Funky and Fresh: Funkraiser Brings Notable Creatives to Grand Rapids to Support Youth
Ryan Stephens, Producer and Post Production Supervisor, with work for Apple TV and Netflix
The Mosaic Film Experience (MFE) will host its second annual Funkraiser on November 8 at The Venue at The Candied Yam, 932 Division Ave S in Grand Rapids. This purple-themed night of dancing, food, and philanthropy will support MFE’s mission to empower underrepresented youth through digital media and career exploration.
“The Funkraiser is not your traditional fundraiser. It’s an electric, high-energy night filled with great music, vibrant style, and a funky atmosphere—all with the purpose of empowering young creatives to tell their stories. It’s a celebration of community, creativity, and the power of career possibilities for the next generation,” said Skot Welch, Founder and President of the Mosaic Film Experience.
In addition to an open bar, soul food-inspired cuisine, purple-themed snacks, and a signature cocktail, the Funkraiser will feature music from New York-based DJ Soul Sugar Joint. Guests will have the chance to network with local professionals, community leaders, and special guests, including notable West Michigan natives:
Peter Chhum, Senior Manager of Social Media Strategy at MasterClass (Los Angeles)
Kirie Quackenbush, Cinematic Artist for The Sims, Electronic Arts (Indianapolis)
Ryan Stephens, Producer and Post Production Supervisor, with work for Apple TV and Netflix (Los Angeles)
Also attending is Phillip Boutte Jr., Los Angeles-based Co-Founder, Concept Artist, and Creative Director at 9B Collective, who serves on the Mosaic Film Experience’s Board of Directors. Boutte has contributed to blockbuster films such as Black Panther, Captain Marvel, Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2, A Wrinkle in Time, and The Greatest Showman, where his imaginative costume concepts helped shape the visual worlds of these iconic films.
Special guests will join the Funkraiser after speaking at the 13th annual Mosaic Event, a career exploration experience on Nov. 7, where they’ll share their career journeys with local students at Celebration Cinema North.
All proceeds from the event will support Mosaic Film Experience’s programs, including Career Pathways in-school classes, the annual Mosaic Event, and the Mosaic Mobile film competition. These initiatives provide students with hands-on experience, developing essential skills in critical thinking, collaboration, and creativity.
Mosaic is offering a buy-one-get-one ticket promotion, with tickets available online until the day of the event. Registered ticket holders should email development@mosaicfilmexperience.com to register their guest. For more information or to purchase tickets, visit mosaicfilmexperience.com/funkraiser.
