The World Design Capital initiative promotes the exploration of using art as a medium for civic engagement and change. However, throughout this experience there has been something lacking in regards to the inclusion of artists of color.

Join artists Melinda Barnadas, Khalil Bleux, Thao French, and Yvette Roman with Barry Pollard as they share and uplift these voices, projects, and experiences to explore and create a template for what true belonging can look like in communities of color.

Moderated by musician, practice consultant, and creator Kendrick Dial.

• Date and Time: Wednesday, October 30, 2024, 4:00 - 7:00 pm

• Location: Exchange Pavilion @ Balboa Park’s Plaza de Panama (in front of the San Diego Museum of Art)

• Cost: Free admission

• RSVP: Sign up on Eventbrite to let us know you’ll be there

RISE San Diego is changing the landscape of leadership, and RISE Arts aims to help arts and culture nonprofits, artists, and cultural practitioners throughout the San Diego-Imperial Valley region to grow and thrive. Visit the RISE Arts page and join our email list to receive updates on upcoming events and programs.

Save the date for the 8th Annual celebration of the RISE Inclusive Leadership in Action (ILIA) Awards—details to be announced Spring 2024

• Learn more about the awards and meet our 2023 honorees

• Nominate a community leader for the 2024 awards

• Join our mailing list for event updates and ticket announcements

• Sponsor the 2024 ILIA Awards and support inclusive leadership in the San Diego region

• Reach out to the RISE team with any questions on how to get involved!

Join Fresh Glass co-founders Cassandra Schaeg and Theresa Hoiles for the premier of Season Two! Celebrate unique flavors, captivating stories, and the entrepreneurial spirit of America’s tapestry.

In September 2022, the brazened stories of women and minority-owned businesses burst on the scene, coming to life on KPBS and PBS with Season One of Fresh Glass. Showcasing California's most loved locations and experiences, the series featured 18 businesses created or led by women, BIPOC, and LGBTQIA+ innovators and celebrated their respective journeys and triumphs. Fresh Glass received two Emmy® nominations and one win for the Magazine Program from the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences.

• Event date and time: Wednesday, October 2 at 6:00 pm

• Location: UCSD Park & Market, 1100 Market St, San Diego, CA 92101

• Tickets: Purchase online via Eventbrite

• For more information: Email contact@freshglassproductions.com

Fresh Glass is a series that takes a deep dive into the wine and beer industry with guests whose backgrounds, personalities, and journeys symbolize empowerment, grit, and perseverance. Learn more at freshglassproductions.com.

Join our Far South/Border North (FSBN) hub partner, the Imperial Valley Food Bank, for a weekend celebrating their FSBN artists!

• Event dates and times:

  • Friday, September 20, 6:00 - 9:00 pm — Gallery Opening & Cocktail Party

  • Saturday, September 21, 2:00 - 8:00 pm

  • Sunday, September 22, 12:00 - 4:00 pm

• Location: Casa de Manana, 200 E Imperial St, Imperial, CA 92251

• Cost: Free admission

• For more information: Email Imperial Valley Food Bank at info@ivfoodbank.com

The Imperial Valley Food Bank aims to ensure that all residents have access to adequate amounts of nutritionally valuable food. To improve the quality of life within their community, their programs and staff support the distribution of healthy food and provide outreach and awareness about CalFresh assistance. Learn more at ivfoodbank.com and follow them on Instagram.

Join our Far South/Border North (FSBN) hub partner, the Imperial Valley Food Bank, for a weekend celebrating their FSBN artists!

• Event dates and times:

  • Friday, September 20, 6:00 - 9:00 pm — Gallery Opening & Cocktail Party

  • Saturday, September 21, 2:00 - 8:00 pm

  • Sunday, September 22, 12:00 - 4:00 pm

• Location: Casa de Manana, 200 E Imperial St, Imperial, CA 92251

• Cost: Free admission

• For more information: Email Imperial Valley Food Bank at info@ivfoodbank.com

The Imperial Valley Food Bank aims to ensure that all residents have access to adequate amounts of nutritionally valuable food. To improve the quality of life within their community, their programs and staff support the distribution of healthy food and provide outreach and awareness about CalFresh assistance. Learn more at ivfoodbank.com and follow them on Instagram.

Join our Far South/Border North (FSBN) hub partner, the Imperial Valley Food Bank, for a weekend celebrating their FSBN artists!

• Event dates and times:

  • Friday, September 20, 6:00 - 9:00 pm — Gallery Opening & Cocktail Party

  • Saturday, September 21, 2:00 - 8:00 pm

  • Sunday, September 22, 12:00 - 4:00 pm

• Location: Casa de Manana, 200 E Imperial St, Imperial, CA 92251

• Cost: Free admission

• For more information: Email Imperial Valley Food Bank at info@ivfoodbank.com

The Imperial Valley Food Bank aims to ensure that all residents have access to adequate amounts of nutritionally valuable food. To improve the quality of life within their community, their programs and staff support the distribution of healthy food and provide outreach and awareness about CalFresh assistance. Learn more at ivfoodbank.com and follow them on Instagram.

Come uplift and celebrate the National City & Southeast Green Corridor Project and other transformative work in our region.

Join Urban Collaborative Project, Mundo Gardens, and conference partners in making the connections you need to further the change you envision.

Make the most of our keynote presentations on community land trusts, equitable economics, artivism, and environmental justice. Our breakout sessions will include a youth education component, urban farming, land use, and more!

