Music Without Borders is a student-run campaign that draws on the power of the arts to fundraise for Médecins Sans Frontières / Doctors Without Borders (MSF), which has been at the forefront of providing humanitarian medical aid around the world.
Between 2014 and 2019, Music Without Borders has raised $56,600 for MSF and engaged hundreds of youth in its activities. See here for highlights of our 2017 gala concert.
Besides being a fundraising campaign, Music Without Borders also provides a platform for youth to explore through the arts what it means to be a humanitarian,
why it is important, and how to do so in our everyday life.
We also explore these ideas with those who have done humanitarian work in the field. In his keynote address
at the Music Without Borders 2016 Concert, Dr. James Orbinski, who accepted the Nobel Peace Prize for MSF
in 1999, highlighted the common sense of unity between music and humanitarianism. As he explained, each is an expression of commitment towards excellence, beauty, love and a world without borders.
Since 2014, Music Without Borders has drawn on
a broadening network of diverse and motivated volunteers, each contributing their unique talents and backgrounds in the spirit of service (see our Past Campaigns pages). The project goes beyond borders—from artistic genres or disciplines, to schools, countries or cultures. Our network of musicians, designers, programmers, filmmakers, writers, friends and mentors spans many different communities around the world. Ultimately, we show that youth can move the world through service.
Want to hold a Music Without Borders fundraising event in your school or local community? Contact us and we can help you get started! You can also visit MSF’s fundraising page for some great ideas.
We are calling on young musicians around the world to submit musical recordings to be featured in a series of MWB podcasts. As well, we are calling on youth writers, artists, filmmakers, programmers, and composers to submit original work on the following themes to be featured on our online platform: humanitarianism, the power of the arts, one world, service, and youth action. Click here for details.
