FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Sizzla and Urban Rez Solutions Lead Toronto Call to End Gun Violence at Landmark Event
Toronto, ON – September 3, 2025 — Iconic reggae artist Sizzla Kalonji is set to headline Rise to the Occasion, a landmark community fundraiser and dialogue hosted by the Sizzla Youth Foundation and Urban Rez Solutions Social Enterprise to address solutions to gun violence. The event takes place on Saturday, September 6, 2025, at The Backyard, 4439 Lawrence Ave E, Scarborough, beginning at 3:00 PM.
Designed as both a cultural experience and a platform for action, the afternoon will blend spoken word, live performances, and in-depth conversations. While music and poetry set the atmosphere, the true focus of Rise to the Occasion is on dialogue, prevention, and mobilizing communities toward peace.
In 2016, under Sizzla’s leadership, August Town achieved an entire year free of gun violence — a milestone that inspired global attention. “When August Town came together, we proved that peace is possible,” said Sizzla Kalonji. “Toronto has the same power within its communities. This event is about planting that seed, so we can see what happens when unity replaces violence.”
Program Highlights: At the heart of the event will be an exclusive interview by Elaine Robinson of Ghetto Stories and SPEX, Da Boss, who will speak with Sizzla about his foundation, community development, and his call for peace. This will be followed by a Solutions Fireside Chat, moderated by Farley Flex Nwaigbo and Roderick Brereton, alongside local community leaders. Together, they will address the urgent issues of gun violence and crime while exploring real, community-driven solutions.
“Urban Rez Solutions has always believed in the power of culture, dialogue, and prevention,” said Roderick Brereton, Co-Executive Director at Urban Rez Solutions. “Partnering with the Sizzla Youth Foundation shows what can happen when we align vision with action for real community transformation.”
This moment is not only about honoring Sizzla’s work but also about envisioning what a safer, stronger future can look like for Toronto’s most challenged communities.
Echoing that message, Farley Flex Nwaigbo, Co-Executive Director at Urban Rez Solutions, added: “Toronto has everything it needs to build safer, stronger neighborhoods. Our goal is to spark that change — together. This event represents the first step in creating a blueprint that other communities across Canada can follow.”
Tickets: General admission is $40. A VIP package includes a meet-and-greet and photo opportunities with Sizzla. Tickets are available online at: https://luma.com/Sizzla.
Proceeds support the Sizzla Youth Foundation and Urban Rez Solutions Social Enterprise.
What makes Rise to the Occasion unique is its combination of cultural expression and solution-driven dialogue. This event blends performance, lived experience, and grassroots leadership with a focus on actionable strategies to reduce violence. It is both a celebration of culture and a catalyst for change, designed to leave Toronto inspired and mobilized.
About Urban Rez Solutions Social Enterprise (URSSE)
Urban Rez Solutions Social Enterprise is a Toronto-based organization dedicated to building safer, stronger communities through culturally relevant programs, conflict mediation, and youth empowerment. Its initiatives include youth violence and human trafficking prevention, employment support, workforce development, and community mobile outreach. URSSE works in partnership with governments, nonprofits, and grassroots leaders to provide innovative solutions that address systemic barriers while fostering social and economic opportunity.
About the Sizzla Youth Foundation
Founded by international reggae artist Sizzla Kalonji, the Sizzla Youth Foundation is committed to uplifting young people and strengthening communities through education, skills training, and cultural initiatives. Based in August Town, Jamaica, the Foundation focuses on empowering youth to create sustainable change, combat violence, and unlock opportunities for future generations. Its vision is rooted in unity, peace, and community development, using music and mentorship as powerful tools for transformation.
How to get involved?
For partnerships, to request services in your community, or to access further information, visit urbanrez.org
Members of the media are invited to attend and cover this landmark event.
MEDIA CONTACT
BrandEQ Agency
Email: pr@brandeq.com
Nadine Spencer – 416-708-0521
Danielle Spencer – 416-315-0697
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