Artists for Peace and Justice Gala 2024 Celebrates 16 Years of Impact During Toronto Film Festival
This year marked the 16th annual Artists for Peace and Justice (APJ) Festival Gala, a heartwarming and intimate event dedicated to raising funds for education in Haiti. Hosted by APJ Board Chair and NKPR President Natasha Koifman, the gala celebrated the transformative power of education and honored two extraordinary individuals: Dr. Jane Goodall and Rick Mercer.
The evening began with a soulful performance by Haitian musician and long-time APJ supporter Paul Beaubrun, setting a vibrant and emotional tone. Returning as emcees, APJ Board Members George Stroumboulopoulos and Kardinal Offishall expressed heartfelt gratitude to the guests and supporters who made the event possible.
Reflecting on 16 Years of Achievements
Natasha Koifman’s opening remarks reflected the event’s significance. As she commemorated the gala’s 16th anniversary, Koifman highlighted the profound impact the organization has achieved since its inception. The APJ Academy for Peace and Justice, Haiti’s first free high school, was built following the devastating 2010 earthquake and has since provided education to over 31,000 students. To date, APJ has raised an incredible $36 million, creating a safe haven and a beacon of hope for Haitian students.
This year’s proceeds also benefitted the Jane Goodall Institute of Canada, underscoring both organizations’ shared commitment to youth empowerment and resilience. Koifman emphasized the ongoing challenges Haiti faces and the critical role education plays in fostering hope and opportunity.
Honoring Dr. Jane Goodall and Rick Mercer
The gala’s honorees were introduced with deep reverence:
- Dr. Jane Goodall, renowned conservationist and humanitarian, was presented with the APJ Lifetime Achievement Award by tech entrepreneur and global environmentalist Dax Dasilva. The award celebrated Dr. Goodall’s groundbreaking work in conservation and her relentless dedication to advocating for nature and global citizenship.
- Rick Mercer, beloved comedian and social advocate, received the Canadian Changemaker Award from George Stroumboulopoulos, recognizing his philanthropic contributions and advocacy for social change.
The 2024 APJ Festival Gala featured incredible performances by long-time APJ supporters, including Nelly Furtado alongside Charlotte Day Wilson and Fefe Dobson, with a closing performance by the legendary Ben Harper, who performed two unforgettable songs with Eric Hendrikx.
A highlight of the evening was the live auction, sponsored by 2Fifteen by DBS Developments, showcasing exclusive artwork by celebrated artists such as Mr. Brainwash, Russell Young, and Peter Tunney. A memorable moment unfolded when Dr. Goodall joined auctioneer David Daniels on stage, passionately encouraging bids and even signing a piece by Mr. Brainwash, resulting in two signed editions for competing bidders. Additional auction items included exclusive concert experiences for Taylor Swift and Bruce Springsteen’s upcoming Toronto performances.
Guests also participated in a poignant “Fund the Need” moment led by Natasha Koifman and George Stroumboulopoulos, which highlighted the urgent requirement for student meals at the Haitian academy—a vital initiative ensuring students receive their one warm meal a day.
Gratitude to Sponsors and Supporters
The event concluded with gratitude extended to the generous sponsors who made the night possible, including 2Fifteen by DBS Developments, Air Canada, Audi, Breitling, Liberty Entertainment Group, Martha Franco, SMEG, Wise Family Foundation, Perigon, NKPR, and The Jane Goodall Institute of Canada.
APJ continues to thrive as a volunteer-driven organization under the direction of Natasha Koifman and the dedicated APJ Board. With NKPR providing pro bono services, the organization has been able to channel vital funds directly into its impactful initiatives. For more information on the 2024 APJ Festival Gala or to support APJ’s mission, visit www.apjnow.org or follow @artistsforpeace on social media.
