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Toronto-Kingston Music Experience

The Gupta Family Foundation
Toronto-Kingston Music Experience

Empowering the next generation of music creators through cross-cultural collaboration.
The Gupta Family Foundation Toronto-Kingston Music Experience

About the program

The Gupta Family Foundation Toronto-Kingston Music Experience is a dynamic international exchange connecting emerging music creators from Canada and Jamaica. Developed through a partnership between The Creative School at Toronto Metropolitan University and The Gupta Family Foundation, the program offers one-week immersive experiences in both Toronto and Kingston. Participants collaborate across cultures, learn from industry professionals, and gain hands-on training in music creation, business, and entrepreneurship.

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Program Dates

Kingston to Toronto:
July 19–26, 2026 

Toronto to Kingston:
October 2026

Dates subject to final confirmation.

Program Highlights

Collaborative Workshops

Work with fellow artists, songwriters, and producers to create original music.

Industry Mentorship

Learn from experienced music professionals and gain insights into the global music business.

Cultural Exchange

Immerse yourself in the music, culture, and creative industries of both Toronto and Kingston.

Entrepreneurship Skills

Build the knowledge to turn artistry into sustainable careers.


Program Details

  • Emerging music creators, including artists, songwriters, and producers
  • Individuals interested in cross-cultural collaboration and music entrepreneurship
  • Participants must be able to commit to the full program in both locations
  • Flights between program locations
  • Accommodation
  • All scheduled program activities
  • Participants are responsible for meals, personal spending, and incidental expenses.

Who is eligible?

Emerging music creators with a focus on collaboration and entrepreneurship.

How long is the program?

One-week immersive experience in each location.

What costs are included?

Flights, accommodation, and program activities are included. Meals and personal expenses are the responsibility of participants.

Where can I apply?

Application form linked here: https://forms.gle/7LtasFcwh4EMEWRg9 (external link) . Please note that applications are now closed.


Learn more and apply

The program selection is now completed


Inaugural Cohort

Indie Allen

Producer, Songwriter, Singer/Recording Artist, Lyricist, Beat maker
Genre(s): Reggae

Indie Allen

Indie Allen is a Jamaican reggae and Dancehall artist whose career reflects persistence, authenticity, and powerful vocal presence. Rising to national attention as a Digicel Rising Stars finalist, he has since shared stages with major Caribbean performers and collaborated with respected regional and international acts. His first Disney sync placement expanded his reach to a global audience, while his debut EP introduced a soulful blend of reggae and Dancehall rooted in emotion and storytelling. Known for his signature falsetto and raspy tenor, Indie captivates listeners worldwide and continues shaping his place within the evolving landscape of modern reggae music today.

Instagram@indiemename (external link) 

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nascent the future

Producer, Songwriter, Singer/Recording Artist, Beat maker, Other
Genre(s): Dancehall and reggae

nascent the future

Nascent The Future is a Kingston, Jamaica–born recording artist, producer, and engineer known for blending social commentary with themes of growth, purpose, and love. Raised in Duhaney Park and shaped by his musical parents and church choir, he developed a passion for singing and production from an early age. Since debuting in 2021, he has worked with artists such as Sizzla Kalonji, Lisa Hyper, Heph B, and Delawness. His sound fuses reggae, dancehall, R&B, and hip-hop. Following his EP “Spring In The Summer,” he prepares for “ELDAH,” continuing his mission to inspire through healing, self-development, and authentic expression.

Instagram@nascentthefuture (external link) 

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Ken Ellis

Producer, Songwriter, Singer/Recording Artist, Beat maker
Genre(s): Soul Reggae

Ken Ellis

Kenardo Ellis, artistically known as ‘Ken Ellis’ is a roots and jazz artist. His contemporary blend of classic soul and reggae has created a unique vocal sound, resonating among both the mature and youthful musical ear. Inspired by artists such as Ray Charles, Aretha Franklin, Al Green, Bob Marley, Lucky Dube, John Mayer, Delroy Wilson to name a few, Ken has infused his  sound with the teachings from these muses creating a soul roots style of singing and performance. He hails from Manchester Jamaica and undertook studies in music performance at the Edna Manley College Of The Visual and Performing Arts. He was also the lead singer of the 6Points Band playing on numerous events across the island.

Instagram@ken_ellisofficial (external link) 

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DeAnna

Producer, Songwriter, Singer/Recording Artist, Lyricist
Genre(s): Alternative

DeAnna

DeAnna is a 23-year-old multidisciplinary artist living in St. Catherine. She has trained in numerous dance styles, primarily ballet, and began singing and writing songs as a child.  She is an expressive, vivacious person who is passionate about the performing arts. She writes poetry and prose. She started her acting journey in 2025 and has since been in 5 theatre productions. She started teaching herself to play guitar at 15 and released her first single “Circuit Fried” in 2021. Since receiving a bachelor’s degree in ‘International Relations’ in July 2025 she has been working as a freelance performer and creator. 