• Event date and time: Wednesday, September 18 & Thursday, September 19, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

• Location: Educational Cultural Complex, 4343 Ocean View Blvd, San Diego, CA 92113

• Cost: Free admission

• For more information: Email Mundo Gardens at community@mundogardens.com

Mundo Gardens is a roots community garden program empowering youth and families throughout San Diego. Learn more about their work by following them on Facebook and Instagram.

Since 2013, the Urban Collaborative Project (UCP) has served the historically redlined community of Southeast San Diego. UCP empowers local residents to identify their neighborhood issues and address challenges together by using data and developing innovative resident-led projects. Learn more at www.ucproject.org.

Come uplift and celebrate the National City & Southeast Green Corridor Project and other transformative work in our region.

Join Urban Collaborative Project, Mundo Gardens, and conference partners in making the connections you need to further the change you envision.

Make the most of our keynote presentations on community land trusts, equitable economics, artivism, and environmental justice. Our breakout sessions will include a youth education component, urban farming, land use, and more!

• Event date and time: Wednesday, September 18 & Thursday, September 19, from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm

• Location: Educational Cultural Complex, 4343 Ocean View Blvd, San Diego, CA 92113

• Cost: Free admission

• For more information: Email Mundo Gardens at community@mundogardens.com

Mundo Gardens is a roots community garden program empowering youth and families throughout San Diego. Learn more about their work by following them on Facebook and Instagram.

Since 2013, the Urban Collaborative Project (UCP) has served the historically redlined community of Southeast San Diego. UCP empowers local residents to identify their neighborhood issues and address challenges together by using data and developing innovative resident-led projects. Learn more at www.ucproject.org.

Art Through the Glass is a public exhibition that transforms empty storefronts at the Chula Vista Center into vibrant galleries. This initiative breathes new life into the mall, reimagining vacant spaces as dynamic art installations. Visitors are invited to stroll through and experience a diverse array of artistic visions and narratives.

This is a unique opportunity to meet and greet the talented artists, galleries, creatives, and the esteemed Lead Curator Yvette Roman, all participating in this Summer 2024 season.

Join us in celebrating the diverse talents of incredible artists, including Danny Zavala, Hector Suchilt, Liliana Hueso, Ale Ruiz Tostado, Nonie Cruzado, Brisk One, Gala Semenova, Mikko Serrano, Betty Bangs, Kolten French, Robert “Bob Rob” Medina, Mensah Bey, Mezarte, T. Jay Santa Ana, and Sheena Rae Dowling. From fine art photography to vibrant murals, these artists bring their unique perspectives and creativity to the Chula Vista Center.

The exhibition will be on display September 14 - December 14, 2024.

• Event date and time: Saturday, September 14, 2:00 - 5:00 pm

• Location: Chula Vista Center, 555 Broadway Ste 2020-21, Chula Vista, CA 91910

• Cost: Free admission

• For more information: Email San Diego Art Society via their contact form

The San Diego Art Society’s “Art Through The Glass” initiative transforms storefront windows into vibrant galleries, creating a unique platform for local artists to showcase their creativity in high-traffic areas throughout San Diego. This innovative approach supports artists by providing unprecedented exposure, engages the community by making art accessible to everyone, beautifies our urban landscape, and potentially boosts the local economy. Learn more at sdartsociety.com and follow them on Instagram.

September 2024 marks RISE San Diego’s 10th Anniversary and we invite the community to celebrate this milestone with us!

Meet (or get reacquainted!) with RISE program participants, Fellows, board and staff, faculty, partners, and our tremendous community supporters like you as we celebrate a decade of leadership development, community building, and positive change in San Diego.

This in-person event will be filled with music, food, and inspiring connections. Please join us as we honor the past together and look ahead to our next decade of work.

• Event date and time (UPDATED): Wednesday, August 28

  • Doors at 7:00 pm

  • Film at 7:30 pm

• Location: Hill Street Country Club, 530 South Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054

• Cost: Free admission

Berenice Badillo’s Tu Puedes Mija is made possible in part by a grant from Far South/Border North

How can I find out more about Berenice Badillo, Far South/Border North, or RISE Arts?

Berenice Badillo is a Spanish-speaking Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, illustrator, muralist, and multimedia artist. An immigrant from Mexico, she has found herself straddling intertwined cultural and subcultural identities her entire life. She strives to document and encourage the creation of communal cultural wealth through murals, sculpture, pop up art galleries and in the co-creation of counter stories. Berenice is a Chicano Park muralist, has a doctorate in art therapy, and is a social emotional learning (SEL) consultant. Learn more about the artist at www.xoque-artinmotion.com.

Far South/Border North is a regional collaborative supporting artists and cultural practitioners in communities and the only program of its kind in San Diego and Imperial counties. Visit the FS/BN website to learn more about this two-year investment in our region’s arts and culture communities and the program’s grantees.

RISE San Diego is changing the landscape of leadership, and RISE Arts aims to help arts and culture nonprofits, artists, and cultural practitioners throughout the San Diego-Imperial Valley region to grow and thrive. Visit the RISE Arts page and join our email list to receive news about the FS/BN campaigns under development by Berenice Badillo and all 17 artists, cultural practitioners, and nonprofit organizations that are part of the RISE FS/BN Social Justice Impact Hub.

Join us on Tuesday, August 20 for our first RISE Arts Showcase when we celebrate the Far South/Border North (FS/BN) grantees in the RISE FS/BN Social Justice Hub! Stop by The Soap Factory to learn about the art and community engagement projects they’ve developed for this initiative over the past year, and find out more about our newest program pillar, RISE Arts, as you mingle and enjoy interactive activities, music, food, and more.

