As
featured in
The Weekly Gleaner Community Newspaper,
August 29-September 4, 2002 Written by Nadia Ranieri
Youngsters in Toronto's Jane and Finch community got an opportunity to strut their stuff at the third annual Youth Mosaic on the weekend. The event, which took place at the Jane-Finch Mall in North York, brought residents together from all corners of the community and provided a forum that brought young, fresh talent to the forefront. "Mosaic represents diversity", said Gerry Green, this years Youth Mosaic Organizer, "and that's why we're going to have different dancers and performers." Green has been involved from the very beginning in 1999, and this year he did something unprecedented by hiring two students to take part in this celebration. It's important for youth to see that we have a community to be proud of," said Green. "People are working together and learning from one another." There was a mix of rap, reggae and hip-hop performers that kept the crowds coming. This year's main attraction was hip-hop singer, Sugar Prince, artist of the title track, Too Young For Love." "I love that song," cried 17-year old Ladonna Taylor. "I never really met him (Sugar Prince) before so this will be a good opportunity." The audience was entertained by some talented young actors from the Arts York and Burning Passions Theatre, who put on a small play based on issues relevant to young people everywhere. But the real opportunities were found in the Job Fair and Employment Expo that featured over 30 employers, including Prime America, Pizza Pizza, and Mary Kay Cosmetics, who were looking for potential workers. I'm hoping that young people will get jobs and other people who haven't accessed community services will gain career information," said Green. Nearby community agencies like Jane-Finch Legal Services and Conflict Mediation Services of Downview set up information booths and distributed flyers and pamphlets. Keynote speaker, Chioma, delivered a powerful message to the young people of Jane and Finch that emphasized community and a sense of belonging. "Coming back to the community and speaking to youth about my journey is a bittersweet moment for me," said Chioma. "I tell youth they've got to take responsibility for their lives; their parents aren't responsible for their future." Chioma described the Jane-Finch community as having a lot of potential and encouraged youth to reclaim their neighborhood. This year's MC was Sanforka, from CHRY105.FM radio, who introduced a medley of entertainers including, community activists Judy Sgro, MP Maria Augimeri and DJ J-wize from Flow 93.5 FM radio. The Jane and Finch community represents one of the largest growing ethnic communities in the city. Community artists had no reservations in their efforts to lend a helping hand. "It's great to support a community like this one because people have given it such a bad rap," said DJSoul Sistah, who played "conscience" Reggae and Dance Hall music all afternoon. For some of the performers, this was a rare opportunity to tread back on common ground. "This is a community I grew up in," said Reggae performer, Lady Luscious. While their reputation is not representative of where the community stands right now, Green belives that this event will touch hearts and reach a higher platform. "It's important for you to see that they have a community to be proud of." Said Green; "It's just like a little United Nations here."