Neil 'Logik' Donaldson

Neil ‘Logik’ Donaldson is a nationally recognized cultural educator, digital media creator, and visionary leader committed to restoring cultural integrity and activating practical change through education, art, and emotional intelligence.

Based in Toronto, Neil is the founder and executive director of Stolen From Africa / Volé D’Afrique, a nationally incorporated non-profit organization with deep roots in youth empowerment, arts education, and school board partnerships. What began in 2004 as a bold t-shirt campaign to spark conversations around social justice has grown into a multi-platform movement blending storytelling, hip-hop culture, and African Canadian history.

A board-approved education partner with both the Toronto District School Board (TDSB) and Toronto Catholic District School Board (TCDSB), Neil has designed and delivered transformative programs that reach thousands of students, educators, and parents annually. His signature initiatives—The Response Ability Program, Authoritative Mindfulness, and Mindful Parenting—are rooted in emotional wellbeing, restorative education, and community-centred learning. These programs have become foundational to schools seeking culturally responsive, trauma-informed, and socially conscious engagement.

Neil’s work is guided by the African philosophies of Ubuntu ("I am because we are") and Sankofa ("go back and get it"). Whether leading student assemblies, staff workshops, or community panels, he challenges audiences to confront systems of erasure and to reclaim personal and collective narratives. His speaking style combines vulnerability, ancestral wisdom, personal storytelling, and poetic insight—cultivating spaces for reflection, growth, and transformation.

A first-generation Canadian of Jamaican descent, Neil's lived experience as a father, artist, and activist infuses his work with authenticity. He has interviewed iconic artists like Drake, Kendrick Lamar, Method Man, Maestro Fresh Wes, Jah9, Dead Prez, and Pusha T, and has shared keynote stages with grassroots organizers, school leaders, and policy influencers. In 2024, he was the keynote speaker for the Black Brilliance Conference (TDSB) and Durham Children’s Aid Society’s Black History Month event.

Neil is also the creative force behind Reason with Logik, a YouTube and TikTok platform exploring identity, masculinity, healing, and history through the lens of practical wisdom. His recent series “While You Were Sleeping” and “Pattern Recognition” have expanded his reach globally, particularly among youth in Namibia, South Africa, and across the African diaspora.

Whether designing culturally grounded curriculum, producing educational media, or hosting a community events, Neil Donaldson remains devoted to one mission: bringing the community into the classroom—and the classroom into the world.

His involvement with various initiatives, including Stolen From Africa Media and Reason with Logik, showcases his multifaceted skills in cinematography, documentation, and content creation.
Donaldson's commitment to youth development is further evidenced by his work with the Toronto District School Board and the Centre of Excellence for Black Students.

His educational background from the University of Toronto and certifications in areas like Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training and De-escalating Potentially Violent Situations underscore his comprehensive approach to community and youth development.

keynote speaker Neil ‘Logik’ Donaldson—founder of Stolen From Africa—as he delivers a powerful, heartfelt address to the frontline staff of Durham Region Children’s Aid. Celebrating 20 years of cultural activism and youth engagement, Neil shares personal stories, poetry, and history often erased from Canadian textbooks.This keynote dives deep into identity, legacy, education, systemic oppression, music, and healing. A must-watch for educators, social workers, youth advocates, and anyone working to create equity in care systems.

Thank you Logik for moving forward with us on reviewing the current draft of the Youth Justice Resource Tool. Your professional expertise and insights are highly valued to forwarding our work
Jacquline Dyer: Delta Family Resource Centre Youth Justice Program

Hey Neil, you really left an amazing impression on me and I don't go to Humewood House anymore but I would love to work with you and have you as a mentor. Please let me know, never give up on what you are doing you are honestly changing peoples lives everyday
Humewood House Student: Reason With Logik Parenting Program participant

I can't thank you enough for what you have done for these Teacher Candidates. We are all so grateful and know you have sewed some long-lasting relationships between these students for when they become practitioners
Sultan Rana, M.Ed.: Course Director, Practicum Facilitator Faculty of Education York University

