The Weeknd Donated Some Money to the University of Toronto

Many people feel a strong connection to their heritage and where their families came from. This is even more true for the children of immigrants. Apparently, this is also true for Abel Tesfaye, better known as the Weeknd, because according to the Toronto Star, he donated $50,000 to the University of Toronto for an Ethiopian studies program.

Both of the Weeknd’s parents emigrated from Ethiopia, so when the University of Toronto approached him for help, he responded right away. Board member of the Bikila Award organization, Tam Gebeyhu said, “It’s unbelievable. He grew up in Toronto as an Ethiopian-Canadian, and now he’s giving back to the community”.

The Bikila Award organization apparently awarded the Toronto musician two years ago with an award for professional excellence. This was before he became so well-known, and his fame just beginning, but his donation now helps to preserve and share his family’s culture.

The Weeknd hasn’t publically shared the news of his donation, but the University of Toronto is already putting the money to work. Within a year, the first course — the study of the ancient Ethiopian language — will be set to launch.