Instagram@deannakerona (external link) 

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Zuri Aiko

Songwriter, Singer/Recording Artist, Lyricist, Other
Genre(s): Neo Soul, Jazz, Reggae Fusion

Zuri Aiko

Zuri Aiko is a multi-instrumentalist, vocalist, and writer, born in Japan and raised in Jamaica, where she currently resides.  Her diverse upbringing has shaped her eclectic musical style, blending influences from jazz, neo-soul, and reggae into a unique and innovative sound. An anomaly in Jamaican music history, she broke new ground as the first female student at the Alpha School of Music in its 145-year history, breaking traditions at an institution that was originally a boys' school. She has collaborated with Mikey Bennett and the Music Manifestors Collective, co-writing and singing in the Afrobeat/reggae anthem "Wake Up Jamaica", an initiative led by Stephanie Marley to inspire national engagement. With her talent, passion, and groundbreaking achievements, Zuri Aiko is a rising force in the global music scene.

Instagram@realzuriaiko (external link) 

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DC Stuban

Producer, Songwriter, Singer/Recording Artist
Genre(s): Dancehall/raggae

DC Stuban

DC Stuban , A reggae danchall artist originating from St Catherine Spainish Town , He was born December 2 , 1998 at the spainish town hospital,  was the last child for his mother and father. He was a lover of music from the day he was born , it's such a natural process with him and music he as released more than three Ep and his getting ready to reused a next body of work very very soon. He keeps pushing his music everyday to reach more people because he's always dream to have world music reach , his doing shows and collaboration world wide make his brand a state ment of reach and culture. This artist will never stop he lives a life of music 

Instagram@dcstubangenuine_akatsuki (external link) 

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JEL$KULL

Producer, Songwriter, Singer/Recording Artist, Beat maker
Genre(s): Rnb Dancehall

JEL$KULL

Jelani Morgan, known professionally as JEL$KULL, is a Jamaican artist, Producer & Musician from Kingston, Jamaica . His music has been described as having a "colorful sound" and a distinctive "symphonic flow".

Rising from the city of Kingston , Jamaica, JEL$KULL is an artist quickly on the come up – using a combination of a distinctive melodious voice & expressive harmonies to captivate supporters , peers and critics alike. Articulating his intimate feelings and working through them through his use of colorful melodies typically delivered through his uniquely dulcet voice, JEL$KULL is determined to prove to be a outstanding member of his generation’s Music scene.

Instagram@Jelskull_ (external link) 

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Sobah

Songwriter, Singer/Recording Artist, Lyricist
Genre(s): Reggae

Sobah

Sobah is a 25-year-old Jamaican reggae and crossover artist whose music speaks to the heart of the human experience. Born and raised in Jamaica, Sobah has carved out a distinctive sound that bridges reggae's rich roots with contemporary crossover appeal. Inspired by love, society, and the complexities of the human condition, his songwriting reflects a deep emotional intelligence and cultural awareness. As an emegering performer, Sobah has graced several stages and collaborated with fellow artists in her field, steadily building her reputation as a compelling voice in modern reggae. 

Instagram@Lovesobah (external link) 

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Amanyea

Songwriter, Singer/Recording Artist, Lyricist
Genre(s): Dancehall, Reggae, Jamapiano

Amanyea

Amanyea is a versatile Jamaican recording artist, dancer, and choreographer whose work effortlessly bridges the gap between movement and sound. A mezzo-soprano with a signature style that fuses Dancehall, Pop, Amapiano, and RnB, she has been recognized as one of Pandora’s "Artists to Watch." Her stage presence is backed by an extensive performance background, including her tenure as a lead performer and Dance Captain in the Bob Marley Hope Road production in Las Vegas and years as a member of the renowned L’Acadco dance company.

A visionary creative known for her "androgynous girly" aesthetic, Amanyea weaves soul and depth into every performance. Whether she is choreographing for the Grand Gala in Jamaica or recording her latest project, she remains dedicated to high-level storytelling and authentic cross-cultural collaboration.

Instagram@Amanyea (external link) 

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Halric

Producer, Songwriter, Singer/Recording Artist, Lyricist, Beat maker
Genre(s): Reggae/Afrobeats

Halric

Halric aka Halric BPM is a multi-genre music producer/beatmaker, guitarist, vocalist/songwriter, and mixing engineer. For Halric, BPM does not only mean “Beats per minute” but it represents “Beats, Passion, Message”. Beats being the core of his creativity, Passion being the catalyst of his motivation to do music, and the Message being what he hopes sticks with you long after the music stops. Halric has worked with a number of independent artists since 2022 with one mission in mind…to inspire. To help people push past doubt, stay God-led, and believe their dreams are worth investing in.

