Uxbridge Youth Centre creating music program

Lisha Van Nieuwenhove

The Uxbridge Youth Centre (UYC) announced Tuesday it’s building a Youth Music Program that will include featuring Open Mic nights for aspiring musicians, as well as stocking instruments for use by UYC visitors.

The program will be led by Sabina Goranova, a cirector on the UYC board. Goranova has over 20 years of international experience spanning education, music management, community engagement, and event coordination across the UK, UAE, and Canada. She says she has built the program around a simple belief: “music brings people together, builds confidence, and creates a sense of belonging.”

A main feature of the program will be the monthly Open Mic Night series, which is now two editions in. Local musicians Matt Gunn and Derek Virgo volunteered to train youth in sound and lighting, while young UYC members ran the show behind the scenes, acting as MCs, greeting guests, staffing concessions, and managing social media. Local businesses ManiTea and Blue Heron Books donated raffle prizes, with proceeds supporting UYC's operating funds.

The next Open Mic Night takes place Friday, Oct. 30. Youth interested in performing or volunteering are encouraged to register in advance at uxbridgeyouthcentre.com. Open Mic is not just for music: poetry / spoken word, stand-up, skits, games, etc., are welcome additions.

UYC recently added a music corner stocked with instruments for band and individual practice. This is meant to be safe space where young people can explore music however it speaks to them, whether performing, writing, producing, or simply being part of a community built around it.

“My vision extends well beyond the open mic format. I would like to see Uxbridge Youth Centre grow into a true hub of creativity and collaboration,” says Goranova.