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People Helping People

At our recent Global Harmony concert, our founder and executive director took a moment to reminisce on the journey of Keys 2 Success. She shared how individuals, much like those gathered that afternoon, have been instrumental in both her personal life and Keys' growth. It was a heartfelt reminder of the power of connections and community in our shared endeavors.

In the intricate tapestry of my life, where threads of immigration, education, and community intersect, one simple yet profound truth emerges: people help people get places. From the bustling streets of Queens, New York, to the tranquil neighborhoods of New Providence, where I reside today, this guiding principle has shaped my journey, characterized by humble beginnings and transformative connections.

As a child of Malaysian immigrants, growing up in Queens instilled in me a profound understanding of the community's power and the invaluable nature of opportunity. Mentors like Ms. Fuschi guided me through Juilliard pre-college, while the promises of privilege and prestige at MIT laid the foundation for my journey. However, even amidst a successful engineering career, a deep yearning emerged for a connection to my roots, a purpose beyond personal success.

In 2001, our move to New Providence for work triggered a profound longing within me, leading me to seek solace in Newark—a city echoing the vibrant community I left behind. Despite the suburban tranquility, I yearned for the diversity and vitality of urban life. It was during this exploration that my family and I discovered a small Brazilian church whose congregation's warmth became a guiding light. Through Wednesday night children’s services, we connected with families from Pennington Court public housing, revealing the stark disparities in opportunities for children growing up just miles apart.

In 2016, fueled by the conviction that everyone deserves equal opportunities, I embarked on a new path, stepping away from engineering to establish Keys 2 Success. With a small team of volunteers and a shared vision of empowerment, we embarked on a mission to bridge the gap in educational opportunities, one child at a time. From humble beginnings teaching in cramped classrooms to navigating the challenges of the virtual landscape during the pandemic, our journey has been marked by resilience and adaptability.

At the core of Keys 2 Success lies the belief in the power of collaboration. Our staff and volunteers tirelessly nurture the minds and hearts of hundreds of children. Meanwhile, communities like the New Providence United Methodist Church (NPUMC) provide invaluable support, fostering an environment for our vision to flourish.

In 2022, NPUMC graciously opened its doors, initially offering a meeting space for our staff. Over time, this space evolved into a vibrant hub where students from Newark and volunteers from New Providence unite to create music, share stories, and collaborate on projects like the recent Global Harmony Concert. Featuring a diverse range of talents, from pianists to saxophonists, violinists, drummers, and even Indian dancers choreographing to Bach's Gigue, this concert showcased how much our Keys community - Urban Fellows, Junior Fellows, interns, and adults - have been able to grow, not just musically, but in leadership skills and deepened friendships which cross traditional boundaries.

We stand as a united front, committed to forging a future where every child has the chance to thrive, where every voice is valued, and where the guiding principle remains: people help people get places. Together, we strive to create a world where every individual is empowered to reach their fullest potential and where the spirit of cooperation drives us toward a brighter tomorrow.

- Jee-Hoon Krska, Founder of Keys 2 Success

What Else Happened

This Past Month?

Our talented Keys students had the incredible opportunity to perform as part of the New Jersey Performing Arts Center Prelude Concert Series on Sunday, March 3, courtesy of The New Jersey Symphony! 

Spring break wasn't merely a time for relaxation for our students! They devoted themselves to practicing piano, with each student accumulating over 1000 minutes as part of our Practice-A-Thon fundraiser. Together, their efforts raised over $11,000!

Our students made their debut performance in New York City on Saturday, April 6, alongside talented students from six youth musical programs supported by the The Harlem Chamber Players.

Our journey with the Harlem Chamber Players continued on April 29, when we recorded Longing by William Grant Still, arranged for the Keyboard Ensemble and Wind Quintet. What a joyful time of music-making!

The very next day, we had the honor of performing at the Impact 100 Essex annual dinner at Seton Hall University. It was an inspiring evening meeting with a group of powerful philanthropists.

Our event series culminated on Monday, May 6, with a Masterclass led by Tabitha Johnson, a Manhattan School of Music graduate. Tabitha enchanted students and parents with her performance of Margaret Bonds' "Troubled Waters" and graciously guided our students through their solos and ensemble pieces. It was a delightful experience filled with music, laughter, and camaraderie, and we can't wait to welcome Tabitha back for another inspiring session!

