History

for more than 15 years . . .

Projectivity is a grassroots organization that has collaborated to provide resources to musicians and artists that have had similar audiences and messages - mainly creating positive, motivating content. The word “Projectivity” was given the meaning of coming together to project our passions. The concept has always been to help others spread positive messages through the arts, and also develop sustainable careers by supporting each other in the arts. What began as a small DIY record label in 2005, slowly evolved into a full-scale arts COLLECTIVE – eventually taking the shape of an officially registered 501c(3) not-for-profit organization in the Fall of 2015.

Headquartered in Staten Island, the group currently serves the whole New York City tri-state area but has hosted workshops and events throughout the country.

In 2020, Projectivity began collaborating with Thrive Collective and in 2021 they formed an official partnership to grow capacity across the tristate area. In 2023 Projectivity/Thrive Collective expanded its initiatives to the DMV/Baltimore.

OUR MISSION

To provide education, resources, and opportunities to anyone interested in pursuing media and the arts.

Board of Directors

**Jared Jax, EdD**. is a teacher and CTE Coordinator at Staten Island Technical HS. He received his doctorate in Instructional Technology and Media from Columbia University.

**Tariq Zaid** is a life long New Yorker, small business owner of both Richmond Hood Co. and Vodega Deli & Grocery, and a firm believer in empowering people of all ages through art.

**Arianna Apparicio** an accountant with over 10 years of experience, founded SIA Services Inc. in 2018. Since then, the company has managed the financials of numerous private and public clients, from startups to multi-million dollar businesses.

**David Nudelman** is founder of Stereotype Co and TYPE88. He brings over 17 years of design and business experience. He leads initiatives that empower people to launch their own brands while supporting over 1,000 creatives worldwide.

**Vernon “Dyverse” Wooten** is a Education Resource Specialist MST JJI at the Jewish Board SI Family Services, Program Director of Fatherhood Matters, and Parent Advocate at the SI ACS. He is also the founder of the Fatherhood Coalition

**Evan Brockett**, a native Staten Islander, is a professional photographer. His art introduced him to Yoga which he has been practicing and teaching for the last 10 years. He is currently an Emergency Nurse and has experience as a paraprofessional for the NYCDOE.

**Giancarlo Alejo** is a passionate father of 3. His background ranges from audio-engineering to fashion/style to photography. He has worked with various companies and celebrities, assisting with marketing and branding

Staff

Christian Penn, Executive Director / Founder, is a musician, audio engineer, DJ and street artist. After starting and running a successful recording studio and music company, he founded Projectivity to share his passions and resources with the youth… — **Christian Penn**, Executive Director / Founder, is a musician, audio engineer, DJ and street artist. After starting and running a successful recording studio and music company, he founded Projectivity to share his passions and resources with the youth and other artists.

**Jodi Dareal**, Program Director, is a powerhouse! She is a muralist, song-writer, and a comic book illustrator. She uses a wide variety of mediums in her work such as oil paint, acrylic, water color, and digital art.

**Dominque Coar,** Program Director, is a meticulous program director who believes in the power of intricacy. She began working with Projectivity in 2019 and always kept the love for the arts in her heart. She is also, a professional streamer, writer and actress.

**Pelumi Ayeni,** Staff Program is a Freelance artist, muralist, and instructor from Lagos, Nigeria, now based in Jersey City, NJ. She earned a BFA from Roger Williams University and an MFA in Painting from Hunter College.

Additionally, Projectivity has a full roster of professional teaching artists including DJs, producers and audio engineers, photographers and videographers, graphic designers, street artists, muralists and more. Our instructors focus on career development, leadership skills, and confidence building.