Christian and his sister Malia often share their musical talents in two very different yet meaningful events during the Christmas season. One event is hosted by well known philanthropist, W. Brett Wilson (also former and BEST DRAGON on CBC's Dragon's Den) who invites both international and local artists together in a special fundraiser concert to raise awareness and money for the Veteran's Food Bank. This charity does far more than provide just food, it helps pay mortgage payments, doctor's bills, medication and other essential help to our veterans who put their life on the line for ours.
Christian was only eight years old the very first time he was invited by Brett to play a few pieces in the concert and Christian has been fortunate to share his music in this memorable fundraiser every year since. Four years ago, Brett's vision grew to include a Christmas dinner for not only guests personally invited by him but opened the doors to welcome several moms and their children who need to spend their Christmas in safe houses because of domestic violence. Brett spares no expense to hire additional security to ensure that for at least this one incredible night, these precious families can enjoy the food and music without worrying about their safety. Artists such as the Canadian Tenors (now called "The Tenors", Oscar Lopez,James Keelaghan Beverly Mahood, Brett Kissel, The Stellas, Don Amero, Sophie Serafino and many others have been involved in making Brett's annual Christmas event one to always remember!
It without doubt is one of my families most cherished evenings of not only the Christmas season but of the entire year!
As a mom, you always pray that there will be individuals that will help will play a role in your child's life, recognizing and nurturing their gifts and being another voice besides yours that they will learn from. Brett has been not only a role model and patron of Christian's talent but is someone that has shown Christian how being generous to others is a privilege and to always continue to pay it forward.
Malia, Christian's little and most talented sister was only five when Brett came into Christian's life but he made a point of always making her feel special when the spotlight was focused on Christian. Brett would pick her up and twirl her around, carry her up on stage and make her feel welcome at all of his events. As Malia's talents in music and dance continued to become more apparent, she was also now one of Brett's featured performers at age only eight. Malia learned 12 Christmas duets this past month to showcase with her brother during the Christmas dinner for Brett's guests and she put everything inside her heart into those carols.
As a mom, you can't choose the people that will influence your child's lives so I know that it is a true blessing that Brett just happens to be one of Christian and Malia's most special friends!
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