’t miss this chance to come together, enjoy incredible talent, and share in the joy of community.

After twelve weeks of learning, creating, and leveling up, our artists are ready to take the stage. Join us for an unforgettable night of music, storytelling, and artistry as the LCA 4.0 cohort performs live at Rivoli Toronto.

Panel (10:00 AM – 11:30 AM): The Art of Pitching Yourself – “Closed Mouths Don’t Get Fed”
Featuring Ashley McKenzie-Barnes & Jelissa Iris | Moderated by Chantelle Quow

Workshops (11:45 AM – 1:15 PM):

• Michelle Allman – Getting Synced: Unlocking the World of Music Licensing & Sync

• Danica Rose – Ready to Tour: A Workshop for Emerging Artists

Pitch Competition (2:45 PM – 4:45 PM):
Watch the top four finalists pitch their creative ideas for a chance to win mentorship and resources - with up to $6,000 in prizes to be awarded!

Take the stage and share your art - sing, spit bars, perform poetry, or move the crowd with your message. This is your night to connect, express, and shine.

Get ready - RISE in UNITY Open Mic is back for another unforgettable night of creativity, connection, and community!

Join us for Dandy in a Day — a creative workshop where poetry and African-rooted movement come together in a powerful, expressive experience.

Join us for the LCA Audition Clinic + Open Mic — a free pre-event designed to help you prep, connect, and shine. Whether you're a vocalist, rapper, poet, or simply curious, this night is for YOU!

13 YEARS OF IMPACT!

We’re turning up the energy for our 13th anniversary celebration, and you’re invited! Join us for a powerful night of music, community, and culture as we honor 13 years of empowering artists and amplifying voices that defy the odds.

A dynamic open mic dedicated to honoring women’s strength, brilliance, and resilience.

In celebration of International Women’s Month, this special evening will be hosted by the talented Zakisha Brown, featuring powerful performances by emerging artists and students from the Toronto District School Board (TDSB).

🚀✨ RISE Open Mic is back! Join us Friday, Feb 28th at the CEE Centre For Young Black Professionals for a night of bold imagination and creative expression! 🎤💫

Be among the first to experience incredible talent from the city by being part of our live audience, to support the next wave of rising stars, and connect with like-minded creatives and music industry profiles.

Grab your tickets now to lock in your spot before officially announcing this on social media!

We’re beyond excited to invite you to Last R.I.S.E. 2024, the final R.I.S.E. showcase of the year! This special event is our way of expressing deep gratitude to the incredible community that has supported us, while celebrating the extraordinary talent of local artists in the GTA.

Here’s what to look forward to:

• A stacked lineup featuring 4sante, Thelonious, Keysha Freshh, Tara Lord, and Aiza, with a headlining performance from 2024 Polaris-nominated artist TOBi

• A festive holiday market spotlighting local, independent vendors

• A vibrant, creative atmosphere to connect and build community

Don’t miss this night of celebration! Tickets are just $15 — secure yours now before they’re gone!

We’re thrilled to announce the return of the LCA Showcase, featuring the talented artists from our 12-week incubator program, hosted by R.I.S.E and @unitycharity. This program has elevated vocalists, rappers, musicians, singers, spoken word artists, and poets to new heights, with guidance from industry professionals in vocal training, branding, performance techniques, and more.

Join us as we unveil the 2024 Lights Camera Action roster, showcasing incredible talent!

Join us on Friday, November 22, for our last open mic of the season, focused on Men’s Mental Health Month.  This event offers a safe space for men to share their stories, experiences, and challenges, breaking down stigmas around emotional wellbeing.
Hosted by Joel Naga from Filltheblk, the night will feature an impactful discussion with Sam Tita of Black Men’s Style, creating an opportunity for open expression and connection. The evening will feature a soulful performance by Rey D, along with a vendor market spotlighting male-led businesses from Scarborough and the GTA.

Join us for a night of music, connection, and heartfelt conversations!  

This month’s theme, DIVERSE VOICES , invites us to celebrate and honor the richness of cultural diversity with an exciting costume party twist. Come dressed in attire that represents your heritage or inspires you, and let's create an unforgettable night of music, community, and cultural expression. 🎭✨

We’re thrilled to invite you to BIPOC CREATE, an exciting celebration of creativity, culture, and community! In collaboration with R.I.S.E. Frequency Tour and BIPOC ACCESS (The Dope Content), this free event is a powerful space for local creatives to connect, learn, and showcase their talent.

Get ready for the RISE Edutainment Summit!

Join us on August 24 and 25 at Toronto Metropolitan University!

This year’s summit will feature:

💃inspiring showcases

🧠educational workshops
📈networking opportunities.

Don’t miss your chance to connect with top emerging artists and industry experts. Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more updates! 📅✨

Get ready for the RISE Edutainment Summit!

Join us on August 24 and 25 at Toronto Metropolitan University!

This year’s summit will feature:

💃inspiring showcases

🧠educational workshops
📈networking opportunities.

Don’t miss your chance to connect with top emerging artists and industry experts. Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more updates! 📅✨