Focus Area
Youth Empowerment
Location
San Francisco, California
Beneficiaries
Bay Area youth and teen musicians, including underserved students and aspiring performers
Safavi's Role
Directly managed initiative and ongoing partner funding
Key Impact
200+ youth supported with scholarships, instruments, and live performance opportunities; over 50 virtual and in-person shows co-produced; morale boosted during pandemic-era isolation
Project Overview
The San Francisco Rock Project initiative, supported by the Safavi Philanthropic Initiative, focuses on empowering youth through collaborative music education and performance. Amidst pandemic restrictions, Safavi sponsored a socially distanced virtual concert series, helping students perform, connect, and heal through music. This initiative continues today through direct support of scholarships, programming, and public events.
Beneficiary Profile
The beneficiaries are Bay Area youth aged 7–18, many from diverse and underserved backgrounds. These students receive access to private lessons, group rehearsals, songwriting mentorship, and public stage experiences, regardless of prior experience or financial situation. The initiative serves aspiring musicians who may not otherwise have access to quality music education or performance opportunities.
Safavi's Role
The Safavi Philanthropic Initiative played a dual role:
Direct Sponsorship: Funded and co-produced a virtual concert series curated by board member Olivia Safavi.
Ongoing Partnership: Provides ongoing financial support to sustain programs, student scholarships, and events that elevate youth voices through music. Resources include funding, promotional strategy, and creative co-direction with SFRP’s leadership team.
Project Gallery
Photo Credit: San Francisco Rock Project
Impact Achieved
Over 200 students supported through lessons, mentorship, and stage opportunities.
More than 50 live performances, both virtual and in-person, during and post-pandemic, bringing music to thousands of community members.
Direct morale uplift and creative outlet for youth during times of social isolation.
Expanded visibility and reach for SFRP, with new camps and performance series fueled by sustained support
Purpose & Signifigance
This initiative represents Safavi’s deep belief in the power of creative confidence and youth voice. Music is a healing and empowering force—and by investing in this program, Safavi amplifies access, inclusion, and expression for the next generation of artists and leaders. The program aligns with Safavi’s strategic focus on youth empowerment and long-term community development.
Future Outlook
Safavi continues to support SFRP’s evolving programs, including their “Bands of the Bay” competition, songwriting intensives, and mentorship residencies. Plans are underway for additional co-produced showcases and the potential expansion of virtual programs to reach more youth across California and beyond.
