CAPE Universal Youth and Community Impact

The 2026 Multicultural Youth Arts Festival brought together students, families, artists, educators, entrepreneurs, and community leaders for a vibrant celebration of culture, creativity, and youth expression.

• 300 students performed
• 3,000 guests attended
• 500 guests visited the Cornell Art Museum during the festival
• 20 youth entrepreneurs participated
• 24 schools submitted art
• 260 pieces of student artwork were displayed at the museum for 3 months

For many students and families, the festival created opportunities to be recognized, celebrated, and connected to the broader community in meaningful ways.

Through the Frione Scholarship partnership with Everglades University, CAPE Universal has helped support students in pursuing higher education opportunities and building brighter futures.

Students such as Ferrari Bernadotte and Thompson Auguste have successfully graduated through this scholarship opportunity, reflecting the power of mentorship, access, and community support.

Each year, several other students continue attending and enrolling through the program, creating ongoing pathways toward educational achievement, leadership, and long-term success. Two additional students are currently on track to graduate in 2027 through the scholarship program.

Through drumming, dance, visual arts, photography, and live performances, CAPE Universal gives youth opportunities to creatively express themselves while building confidence, teamwork, discipline, and cultural pride.

For some students, performing at the Multicultural Youth Arts Festival is their first experience sharing their gifts on a public stage in front of a large audience.

CAPE Universal encourages youth leadership and entrepreneurship by giving young people opportunities to present ideas, develop communication skills, and explore what it means to build something of their own.

The Youth Entrepreneurship experience at the 2026 festival gave participants hands-on exposure to leadership, creativity, and business development in a supportive environment.

CAPE Universal’s work is made possible through partnerships with schools, universities, nonprofits, artists, educators, community organizations, and local leaders.

By bringing together education, arts, mentorship, and culture, CAPE Universal creates experiences that strengthen both youth and the broader community.