Come get to know these seventeen remarkable dancers, musicians, filmmakers, visual artists, playwrights, cultural practitioners, and nonprofit organizations and where to find them next: Trixi Anne Agiao · Berenice Badillo · Melinda Barnadas · Sandra Carmona · Kendrick Dial · Yolanda Marie Franklin · Thao French · Maxx Moses · Zaquia Mahler Salinas · Dinah Poellnitz · Yvette Roman + natalia ventura · Ruth-Ann Thorn · Samuel Valdez · San Diego Urban Warriors · Maraya Performing Arts · Urban Collaborative Project.

• Event date and time: Tuesday, August 20, 6:00 - 8:00 pm

• Location: The Soap Factory, 2995 Commercial St, San Diego, CA 92113

• Cost: Free admission—RSVP via Eventbrite

• Contact: arts@risesandiego.org

RISE San Diego’s RISE Arts Showcase is made possible with support from the Prebys Foundation

How can I find out more about RISE Arts, Far South/Border North, or the Prebys Foundation?

RISE San Diego is changing the landscape of leadership, and RISE Arts aims to help arts and culture nonprofits, artists, and cultural practitioners throughout the San Diego-Imperial Valley region to grow and thrive. Visit the RISE Arts page and join our email list to receive news about the Far South/Border North campaigns under development by the 17 artists, cultural practitioners, and nonprofit organizations that are part of the RISE FS/BN Social Justice Impact Hub.

Far South/Border North is a regional collaborative supporting artists and cultural practitioners in communities and the only program of its kind in San Diego and Imperial counties. Visit the FS/BN website to learn more about this two-year investment in our region’s arts and culture communities and the program’s grantees.

The Prebys Foundation seeks to create an inclusive, equitable, and dynamic future for all San Diegans by advancing excellence and shared opportunity through investments in groundbreaking institutions, ideas, and people. Learn more about Prebys and its initiatives on their website.

Join artist and Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist Berenice Badillo, PhD for this free in-person breast cancer art therapy group. The session will be held at the Hill Street Country Club where her Treacherous Titties solo exhibition of her breast cancer journey will be on display.

This workshop is open to breast cancer survivors and patients as well as their family and friends. Space is limited so please RSVP via email or DM via Instagram.

Remember art therapy is fun, does not require art experience, and helps you with identifying and managing your emotions. Plus you make great relationships!

• Event date and time: Saturday, August 17, 12:00 - 1:30 pm

• Location: Hill Street Country Club, 530 South Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054

• Cost: Free admission—please RSVP via email or send a DM via Instagram

Berenice Badillo’s Breast Cancer Art Therapy Workshop is made possible in part by a grant from Far South/Border North

How can I find out more about Berenice Badillo, Far South/Border North, or RISE Arts?

Berenice Badillo is a Spanish-speaking Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, illustrator, muralist, and multimedia artist. An immigrant from Mexico, she has found herself straddling intertwined cultural and subcultural identities her entire life. She strives to document and encourage the creation of communal cultural wealth through murals, sculpture, pop up art galleries and in the co-creation of counter stories. Berenice is a Chicano Park muralist, has a doctorate in art therapy, and is a social emotional learning (SEL) consultant. Learn more about the artist at www.xoque-artinmotion.com.

Far South/Border North is a regional collaborative supporting artists and cultural practitioners in communities and the only program of its kind in San Diego and Imperial counties. Visit the FS/BN website to learn more about this two-year investment in our region’s arts and culture communities and the program’s grantees.

RISE San Diego is changing the landscape of leadership, and RISE Arts aims to help arts and culture nonprofits, artists, and cultural practitioners throughout the San Diego-Imperial Valley region to grow and thrive. Visit the RISE Arts page and join our email list to receive news about the FS/BN campaigns under development by Berenice Badillo and all 17 artists, cultural practitioners, and nonprofit organizations that are part of the RISE FS/BN Social Justice Impact Hub.

Join artist Berenice Badillo for the opening reception of her solo exhibition, Treacherous Titties, and celebrate her being cancer-free! The event will take participants through the breast cancer journey through art and poetry and will feature Errrverybodi Line Dancers, poetry readings, free books, documentary unveilings, artist interviews, and art therapy groups throughout the afternoon.

• Event date and time: Sunday, August 11, 12:00 - 4:00 pm

• Location: Hill Street Country Club, 530 South Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054

• Cost: Free admission

Berenice Badillo’s Treacherous Titties exhibition is made possible in part by a grant from Far South/Border North

How can I find out more about Berenice Badillo, Far South/Border North, or RISE Arts?

Berenice Badillo is a Spanish-speaking Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, illustrator, muralist, and multimedia artist. An immigrant from Mexico, she has found herself straddling intertwined cultural and subcultural identities her entire life. She strives to document and encourage the creation of communal cultural wealth through murals, sculpture, pop up art galleries and in the co-creation of counter stories. Berenice is a Chicano Park muralist, has a doctorate in art therapy, and is a social emotional learning (SEL) consultant. Learn more about the artist at www.xoque-artinmotion.com.

Far South/Border North is a regional collaborative supporting artists and cultural practitioners in communities and the only program of its kind in San Diego and Imperial counties. Visit the FS/BN website to learn more about this two-year investment in our region’s arts and culture communities and the program’s grantees.