Neil and his team are a wealth of knowledge they all encompass high emotional intelligence and a gravitational energy that promotes compassion, inclusivity, and equity. They have a calming and authentic disposition that help students to feel comfortable sharing, connecting and divulging personal information. Neil and his team tailor each session based on the needs of the students and facilitate conversations that stem from topics of student interest.
Christina Racanelli: Teacher Monsignor Fraser College -Annex Campus

When we met almost 15 years ago, I knew then that Neil's love of life, passion for history and ability to communicate through words and photographs would be an asset I could rely on as a funder who was seeking to engage youth. Over the years, I have learned so much from how Neil works -- with love, grace, and focus. Neil is a do-er.
Marie Moliner: Retired Director General, Government of Canada

Logik creates authentic spaces where young people experience the power of their voice. He takes time to hear them, while helping them to courageously navigate difficult conversations. Youth know that he cares deeply, and as such he is widely respected and treasured.
Johnathan Boxill: Psychotherapist and Hypnotist

Neil Donaldson facilitates therapeutic programming utilizing the three pillars of care: Anti-oppressive, trauma informed, and youth centred approach. Neil has facilitated direct therapeutic programing in an authentic manner by engaging youth in discussions; centering their voices, personal experiences and life narrations, while providing youth engagement, and leadership opportunities. Neil’s positive outlook, lived-experiences, and therapeutic approach is an asset when facilitating programs and activities.
Massy Centre: Abigail - School Counsellor, School Coordinator |

You seen something in me when I never knew I could do anything, I feel like when I was about to give up you came and showed me there is power in my story and I'm stronger than my struggles
Najma: Student participant

In all my dealings with Neil, I have found him to be a keen listener, open minded/nonjudgmental and truly authentic. With compassion for others and passion for his work, Neil facilitates with kindness, dignity and positivity. Anyone who works with Neil is bound to have a fabulous and enriching experience!
Barbara Lloyd: Integrative Physiotherapist and Certified Health Coach

I can't say enough about Neil. He is a community leader, a multifaceted artist, a producer and a counsellor that has helped and inspired countless marginalized youth around the world. His vision, his work ethic and his ability to connect with and understand cultures of all kinds has had a profound impact on me and I have no doubt that I would be a completely different person and entrepreneur had I never met him.
Ajani Charles Photography: Photographer, Director, Producer, Mental Health Advocate, Canon Canada Ambassador |

Thank you for all your support to Leacock students and the community. It has been amazing working with and learning from you over the past several years.
Rosalie Fine: Vice-Principal Runnymede C.I

I’ve got my glow on. I just enjoyed the most wonderful conversation with a new friend. I absolutely love it when two souls come together in such beautiful alignment! Neil, thank you so much for all the inspiration and the “juicy” spiritual discussion.
Barb Takeda: Author, Reiki Master healer/teacher & spiritual mentor

Logik, your contribution, knowledge, and stories impacted those who attended "Is History Repeating Itself?” webinar series. The response from the audience was overwhelmingly positive, we could not have made this happen without you. Thank you again.
Paida Ogunbiyi: Community Engagement Worker - North York community House |

Neil has an innate ability to connect with people at a personal and energetic level. This allows him to be an excellent facilitator, as he has a depth of understanding that is superior.
Janice Freethy MNLP, MTLT, TCht

I don't know if you remember me but last year you were at my school Monsignor Fraser and you gave me advice about my biological father, I just want to say I appreciate you for the advice and just giving that support, I'm now focused on myself and I'm now working for TCHC as a senior program leader going to George Brown. Thank you for the help and keep doing what you are doing for others and communities
Student: Stolen From Africa program participant

Neil, Thank you so much for taking the time to speak at our parent council meeting this evening and sharing with us the work you are doing with our students and staff. Looking forward to the ongoing collaboration.
Ms. Sandra Mudryj: Principal- St Basil The Great College School

I first want to say yesterday I was in the presents of all greatness and the support was amazing and comforting at the same time. Black History Month at Bendale B.T.I. was outstanding and I couldn't have done it with out you! The students had a fantastic time and memorable experience.
Teisha Mullings: Child and Youth Worker - Toronto District School Board