Instagram@halricbpm (external link) 

Osé

Songwriter, Singer/Recording Artist
Genre(s): Afro-Soul

Osé

Osé is a rising AfroSoul singer and songwriter shaping a sound that sits at the intersection of African contemporary music and global R&B. Born in Benin City, Nigeria and raised in Toronto, her artistry is grounded in a rich cross-cultural perspective, brought to life through a distinct voice and striking emotional depth.

As her profile continues to rise, Osé is gaining recognition for her unique sonic identity and global appeal. Her growing list of collaborators and supporters includes acclaimed artists such as Tems and H.E.R.—industry co-signs that signal a widening international reach and reflect her accelerating momentum across stages and streaming platforms.

Instagram@theofficialose (external link) 

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J Anderson

Singer/Recording Artist
Genre(s): Pop Rap

J Anders

J Anders is a 19-year-old artist from Toronto crafting a dynamic, melodic sound deeply rooted in the city’s culture, blending pop rap with influences from R&B, hip hop, dancehall, house, and reggaeton. At just 13 years old, after a year of experimenting, he began uploading music to streaming platforms in 2020 and has since released over 40 songs. Known for his consistency, he drops new music every month, steadily building his audience. Inspired by artists like Drake, The Weeknd, and PARTYNEXTDOOR, he aims to create music that makes his unique sound stand out while making a name for himself.

Instagram@j.anders06 (external link) 

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Narh (NVRHCOS)

Producer, Songwriter, Beat maker
Genre(s): Afro/Dancehall

Narh (NVRHCOS)

NVRHCOS is a music producer focused on creating real, impactful sounds. He enjoys blending different styles and building melodies that connect with people. Based in Canada, he’s been growing his craft, working with artists, and building his sound day by day. He’s always looking to improve and take his music to the next level. His goal is to become a well-known producer and engineer, land major placements, and help shape today’s sound. With a strong passion for music and creativity, NVRHCOS continues to learn, experiment, and bring fresh ideas to every project he works on.

Instagram@nvrhcos (external link) 

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OTR

Producer, Beat maker, Other
Genre(s): R&B

OTR

OTR is a Toronto-based recording & mixing engineer, DJ, and cultural operator whose work sits at the intersection of sound, experience, and global music culture. A Grammy-nominated and gold-certified engineer, he has contributed to over 1,000 records and 2,000 studio sessions, building a reputation for precision, clarity, and the ability to elevate music at the highest level.

Instagram@Mixedbyotr (external link) 

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savvan

Producer, Songwriter, Beat maker
Genre(s): R&B/Soul, Pop & Hiphop

savvan

OTR is a Toronto-based recording & mixing engineer, DJ, and cultural operator Savvan is a Canadian producer, multi-instrumentalist, and music director. Blending Western and Eastern musical traditions, he creates a distinctive sound rooted in R&B, pop, and hip-hop. He works across the full creative process as a producer, recording, and mixing engineer, bringing ideas to life from concept to final record. His work has earned a nomination for Best Pop Song at the IIMA’s. Beyond commercial music, Savvan is also a film composer, receiving an honorable mention for Best Original Score at the Los Angeles Independent Film Awards. He is driven by a vision to create music that transcends cultures, languages, and genres, bringing people together through sound.

Instagram@savvansound (external link) 

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Divine Lightbody

Producer, Songwriter, Singer/Recording Artist, Lyricist
Genre(s): R&B

Divine Lightbody

Divine Lightbody is an emerging R&B and soul artist born and raised in the Greater Toronto Area, where the city’s rich cultural pulse shaped her sound and artistic identity. A vocalist, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist, she creates deeply emotive, cinematic music that blends jazz influence, gospel depth, and modern R&B sensuality. Her journey began at the piano in childhood, where music became both her sanctuary and her way of translating emotion into story. She first gained national attention on The Launch and has since collaborated withGrammy-winning producer Matthew Burnett on work for Tyla, as well as with Xavier Omär.

Known for her captivating stage presence and spiritual, vulnerable songwriting, Divine continues to carve out a world that feels both intimate and expansive. Nowadays, she can be found writing late into the night, performing across major cities, and deepening her artistic voice through intentional collaboration and live performance. Her music has resonated globally, surpassing 3 million streams across platforms and solidifying her as one of Canada’s most compelling rising voices in R&B.

Instagram@divinelightbody (external link) 

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Omega Mighty

Songwriter, Singer/Recording Artist
Genre(s): Reggae-Dancehall/Pop

Omega Mighty

Canadian island-pop artist Omega Mighty delivers an eclectic sound, seamlessly shifting between Jamaican patois, sultry vocals, and an energetic rap flow. Blending Pop and R&B with Reggae and Dancehall, she infuses her music with her Caribbean heritage.

