Yonis is part of a new generation of leaders proving that culture can drive change as powerfully as policy. As co-founder of Active Cause, he’s helping artists, athletes and creatives use their platforms to fund community initiatives and social movements. The organization has partnered across music, sport and fashion to launch creative funds, global summits and projects that channel influence into tangible impact. Grounded in both advocacy and artistry, Yonis’ work describes what philanthropy looks like when led by the people who shape culture itself.

He is putting artists first while putting forth the resources they need. He has partnered with Raffa Investment Advisers and Endaoment, connecting artists with funding and charity-related resources. Through collaborations with Toronto artists like SadBoi, Baka Not Nice and Roy Woods for grants and with music platforms like COLORSxSTUDIOS and OnTheRadar for shows and collaborative initiatives around the world, he has created a global legacy for Active Cause in just six months.

“What really drives me right now is watching Canadian artists grow into their global voice,” he says. “The music coming out of this country has always carried something vivid, raw and honest. A kind of emotional intelligence that connects people across borders. Canadians don’t just make songs; we make sense of the world. Our Canadian artists are the new cultural ambassadors, and they’re doing it through authenticity, not permission.”