The Leeds community studio set up in memory of teen who had passion for music

Donovan’s brother Tre says: “Donovan was apparently always messing around and having fun. He slipped at work and knocked his leg against some shelving, but in his true style simply brushed it off and rejected any suggestions to see the doctor.

“But my parents gradually realised something was wrong and weren’t happy. The pain got worse, and he started having difficulty in walking.”

Eventually, a medical examination and various tests revealed the devastating truth. In 2005, Donovan was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer, Osteosarcoma, and found to have a seven-inch tumour in his left leg.

Doctors removed this at Birmingham Children’s Hospital, but the following year he developed a secondary lung cancer and had to have 48 small tumours removed.

Tre says: “True to his amazing character and resilience, Donovan was determined not to let his illness change his life. He continued with his trade of becoming a joiner whilst attending college and received many certificates for his work. He also continued with his driving lessons.

“Donovan also spent as much time as possible with his siblings and family. He’d help others with general things and spoke openly about his illness as nothing seemed to worry him.

"He attended many seminars in Leeds and London talking to other children and their families letting them know to always keep fighting until the end, and never have any regrets in life.”

Sadly, Donovan passed away in 2006. But his memory is now carrying on through a state-of-the-art music centre in Meanwood, Leeds, which is the inspiration of his siblings Tre, 19, and Tye, 17, who were only very young when they lost their beloved big brother but are now teenagers and, like Donovan, realise the passion and power of music.

The family, along with music producers Beckred and Dean Banks, started planning the new venue – Unity Through Music – late last year.

But it has now just been registered as a Community Interest Company (CIC) - a type of company designed for social enterprises that want to use their profits and assets for the public good. As a business, a CIC reinvests its surpluses to achieve its social objectives.

Tye explains: “Unity Through Music is dedicated to serving the community of Leeds and beyond. Our goal is to provide young adults with the resources and support they need to pursue their passions in the music and arts industry – particularly those who may not have the means to do so on their own.

“In addition to music recording, photography, and video production, we also offer podcast recording services, making us a ‘one-stop shop’ for all creative needs.”

He adds: “We realise that many young adults in our society face limited opportunities and may be at risk of involvement in criminal activity.

"We aim to create a safe and inclusive space that promotes unity and encourages young people to channel their energy and talents into positive pursuits.

“We’re committed to providing equal opportunities for all clients regardless of age, race, gender, or disability. Our studio is a place where individuals can express themselves freely and pursue their passions in music and podcasting.

“As a project, we aim to be a transitional pathway for young adults into the music industry, providing them with the necessary skills, equipment, contacts, and confidence to become professional artists.”

The studio also offers an extensive workshop space which the brothers are making available to the local community.

Tre says: “Our workshop space provides a supportive and empowering environment for individuals and groups to collaborate, learn, and grow.

"The facilities are designed to promote a sense of belonging and community – fostering meaningful connections and positive change. The space is also ideal for hosting educational workshops and support groups, providing a supportive and empowering environment for learning and development.

"For anyone seeking to give back to the community, we offer volunteering opportunities that promote a sense of self-worth and can provide valuable employment experience.”

So, what does the future hold for Unity Through Music? Tre says: “The formation of the CIC is an extremely exciting step forward which will be a major platform for our growth plans.

“We’re now in a legal position to be able to apply for sponsorship, grants, and other sources on funding. This will make an enormous difference to our financial position and help us expand the range of facilities we can offer to young people.

“Donovan was a much-loved child and had a passion for music hence why we’ve set up Unity Through Music in his honour. He was, and will always be, a true inspiration to others and his life and legacy will live on.”​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

The Unity Through Music studio is based at Jackson Road, Leeds and its opening hours are Monday to Saturday 10am to 10pm (last entry 8pm); and Sundays 12pm to 8pm (last entry 6pm).

Visit https://utmstudio.com/ for more details.