RISE San Diego is changing the landscape of leadership, and RISE Arts aims to help arts and culture nonprofits, artists, and cultural practitioners throughout the San Diego-Imperial Valley region to grow and thrive. Visit the RISE Arts page and join our email list to receive news about the FS/BN campaigns under development by Berenice Badillo and all 17 artists, cultural practitioners, and nonprofit organizations that are part of the RISE FS/BN Social Justice Impact Hub.

Way Outside the Lines presents Destination Joy! is an artistic event involving San Diego MTS Trolley cars and select stations to honor the colorful and rich culture of South San Diego, supporting the goals of Sustainable Transportation, Climate Change Mitigation, and Health & Well-Being.

The event will inspire audience members to examine the “lines” around them: how they exist, intersect, and engage with them throughout their daily lives.

• Event date and time: Saturday, August 3, 1:00 - 5:00 pm

• Location: The event begins at the Iris Avenue Trolley Station (San Ysidro) and ends at the Euclid Ave Trolley Station (Southeast San Diego)

• Cost: Free admission—register via Eventbrite

• Contact: Urban Collaborative Project at info@ucproject.org

Urban Collaborative Project’s Way Outside the Lines presents Destination Joy! is made possible in part by a grant from Far South/Border North

How can I find out more about Urban Collaborative Project, Far South/Border North, or RISE Arts?

The Urban Collaborative Project (UCP) has served the historically redlined community of Southeast San Diego since 2013. Using a Self-Healing Community Model, UCP empowers local residents to identify their neighborhood issues and address challenges together by using data and developing innovative resident-led projects. Learn more at www.ucproject.org.

Far South/Border North is a regional collaborative supporting artists and cultural practitioners in communities and the only program of its kind in San Diego and Imperial counties. Visit the FS/BN website to learn more about this two-year investment in our region’s arts and culture communities and the program’s grantees.

RISE San Diego is changing the landscape of leadership, and RISE Arts aims to help arts and culture nonprofits, artists, and cultural practitioners throughout the San Diego-Imperial Valley region to grow and thrive. Visit the RISE Arts page and join our email list to receive news about the FS/BN campaigns under development by Urban Collaborative Project and all 17 artists, cultural practitioners, and nonprofit organizations that are part of the RISE FS/BN Social Justice Impact Hub.

Way Outside the Lines presents Destination Joy! is an artistic event involving San Diego MTS Trolley cars and select stations to honor the colorful and rich culture of South San Diego, supporting the goals of Sustainable Transportation, Climate Change Mitigation, and Health & Well-Being.

The event will inspire audience members to examine the “lines” around them: how they exist, intersect, and engage with them throughout their daily lives.

• Event date and time: Sunday, August 4, 8:00 am - 12:00 noon

• Location: The event begins at the Iris Avenue Trolley Station (San Ysidro) and ends at the Euclid Ave Trolley Station (Southeast San Diego)

• Cost: Free admission—register via Eventbrite

• Contact: Urban Collaborative Project at info@ucproject.org

Urban Collaborative Project’s Way Outside the Lines presents Destination Joy! is made possible in part by a grant from Far South/Border North

How can I find out more about Urban Collaborative Project, Far South/Border North, or RISE Arts?

The Urban Collaborative Project (UCP) has served the historically redlined community of Southeast San Diego since 2013. Using a Self-Healing Community Model, UCP empowers local residents to identify their neighborhood issues and address challenges together by using data and developing innovative resident-led projects. Learn more at www.ucproject.org.

Far South/Border North is a regional collaborative supporting artists and cultural practitioners in communities and the only program of its kind in San Diego and Imperial counties. Visit the FS/BN website to learn more about this two-year investment in our region’s arts and culture communities and the program’s grantees.

RISE San Diego is changing the landscape of leadership, and RISE Arts aims to help arts and culture nonprofits, artists, and cultural practitioners throughout the San Diego-Imperial Valley region to grow and thrive. Visit the RISE Arts page and join our email list to receive news about the FS/BN campaigns under development by Urban Collaborative Project and all 17 artists, cultural practitioners, and nonprofit organizations that are part of the RISE FS/BN Social Justice Impact Hub.

Way Outside the Lines presents Destination Joy! is an artistic event involving San Diego MTS Trolley cars and select stations to honor the colorful and rich culture of South San Diego, supporting the goals of Sustainable Transportation, Climate Change Mitigation, and Health & Well-Being.

The event will inspire audience members to examine the “lines” around them: how they exist, intersect, and engage with them throughout their daily lives.

• Event date and time: Saturday, August 3, 1:00 - 5:00 pm

• Location: The event begins at the Iris Avenue Trolley Station (San Ysidro) and ends at the Euclid Ave Trolley Station (Southeast San Diego)

• Cost: Free admission—register via Eventbrite

• Contact: Urban Collaborative Project at info@ucproject.org

Urban Collaborative Project’s Way Outside the Lines presents Destination Joy! is made possible in part by a grant from Far South/Border North

How can I find out more about Urban Collaborative Project, Far South/Border North, or RISE Arts?

The Urban Collaborative Project (UCP) has served the historically redlined community of Southeast San Diego since 2013. Using a Self-Healing Community Model, UCP empowers local residents to identify their neighborhood issues and address challenges together by using data and developing innovative resident-led projects. Learn more at www.ucproject.org.

Far South/Border North is a regional collaborative supporting artists and cultural practitioners in communities and the only program of its kind in San Diego and Imperial counties. Visit the FS/BN website to learn more about this two-year investment in our region’s arts and culture communities and the program’s grantees.

