Robel Adugna
Robel Adugna is a passionate community leader, organizer, and changemaker dedicated to empowering the next generation of Ethiopians and Eritreans through education, culture, and collective action. Robel strives to create a transformative platform rooted in mentorship, wellness, cultural pride, and personal development for Ethiopian and Eritrean youth in the Greater Toronto Area. Robel has always believed in the strength of community and the power of representation. With a background in policy, youth engagement, and grassroots programming, he has led and supported numerous initiatives that address racial equity, access to opportunity, and youth leadership. His work spans education, the arts, mental wellness, and civic engagement—all guided by a deep love for his people and community. Robel’s vision is clear: to build spaces where Ethiopians and Eritreans are not only seen but celebrated, appreciated, and are equipped to lead, create, and thrive. He continues to mentor emerging leaders, build partnerships, and create programs that center cultural connection, joy, and growth. He remains committed to challenging systems, uplifting community voices, and ensuring that the next generation has the tools and confidence to walk in their purpose.
The On the Horizon Showcase
Celebrating culture, creativity, and community through music, movement, storytelling, and connection. The On the Horizon Showcase is a dynamic community showcase uplifting local Ethiopian and Eritrean creatives through music, dance, storytelling, and visual art. The event fosters connection, celebrates cultural heritage, and provides a platform for emerging talent to shine. By centering community voices and artistic expression, The showcase inspires dialogue, unity, and pride, while highlighting the richness of our narratives while building bridges between generations, disciplines, and diasporas for lasting social and cultural impact.
About this Project
Communities Served
My project will involve and/or impact the following communities:
United Nations Sustainable Development Goals
When it comes to community impact projects, the UN has created 17 Sustainable Development Goals. These are the Sustainable Development Goals associated with my project.
How the project works
The project includes artist outreach, rehearsals, community workshops, and a live showcase event. Activities take place over eight weeks, culminating in a public performance that celebrates local Ethiopian and Eritrean creatives through music, dance, and storytelling, while fostering community engagement and cultural pride.
Project Impact
On the Horizon empowers Ethiopian and Eritrean creatives by providing a platform to share their stories, build networks, and gain visibility. It fosters cultural pride, community connection, and intergenerational dialogue. The project inspires youth, strengthens local identity, and amplifies underrepresented voices through accessible, high-quality arts experiences rooted in Toronto. The project inspires youth, strengthens local identity, and amplifies underrepresented voices. Audiences leave feeling uplifted, connected, and more deeply engaged with the richness of local and cultural artistry.
Project Mission
The mission of On the Horizon Showcase is to spotlight local Ethiopian and Eritrean talent while nurturing creativity, collaboration, and cultural exchange. The project seeks to cultivate a supportive platform for emerging artists, engage diverse audiences, and spark meaningful conversations through music, dance, and storytelling that reflect the lived experiences of the Ethiopian and Eritrean community across Toronto.
Project Team
Led by Robel Adugna with support from two dedicated volunteers passionate about arts and community.
- Robel Adugna
Donate to Sprout to support fellows
Support young social innovators by donating to the Sprout Ideas Fund, providing capacity-building and resources needed to launch projects that create positive social change.
Donate Now