Shane Erickson, known on stage as DJ Seith or “the funkiest DJ in Northern Ontario”, is redefining what it means to support the local arts community.
As a DJ, he has been taking his audiences on musical journeys for almost two decades, specializing in hip-hop, funk, soul, rock and disco.
He is also known for combining his passion for music and bringing the community together. His dedication is evident in the work he has put into helping create the Soo York City Urban Arts Collective. This project has allowed a space for many young artists to express themselves, communicate with one another and even collaborate to help grow the music and arts sector in our community.
“It’s a great honour. I really appreciate being recognized,” Erickson said when he was given the news about his Community Builders Award win in the Arts category.
“I’ve been interested in hip-hop music and the culture around it for as long as I can remember and that passion just continues,” he shared.
On top of the Soo York City Urban Arts Collective, Erickson has also been involved in Go Skate Day, Rotaryfest, Poutine Feast, as well as leading local breakdancing sessions at the Downtown Plaza.
“The break sessions were a personal effort that I put forward to meet a need that I saw in the community,” he said. “I'd been DJing alongside many talented artists and performers over the years and whenever we'd do a function, people would come out and break at the shows. After the show would finish, we'd get in conversation about how badly we needed a spot for people to practice breaking somewhere.”
When the Downtown Plaza opened up, Erickson saw it as an opportunity for a new spot for breaking and started to build a community around it.
“I'm currently working with a steering committee to get the break sessions set up with a year-round home that is indoors and as accessible as possible,” he shared.
“With the recent Olympics welcoming breaking into the official games in Paris this year and with Canada's Phil Wizard taking the gold for the b-boys, there is a big renewal in interest in the art form. We’re working to provide space to grow and foster new talent in the city.”
Erickson’s hard work and dedication throughout the years have not gone unnoticed by others.
“One of the most special things about Shane is that he would never consider himself an activist or a changemaker,” said Valerie Burns, a senior administrative assistant for Kohler Canada and one of Erickson's supporters. “He is a humble person who is constantly learning. He is a passionate advocate and a sweet soul who would drop everything to help out a friend or stranger in need. His kindness and selflessness are an example for us all.”
“I’m very appreciative to be recognized and very thankful that I was nominated,” Erickson emphasized.
His efforts remind us that the arts are not just about personal achievement but also about lifting each other up to create a thriving, supportive community.
The Arts award goes to an individual or group that has helped make the artistic community stronger. They have championed an individual, an event, an idea, an ethic, or philosophy.
Congratulations, Shane!
This award is proudly sponsored by Algoma Office Equipment.