RISE San Diego is changing the landscape of leadership, and RISE Arts aims to help arts and culture nonprofits, artists, and cultural practitioners throughout the San Diego-Imperial Valley region to grow and thrive. Visit the RISE Arts page and join our email list to receive news about the FS/BN campaigns under development by Urban Collaborative Project and all 17 artists, cultural practitioners, and nonprofit organizations that are part of the RISE FS/BN Social Justice Impact Hub.

Way Outside the Lines presents Destination Joy! is an artistic event involving San Diego MTS Trolley cars and select stations to honor the colorful and rich culture of South San Diego, supporting the goals of Sustainable Transportation, Climate Change Mitigation, and Health & Well-Being.

The event will inspire audience members to examine the “lines” around them: how they exist, intersect, and engage with them throughout their daily lives.

• Event date and time: Saturday, August 3, 8:00 am - 12:00 noon

• Location: The event begins at the Iris Avenue Trolley Station (San Ysidro) and ends at the Euclid Ave Trolley Station (Southeast San Diego)

• Cost: Free admission—register via Eventbrite

• Contact: Urban Collaborative Project at info@ucproject.org

Urban Collaborative Project’s Way Outside the Lines presents Destination Joy! is made possible in part by a grant from Far South/Border North

How can I find out more about Urban Collaborative Project, Far South/Border North, or RISE Arts?

The Urban Collaborative Project (UCP) has served the historically redlined community of Southeast San Diego since 2013. Using a Self-Healing Community Model, UCP empowers local residents to identify their neighborhood issues and address challenges together by using data and developing innovative resident-led projects. Learn more at www.ucproject.org.

Far South/Border North is a regional collaborative supporting artists and cultural practitioners in communities and the only program of its kind in San Diego and Imperial counties. Visit the FS/BN website to learn more about this two-year investment in our region’s arts and culture communities and the program’s grantees.

RISE San Diego is changing the landscape of leadership, and RISE Arts aims to help arts and culture nonprofits, artists, and cultural practitioners throughout the San Diego-Imperial Valley region to grow and thrive. Visit the RISE Arts page and join our email list to receive news about the FS/BN campaigns under development by Urban Collaborative Project and all 17 artists, cultural practitioners, and nonprofit organizations that are part of the RISE FS/BN Social Justice Impact Hub.

CARPA San Diego is proud to present La Carpa de la Frontera/Las Voces written and performed by CARPA San Diego, a touring Mexicano vaudeville show from San Diego, California and Tijuana, Baja California. The event is scheduled for one performance at the Community Actors Theatre (C.A.T.). Admission is free to the public.

La Carpa De La Frontera/Las Voces is a mobile people’s theater, a modern vaudeville show that travels to any community that wants to experience its comedy, drama, political satire, circus, music, and grassroots ‘edutainment.’ According to artistic director Samuel Valdez, these cultural productions allow audiences to experience the ‘Rascuache’ formula… (People’s Theater) that focuses on political and social artistic expression. Carpa San Diego works in the tradition of the 1960’s, 1970's, 1980's Chicano Mexicano revolutionary TEATRO movement and is rooted in the campesino and obrero tent shows (carpas) throughout Mexico in the early- and mid-20th century. Carpas were born during the Zapata, Villa, and Flores-Magon led Mexican Revolution as cultural manifestations of the national and class awakening and artistic expressions of the Mexican masses. Carpa San Diego respects, admires, and follows these artistic traditions of popular consciousness, unity, and struggle. Its shows are written, created, and performed by everyday working people for everyday working audiences.

• Event date and time: Saturday, July 20, 2024

  • Reception at 7:30 pm

  • Performance at 8:00 pm

• Location: Community Actors Theatre (C.A.T.), 2957 54th St, San Diego, CA 92105

  • Free parking available at Calvary Lutheran Church across the street on 54th

• Cost: Free admission—register here

Samuel Valdez’s La Carpa de la Frontera/Las Voces is made possible in part by a grant from Far South/Border North

How can I find out more about Samuel Valdez, Far South/Border North, or RISE Arts?

Samuel Valdez graduated from San Diego State University in 1991 with a BA degree in theater arts. He is an actor, playwright, director, and producer who has worked with groups around San Diego including Sledgehammer Theater, Chronos Theater, and Los Amigos del Rep, and he leads CARPA San Diego, his own bi-national performing arts company. Samuel has served on the National Performance Network board, the Alternate Roots Executive Committee, and the National Disability Theatre board. Learn more about the artist and Carpa San Diego on Facebook.

Far South/Border North is a regional collaborative supporting artists and cultural practitioners in communities and the only program of its kind in San Diego and Imperial counties. Visit the FS/BN website to learn more about this two-year investment in our region’s arts and culture communities and the program’s grantees.

RISE San Diego is changing the landscape of leadership, and RISE Arts aims to help arts and culture nonprofits, artists, and cultural practitioners throughout the San Diego-Imperial Valley region to grow and thrive. Visit the RISE Arts page and join our email list to receive news about the FS/BN campaigns under development by Samuel Valdez and all 17 artists, cultural practitioners, and nonprofit organizations that are part of the RISE FS/BN Social Justice Impact Hub.

San Diego Urban Warriors will host the 32nd Annual Kuumba Fest “Black II Restoration” celebration this June with three days of positive images, healthy challenges, and rejuvenation for the mind, body, and spirit through art, culture, and edutainment.