My Name Is Shayo

My name is Oluwashayo, but most people know me as David. When I immigrated to the United States, I desperately wanted to blend in. To accomplish this, I introduced myself as David rather than the name that appears on my birth certificate.  

However, as time went on, I realized that my name was more than just a name. Oluwashayo means “the Lord has brought me joy”, and it ties me to God. It is a Nigerian name that runs in my family, most of whom I have not seen since immigrating. Hiding my name felt like I was hiding my faith, family, heritage, and journey. As I matured, I realized that these are things to be proud of, not ashamed of, regardless of what others might think. 

Today, I introduce myself as Oluwashayo, or Shayo for short. I am proud of my story and my identity. It is a name that I will carry with me forever, and will remind me of the things that are most important in my life. It inspires me to live my life confidently, have compassion, be authentic, and be brave. 

Shayo is an Urban Fellow with Keys 2 Success. He is currently a Junior at North Star Academy in Newark. In addition to being a very musical pianist, Shayo is a talented engineer. He is responsible for setting up our sound and recording system for concerts. He will be attending the Syracuse University Pre-College Program this summer with a full scholarship.

Introducing our Junior Fellows

This year, we launched the Junior Fellows Program in response to the enthusiastic interest of younger students eager to explore Urban Fellowship opportunities. This initiative provides a hands-on apprenticeship experience, immersing students in real-world affairs. Each Friday afternoon, they engage in extra practice sessions, gaining valuable insights into event setup, breakdown, and performance etiquette. It's all about diving into the essentials and mastering the skills necessary to excel in professional environments.

AJ Ogunderu, at just 9 years old, is the youngest and most enthusiastic Junior Fellow. She is a student at North Star Academy in Newark. Her radiant smile matches her bright mind. AJ loves reading and playing the piano, showcasing a passion for learning and creativity beyond her years.

Danyshka Aucacama is a 5th-grade student attending North Star Academy in Newark. She joined the Keys 2 Success piano program in 2020, and has enjoyed working on every piece she’s been assigned, including her latest responsibilities as a Junior Fellow.  She also loves Karate in which she’s attended several tournaments.

Emely Portillo is a 6th grader attending South Street School in Newark. She joined the Keys 2 Success piano program in kindergarten and has enjoyed all the people she’s met since. She loves the piano and hopes to pursue it eventually as a career. She is a Keys 2 Success Junior Fellow.

Javae Bond, an 8th grader at North Star Academy in Newark, embodies a unique blend of introspection and dedication.Tech-savvy and committed to her pursuits, she quietly but confidently leaves her mark on every endeavor she undertakes. She is a Keys 2 Success Junior Fellow.

Jaziah Bryant is a 6th grader who first joined the Keys 2 Success program as a Kindergartener at South Street School in 2017. She never misses a day of practice and loves to teach other students how to play the piano as a Junior Fellow. She wants to grow up to be a famous actor.  

Kalyani Winters, a 7th grader at North Star Academy, is known for her quick learning and caring nature. Under the guidance of her mentor - the OG Urban Fellow, Darasimi Ajayi - she shines as a responsible Junior Fellow with a passion for helping others.

Myla Bruen, a 4th grader at South Street School, is a Junior Fellow known for her thoughtful and observant nature. Very prepared and willing to share, she excels as a good team player, making her an invaluable asset in any collaborative endeavor.

Onya Cherisme-Vargas, a freshman at East Side High in Newark, stands as a testament to dedication and leadership. As one of the original cohort of students who initiated the Keys 2 Success program in 2016, she has emerged as a Junior Fellow, embodying the program's values of resilience and achievement.

Thaila Freitas is an 8th grader attending South Street School in Newark. She joined the Keys 2 Success piano program in 1st grade. Thaila excels in every subject in school. She is a member of her school's band, coding, science, and debate clubs. She loves serenading her family and her birds on the piano. Thaila is a Keys 2 Success Junior Fellow.

Discovering Your Impact: The Difference Your Donation Makes

Join us in our mission to serve more students by helping us cross the finish line! We've made remarkable progress, raising an impressive $234,000 towards our goal of $250,000 from individual donors. With just $16,000 left to raise by June 30th, your support is crucial. Your generosity empowers us to provide vital resources and opportunities for our students to thrive. Donate today and make a lasting impact!

Questions? Contact us today (908) 280-8969, or through our website