#Canada #Toronto #Artists for Peace #Amanda Brugel #Fundraising Gala

The 17th Annual APJ Gala: A Night of Impact and Philanthropy

On September 6, 2025, the Artists for Peace and Justice (APJ) Gala took place at Toronto's esteemed Omni King Edward Hotel. Hosted by Board Chair Natasha Koifman alongside board members such as Kardinal Offishall and Suzanne Boyd, the event attracted a celebratory crowd, raising an impressive $750,000 for education and community-driven initiatives in Haiti. Recognized as one of Toronto’s most anticipated philanthropic highlights, the gala emphasized the organization's commitment to harnessing the power of art for social justice.

Gala Highlights and Performances

The evening commenced with a vibrant performance by Haitian musician Paul Beaubrun, captivating the audience and setting the tone for a heartfelt celebration. Emcees George Stroumboulopoulos and Kardinal Offishall welcomed guests warmly, showcasing gratitude for the sustained generosity that powers APJ’s mission.

Natasha Koifman addressed the audience, reflecting on over a decade of significant progress since the organization’s inception in 2009. Highlighting both the hardships faced by Haiti and the transformative change facilitated by devoted donors, she expressed, “Seventeen years later, it’s incredible to see Toronto still coming together with the same commitment.” Her words resonated deeply, reinforcing the urgency of continued support for Haitians.

The live auction, hosted by Eric Hendrikx, brimming with excitement, featured fantastic items. Former Toronto Blue Jays star José Bautista energized the room, recreating his unforgettable bat-flip moment, while celebrated artist Russell Young shared the story behind his work, promising to create a second edition of his famed Marilyn Crying piece for an enthusiastic bidder.

Honoring Advocacy

This year’s gala honored acclaimed actress Amanda Brugel for her vigorous advocacy and commitment to equity. Presented with her award by actress Dani Kind, Brugel’s speech echoed the sentiment of responsibility that privilege engenders. “I was born in the right country at the right time,” she shared, emphasizing the moral imperative to support those from underprivileged backgrounds.

The “Fund the Need” segment of the evening showcased the fervor of APJ’s supporters. Longtime benefactors Rose and Danny Mantella reaffirmed their commitment while Shoaib Khan, founder of Humaniti, announced a $25,000 donation towards the APJ Garden Project for Sustainable Nutrition and Education, inspiring generosity across the room.

Adding to the evening’s allure, musicians including Kardinal Offishall, Rotimi, and Fefe Dobson performed throughout, giving voice to APJ’s vital mission.

Gifts and Sponsors

Attendees departed with especially curated giveaways, including the exclusive 138 Yorkville candles by KANDL and a signed edition of the book Echoes from Eden by entrepreneurs Dax Dasilva and Eric Hendrikx.

Such profound success for the gala underscores the community’s unwavering support for the mission of Artists for Peace and Justice. With notable sponsors like Air Canada, Audi, and 2Fifteen by DBS Developments lending their support, the event symbolized an ongoing commitment to creating sustainable change in Haiti.

About Artists for Peace and Justice

Artists for Peace and Justice is a dedicated nonprofit operating toward fostering peace and social justice while addressing global poverty challenges. Its primary mission focuses on aiding impoverished communities in Haiti through educational, healthcare, and arts initiatives. For more information, connect with APJ on their digital platforms or visit apjnow.org.

As the night concluded, the echoes of laughter, music, and solidarity lingered, reminding attendees of the profound impact their contributions could boast. The APJ Gala not only celebrated past successes but also ignited hope for a brighter future, promoting sustained support for the children of Haiti.