Sunday, June 30: Day of Rejuvenation

1:00 pm — Mr. Black C.A.T. San Diego 2024, reopening of the African Marketplace including African music, cultural atmosphere, and Royal Seasoned Elders Village with pampering, massages and special care for guest 60+

2:30 pm — Seasoned Guys & Dolls Style & Fashion Show

3:00 pm — Gospel Music & Praise Dance for hand-clapping, foot-stomping spiritual rejuvenation

• Event date and time: Sunday, June 30, 1:00 - 5:00 pm

• Location: Educational Cultural Complex, 4343 Ocean View Blvd, San Diego, CA 92113

• Cost: Free

• Contact: Visit sduw.org for more information

San Diego Urban Warriors’ 32nd Annual Kuumba Fest is made possible in part by a grant from Far South/Border North

How can I find out more about San Diego Urban Warriors, Far South/Border North, or RISE Arts?

Founded in 1986, San Diego Urban Warriors has created an urban performing artist community that advocates, teaches, and demonstrates collective work and responsibility by promoting health, self-determination, and discipline. Visit SDUW’s website to learn more about their programs and events, including The Mr. Black Culture Art & Talent Contest, Black Family Day, Wellness Wednesdays, and more.

Far South/Border North is a regional collaborative supporting artists and cultural practitioners in communities and the only program of its kind in San Diego and Imperial counties. Visit the FS/BN website to learn more about this two-year investment in our region’s arts and culture communities and the program’s grantees.

RISE San Diego is changing the landscape of leadership, and RISE Arts aims to help arts and culture nonprofits, artists, and cultural practitioners throughout the San Diego-Imperial Valley region to grow and thrive. Visit the RISE Arts page and join our email list to receive news about the FS/BN campaigns under development by San Diego Urban Warriors and all 17 artists, cultural practitioners, and nonprofit organizations that are part of the RISE FS/BN Social Justice Impact Hub.

The Diaspora Kitchen Forum is an intergenerational storytelling and food-sharing event, featuring a local migration archive. This event brings together nine families from diverse cultural backgrounds who will share their unique recipes, culinary traditions, and cultural adaptations since relocating to San Diego.

This collaborative project is developed in partnership with Noun Abdelaziz, a community organizer and health researcher, and Amina Sheik Mohamed, Director and founder of the UCSD Refugee Health Unit, in collaboration with San Diego-based artist MR Barnadas.

• Event date and time: Saturday, June 29, 12:30 - 2:30 pm

• Location: City Heights Plaza Del Sol—Community Room, 4061 Fairmount Ave, San Diego, CA 92105

• Cost: Free admission

MR Barnadas’ Diaspora Kitchen Forum is made possible in part by a grant from Far South/Border North

How can I find out more about MR Barnadas, Far South/Border North, or RISE Arts?

MR Barnadas (Melinda Barnadas) is an intercultural interdisciplinary visual artist dedicated to the public sphere with an emphasis on site- and audience-specific participatory engagement. These artworks have been conducted in the form of murals, signage, performances, interventions, institutional critique, public events, and other collaborative gestures. It is through collaboration with participants that nuanced perspectives are activated in the art production—ultimately to increase public discourse around representation. Learn more at collective magpie.org.

Far South/Border North is a regional collaborative supporting artists and cultural practitioners in communities and the only program of its kind in San Diego and Imperial counties. Visit the FS/BN website to learn more about this two-year investment in our region’s arts and culture communities and the program’s grantees.

RISE San Diego is changing the landscape of leadership, and RISE Arts aims to help arts and culture nonprofits, artists, and cultural practitioners throughout the San Diego-Imperial Valley region to grow and thrive. Visit the RISE Arts page and join our email list to receive news about the FS/BN campaigns under development by MR Barnadas and all 17 artists, cultural practitioners, and nonprofit organizations that are part of the RISE FS/BN Social Justice Impact Hub.

San Diego Urban Warriors will host the 32nd Annual Kuumba Fest “Black II Restoration” celebration this June with three days of positive images, healthy challenges, and rejuvenation for the mind, body, and spirit through art, culture, and edutainment.

Saturday, June 29: Day of Positive Challenges

A special day of youth and family fun challenges celebrating family and community. Free workshops in art, culture, African drum, and dance and opportunities to perform on stage in the Mr. Black San Diego Open Mic and Improv opportunity. Introducing youth to various music genres, playing American artists, island music, African, and Afro Beats music.

12:00 pm — Mr. Black Culture Art & Talent SD opening of the African Market Place and the Youth & Family Challenge Village

1:00 pm — Kuumba Kidz’ Youth Play The Principle of the Matter

2:00 pm — The Power of Dance Workshop

4:00 pm — Open Mic: The Power of Improv

5:00 pm — Interview and panel discussion: Afro Beat history and how its vibration can be used to motivate culture, art, and talent in the (9) Blocks with music and dance. With panelists Makeda Dread, Najite Agindotan, Cheryl Morrow, and more.

6:00 pm — Najite & Olokun Prophecy concert

• Event date and time: Saturday, June 29, 12:00 - 7:00 pm

• Location: Educational Cultural Complex, 4343 Ocean View Blvd, San Diego, CA 92113

• Cost: General admission is free; $5 for youth play; $10 for panel discussion

• Contact: Visit sduw.org for more information

San Diego Urban Warriors’ 32nd Annual Kuumba Fest is made possible in part by a grant from Far South/Border North

How can I find out more about San Diego Urban Warriors, Far South/Border North, or RISE Arts?

Founded in 1986, San Diego Urban Warriors has created an urban performing artist community that advocates, teaches, and demonstrates collective work and responsibility by promoting health, self-determination, and discipline. Visit SDUW’s website to learn more about their programs and events, including The Mr. Black Culture Art & Talent Contest, Black Family Day, Wellness Wednesdays, and more.