Born to a Jamaican father and a British-Bajan mother, music has been part of Omega’s life from the very beginning—playing records at home remains one of her earliest memories. Raised in Toronto, one of the world’s most diverse cities, she was immersed in a rich cultural landscape that helped shape her distinctive sound.

Her third project, REGENESIS, features collaborations with dancehall legend Pamputtae and LTL’s One Don. A 2024 JUNO Award nominee for Reggae Recording of the Year, recipient of Brampton’s Citizen Arts Acclaim Award (2025), and named one of Billboard Canada’s Artists to Watch (2025), Omega Mighty is a rising force to be reckoned with.

Instagram@omegamighty_ (external link) 

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Manna Music

Producer, Songwriter, Beat maker
Genre(s): Punjabi Music

Manna Music

Manna Music is a Canadian music producer and creative visionary known for blending Punjabi influences with modern hip-hop and pop sounds. With a distinct ear for melody and hard-hitting production, he has collaborated with notable artists, including Karan Aujla, and contributed to chart-worthy releases. His work has earned industry recognition, including a Juno Award nomination and sync placements in television. As the driving force behind Double M Records, Manna Music continues to shape the next wave of global Punjabi music, combining cultural authenticity with contemporary sound to create records that resonate worldwide.

Instagram@mannamusicc (external link) 

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Mighloe

Songwriter, Singer/Recording Artist, Lyricist
Genre(s): Alternative, neo soul, R&B, indie pop

Mighloe

Mighloe is a Toronto-based singer-songwriter creating intimate, atmospheric music rooted in alternative R&B and soul. A graduate of The Remix Project and the SOCAN Incubator, she’s known for her raw honesty and emotionally rich vocals. Her work has been recognized by platforms like R&B Radar and EscapeTracks, with radio support from CBC and BBC, and a standout performance on COLORSxSTUDIOS. After placing 3rd in RBCx The Vocalist, she continues to evolve her sound, blending neo-soul and indie rock, while building a deeply honest, immersive world through her music.

Instagram@mighloe (external link) 

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Joshua Lucas

Producer, Singer/Recording Artist, Beat maker, Other
Genre(s): Reggae

Joshua Lucas

Joshua Lucas, known as ‘The Future,’ is one of Canada’s most versatile Caribbean DJs, producers, and cultural curators. A JUNO Award-winning musician and founder of Avalanche Productions, he is known for his authentic selections, sharp mixing, and deep knowledge of Reggae, Dancehall, and Soca music. Starting his DJ journey at just 9 years old, Joshua has grown into an internationally recognized talent, performing across Canada, Jamaica, Trinidad & Tobago, Turks & Caicos, and the United Kingdom. He is the creator of Skankin’ Sweet, one of Toronto’s leading reggae party brands, and also serves as Musical Director for Toronto Revellers Carnival Band.

Instagram@joshuaxlucas (external link) 


Leadership Team

Dr. Charlie Wall-Andrews

Program Director, Professional Music, Assistant Professor, Creative Industries
The Creative School, Toronto Metropolitan University

Sadia Kamran

 (external link) 

Associate Director, External Relations & International Engagement
The Creative School, Toronto Metropolitan University

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Aamina Mohamed-Edoo

International Programs Coordinator
The Creative School, Toronto Metropolitan University

Partnership & Impact

Partnership & Impact

This initiative is made possible through a $150,000+ investment from
The Gupta Family Foundation

In partnership with Toronto Metropolitan University, the program strengthens TMU’s international creative network and celebrates the power of music to unite cultures, foster innovation, and empower future industry leaders.

Reetu Gupta is the Ambassadress of The Gupta Group and helps lead the vision of the Gupta Family Foundation. 

Reetu Gupta

A spiritual leader, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, Reetu believes in the power of culture, creativity, and human connection to open doors and transform lives. Through her work, she champions initiatives that create access, inspire purpose, and empower the next generation. The Toronto–Kingston Music Experience reflects that vision by bringing together emerging creators across borders to learn, collaborate, and build something meaningful through music.

“Music is poetry for the soul, and knowledge is eternal. Through this partnership, we aim to educate and empower creators, providing music and business education that transforms artistry into entrepreneurship.”

Reetu Gupta, Ambassadress, The Gupta Group

Explore our global programs

For more information about The Creative School international programs, visit the The Creative School Global Learning Programs website.

Contact Us

If you have any questions about The Gupta Family Foundation Toronto-Kingston Music Experience program, or want to learn more about Global Learning at The Creative School, email global.creative@torontomu.ca