RunSong Generation was founded from lived experience, resilience, and the transformative power of the arts. Our work is found by Gabrielle Solange — a Bermudian-American Billboard charting music artist, keynote speaker, and podcast host born in Ohio. Known for her electrifying, genre-fluid performances and vulnerable storytelling, Gabrielle connects with diverse audiences across the U.S. and abroad. But her journey did not begin on a stage.
A former runaway raised in the foster care system, Gabrielle credits her faith and the inner-city youth arts programs of Columbus with providing the tools, mentorship, and opportunities that helped her recognize her self-worth and purpose. Those programs were more than extracurricular activities — they were lifelines. RunSong Generation exists to be that lifeline for the next generation
Executive Director and Founder
Gabrielle Solange
Gabrielle Solange is a multi-disciplinary artist, educator, and nonprofit founder committed to empowering youth through creative expression and academic support. As the founder of RunSong Generation, she designs, leads, and oversees programs that provide both creative outlets and academic
reinforcement— utilizing the arts as a tool for healing, self-discovery, and growth, and actively bridging learning gaps
for underserved youth by strengthening literacy, communication,
and foundational math skills and building confidence.
As a former foster youth, Gabrielle’s mission is deeply personal. She credits community arts programs with changing the trajectory of her life—giving her a voice, identity, and
direction—and is committed to creating those same transformative opportunities for the next generation. For over a decade, Gabrielle has led workshops across Columbus, Ohio, and internationally, partnering with
organizations including the Columbus Urban League, YWCA, Nationwide Children’s Hospital, ROX (Ruling Our eXperiences), local schools, ministries, libraries, and community centers.
Her work has been recognized by the City of Columbus, where
she was awarded the Key to the City for her contributions to youth arts and community engagement.
Program Director
Patricia Gulzar
Patricia Gulzar is a Program Director, author, and community leader dedicated to empowering youth through literacy, creativity, and holistic development. As the Program Director of RunSong Generation, she leads the design and implementation of innovative after-school programming that integrates reading and STEM-based learning for underserved students in the Columbus community.
She has served as a youth pastor assistant, mentoring and supporting young people in their personal and spiritual development. She has also worked with trafficked and at-risk teenagers in Ohio through her involvement with Gracehaven, where she supported vulnerable youth in navigating trauma, building resilience, and accessing supportive resources.
With a deep passion for closing literacy gaps, Patricia creates structured yet engaging learning environments that help students build foundational reading skills, confidence, and self-expression. Her work emphasizes both academic growth and emotional well-being, using storytelling and the arts as tools for healing and empowerment.
In addition to her leadership in youth programming, Patricia is the author of Where the Stars Hide, reflecting her commitment to storytelling as a powerful force for transformation. She brings a compassionate, trauma-informed, and community-centered approach to her work, ensuring every child feels seen, supported, and capable of success.