My name is Gabriel Rossitter. I am an 18-year-old musician, entrepreneur, and student trustee in grade 12 at Owen Sound District Secondary School. I grew up and live near Georgian Bay, in Kemble, on a farm that belonged to my great-great-grandparents. I am thrilled to have been accepted to Ryerson University’s (Now Metropolitan Toronto University) Media Production program this fall. Since the age of ten, I have been involved in music and theatre, from live local theatre productions, including playing Jem in the Roxy Theatre production of To Kill a Mockingbird, and Horton in Seussical the Musical, to acting in the TVO historical documentary film The Bruce.

I started playing piano at the age of four and competed in the Kiwanis Music Festival for many years. Two years ago I discovered my passion for guitar, and I never stray too far from my Martin Acoustic or Fender Strat. I am passionate about songwriting and composing. One of my local teachers and mentors is Roger Williamson, who together with his father Lloyd, have a long musical history throughout the Grey Bruce area. My mother has also been a huge musical influence on me as she was part of the local duo Beckon, whose album Beautiful Life was produced by legendary Canadian music producer Rick Hutt. There’s never a time without music at our house!

In addition to my music, I also started a social enterprise online apparel company, Belong, that focuses on supporting youth mental health. As such, I have been featured in Toronto’s NewsTalk 1010, Podcast Life as a.., Mix 106.5, and articles in Rampt Magazine, The Sun Times, and West of the Bay. I currently serve on Student Council as a Senator, and as Student Trustee for the Bluewater District School Board. In the future, I see myself working in a media business related career, or in broadcasting as an on-air host, and of course – as a musician.