Far South/Border North is a regional collaborative supporting artists and cultural practitioners in communities and the only program of its kind in San Diego and Imperial counties. Visit the FS/BN website to learn more about this two-year investment in our region’s arts and culture communities and the program’s grantees.

RISE San Diego is changing the landscape of leadership, and RISE Arts aims to help arts and culture nonprofits, artists, and cultural practitioners throughout the San Diego-Imperial Valley region to grow and thrive. Visit the RISE Arts page and join our email list to receive news about the FS/BN campaigns under development by San Diego Urban Warriors and all 17 artists, cultural practitioners, and nonprofit organizations that are part of the RISE FS/BN Social Justice Impact Hub.

San Diego Urban Warriors will host the 32nd Annual Kuumba Fest “Black II Restoration” celebration this June with three days of positive images, healthy challenges, and rejuvenation for the mind, body, and spirit through art, culture, and edutainment.

Friday, June 28: Night of Positive Images, Parade of Ancestors, and Keynote Speaker

6pm — Doors open, featuring the African Market place, pre-show entertainment and shopping, and drum call

7pm — The Annual Night of African American and Black pride in our heritage and history, creatively honoring our ancestors, and empowering our future: pageantry of the Royal Court with the “Honors Spot Light Ceremony”; ancient African history coming to life before our eyes with the “Parade of the Ancestors” from ancient Kemet to Paul Cuffe; a best dressed Contest; and a dynamic keynote speaker on Reclaiming our Tools for Restoration.

• Event date and time: Friday, June 28; doors open at 6:00 pm, show begins at 7:00 pm

• Location: Educational Cultural Complex, 4343 Ocean View Blvd, San Diego, CA, 92113

• Cost: $20 donation

• Contact: Visit sduw.org for more information

San Diego Urban Warriors’ 32nd Annual Kuumba Fest is made possible in part by a grant from Far South/Border North

How can I find out more about San Diego Urban Warriors, Far South/Border North, or RISE Arts?

Founded in 1986, San Diego Urban Warriors has created an urban performing artist community that advocates, teaches, and demonstrates collective work and responsibility by promoting health, self-determination, and discipline. Visit SDUW’s website to learn more about their programs and events, including The Mr. Black Culture Art & Talent Contest, Black Family Day, Wellness Wednesdays, and more.

Far South/Border North is a regional collaborative supporting artists and cultural practitioners in communities and the only program of its kind in San Diego and Imperial counties. Visit the FS/BN website to learn more about this two-year investment in our region’s arts and culture communities and the program’s grantees.

RISE San Diego is changing the landscape of leadership, and RISE Arts aims to help arts and culture nonprofits, artists, and cultural practitioners throughout the San Diego-Imperial Valley region to grow and thrive. Visit the RISE Arts page and join our email list to receive news about the FS/BN campaigns under development by San Diego Urban Warriors and all 17 artists, cultural practitioners, and nonprofit organizations that are part of the RISE FS/BN Social Justice Impact Hub.

Join our partners at The Prep Institute and Black Tech Link for a workshop on Utilizing Generative AI for Business Communication.

In this workshop, instructor Elizabeth Cotton (Executive Director, Black Tech Link) will demystify generative AI, explaining its core concepts and showcasing how organizations are effectively utilizing this technology in their work.

Through practical examples, attendees will learn how generative AI can improve activities, including proposal and grant writing, social media advertising, email outreach, and more. Additionally, she’ll provide a curated list of powerful generative AI tools, equipping participants with the resources needed to implement these innovations in their own operations.

Don't miss this opportunity to learn how generative AI can transform your communication strategies and boost your organizational success.

• Time: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm

• Location: Online via Zoom

• Cost: Free to attend—please register via Google Forms

• Contact: Email Elizabeth Cotton at elizabeth@blacktechlink.org

Funding for this program is provided by the County of San Diego, HHSA, Department of Homeless Solutions and Equitable Communities.

How can I find out more about The Prep Institute, Black Tech Link, the County of San Diego HHSA, or RISE’s Nonprofit Partnerships Training?

The Prep Institute offers nonprofits and socially-conscious small businesses 3-5 years of training and coaching on how to integrate business methodologies into creating and distributing social solutions. Visit their website to learn about the support opportunities they provide to these organizations.

Founded in 2020, Black Tech Link focuses on the economic advancement of black communities through technical education, workforce solutions, and networking activities. Visit their website to learn more about their goals and services.

The County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) provides vital health, housing, and social services to more than 3.3 million residents across 18 cities, 18 federally recognized tribal reservations, 16 major naval and military installations, and the unincorporated areas of the County. Visit their website to learn more about their work and guiding principles.

Since 2015, RISE San Diego’s Nonprofit Partnerships Training program has supported small nonprofits, minority-owned businesses, and their teams throughout the county to attain sustainability and achieve growth. Visit the RISE Nonprofit Partnerships Training page for more information and join our email list to receive news about upcoming learning opportunities.

Join us for the RISE Leadership Program Graduation Ceremony, which is scheduled to take place on Wednesday, June 26th at 6 pm. This event is the culmination of the hard work, dedication, and perseverance of the Cohort 9 Fellows, who have successfully completed the rigorous and comprehensive leadership program. 

The ceremony will be an opportunity to celebrate and honor the remarkable achievements of the Fellows and learn more about their inspiring Community Action Projects. These projects are designed to drive positive change and make a real difference in the communities they serve. 

The Graduation Ceremony will feature speeches from the program leaders and distinguished guests, as well as a presentation of certificates to the Cohort 9 Fellows. It promises to be an inspiring and uplifting event, and we hope that you will join us in celebrating the achievements of these exceptional individuals.

The Link Up group art show will host work created by the participants of local artist chikle!’s Mens Group intervention on the topic of Mental Health, Vulnerability, and Redefining what it means to be a Man. The afternoon will include mental health resources from community partners, music, and food for attendees.

• Event date and time: Saturday, June 22, 1:00 - 5:00 pm

• Location: 689 Marsat Ct Ste B, Chula Vista, CA 91911

• Cost: Free admission

chikle!’s The Link Up is made possible in part by a grant from Far South/Border North

How can I find out more about chikle!, Far South/Border North, or RISE Arts?

chikle! (Enrique Lugo) is a visual artist and the proud son of Mexican Immigrants who is dedicated to Human Centered Education and CommUNITY Activism. Via a multidisciplinary approach his work has focused on Identity, Cultivating Safe Spaces, Raising Awareness, Fostering Change, and Nurturing a Sense of CommUNITY & Belonging! Learn more about chikle! at elchikle.com.

Far South/Border North is a regional collaborative supporting artists and cultural practitioners in communities and the only program of its kind in San Diego and Imperial counties. Visit the FS/BN website to learn more about this two-year investment in our region’s arts and culture communities and the program’s grantees.

RISE San Diego is changing the landscape of leadership, and RISE Arts aims to help arts and culture nonprofits, artists, and cultural practitioners throughout the San Diego-Imperial Valley region to grow and thrive. Visit the RISE Arts page and join our email list to receive news about the FS/BN campaigns under development by chikle! and all 17 artists, cultural practitioners, and nonprofit organizations that are part of the RISE FS/BN Social Justice Impact Hub.

International artist Sandra Carmona invites the community to The Backbone of Agriculture. This art exhibit will feature the work of Mujeres Poderosas, Fallbrook Lideres, Yolanda Rios, and Jose Molina, with a blessing by Calpulli Obeyocan.

• Event date and time: Saturday, June 15, 2:00 - 5:00 pm

• Location: Hill Street Country Club, 530 S Coast Hwy, Oceanside, CA 92054

• Cost: Free admission

Sandra Carmona’s The Backbone of Agriculture is made possible in part by a grant from Far South/Border North

How can I find out more about Sandra Carmona, Far South/Border North, or RISE Arts?

Sandra Carmona is of Wixárika descent, a Chicana, the daughter of farmworkers, and a muralist for more than 20 years. A longtime activist for Farmworker and Indigenous rights, she is the founder of Calpulli Omeyocan—a grassroots Indigenous dance collaborative—and volunteers as an art instructor in marginalized communities on both sides of the border. Learn more about the artist and her work at xoque-artinmotion.com.

Far South/Border North is a regional collaborative supporting artists and cultural practitioners in communities and the only program of its kind in San Diego and Imperial counties. Visit the FS/BN website to learn more about this two-year investment in our region’s arts and culture communities and the program’s grantees.

RISE San Diego is changing the landscape of leadership, and RISE Arts aims to help arts and culture nonprofits, artists, and cultural practitioners throughout the San Diego-Imperial Valley region to grow and thrive. Visit the RISE Arts page and join our email list to receive news about the FS/BN campaigns under development by Sandra Carmona and all 17 artists, cultural practitioners, and nonprofit organizations that are part of the RISE FS/BN Social Justice Impact Hub.

Join our partners at The Prep Institute and Black Tech Link for a workshop on Digital Tools to Optimize Your Business.

In this workshop, instructor Elizabeth Cotton (Executive Director, Black Tech Link) will introduce essential digital tools designed to alleviate the pressure of daily, mundane activities. She’ll provide an in-depth review of web-based platforms that can help your business run more efficiently, including:

• Asana—project management and team collaboration

• MailChimp—email marketing automation

• Google Drive—cloud storage and document sharing

• Canva—creating professional graphics and marketing materials

• Buffer—social media scheduling and management

Join us to discover how these digital tools can streamline your operations, freeing up valuable time and resources to focus on what matters most—growing your business.

• Time: 11:30 am - 1:00 pm

• Location: Online via Zoom

• Cost: Free to attend—please register via Google Forms

• Contact: Email Elizabeth Cotton at elizabeth@blacktechlink.org

Funding for this program is provided by the County of San Diego, HHSA, Department of Homeless Solutions and Equitable Communities.

How can I find out more about The Prep Institute, Black Tech Link, the County of San Diego HHSA, or RISE’s Nonprofit Partnerships Training?

The Prep Institute offers nonprofits and socially-conscious small businesses 3-5 years of training and coaching on how to integrate business methodologies into creating and distributing social solutions. Visit their website to learn about the support opportunities they provide to these organizations.

Founded in 2020, Black Tech Link focuses on the economic advancement of black communities through technical education, workforce solutions, and networking activities. Visit their website to learn more about their goals and services.

The County of San Diego Health and Human Services Agency (HHSA) provides vital health, housing, and social services to more than 3.3 million residents across 18 cities, 18 federally recognized tribal reservations, 16 major naval and military installations, and the unincorporated areas of the County. Visit their website to learn more about their work and guiding principles.

Since 2015, RISE San Diego’s Nonprofit Partnerships Training program has supported small nonprofits, minority-owned businesses, and their teams throughout the county to attain sustainability and achieve growth. Visit the RISE Nonprofit Partnerships Training page for more information and join our email list to receive news about upcoming learning opportunities.