FusionFest Inc, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization and a project of the Orange County Arts & Cultural Affairs office, announced today Thali Sugisawa’s decision to exit her current role as Executive Director. A leadership transition plan is in place, planned for conclusion within twelve weeks.

“FusionFest has grown to be such a defining part of Central Florida’s landscape, showing the world that people of different cultures and lifestyles can come together not only to showcase their traditions and talents, but to cheer one another and to bring innovation through collaboration to our region”, says Sugisawa who continues, “I am honored to have led an all-star team of volunteers, curators, managers, and directors, and to have brought on board incredibly creative leaders such as CeCe Teneal, Maria Mancia and Leo Aether. After six years, my personal and professional contribution to FusionFest feels complete.”

Sugisawa, who began as a volunteer in 2016 and co-founded the project and the organization, recently produced FusionFest’s 5th Annual multicultural festival bringing an estimated 20,000 people to Seneff Arts Plaza at the Dr. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts – on Thanksgiving weekend. The organization, whose mission is “to celebrate the people and the many different cultures that make Central Florida awesome”, provides year-round programming centered around building a community based on respect and understanding. FusionFest programs include a bi-weekly talk show called Diverse Orange, the monthly Diversitastic! Dining Experience, the annual MYgration Films Contest, the Culinary Arts Contest, and the free two-day multicultural festival.

“Thali has been indispensable to the quality and growth of FusionFest’s year-round activities. As a project of Orange County Arts & Cultural Affairs, I am extremely grateful for Thali’s leadership, says Terry Olson, Director of Orange County Office of Arts & Cultural Affairs.

Board Chair Teuruhei Buchin Cruz is looking forward to a smooth transition and adds:

“Thali was a vital part in building an organization of purpose and good intent. We are grateful for her work and genuine spirit that has paved our path forward and are fortunate to have her guidance during this transition. She and her family are an integral part of the Central Florida arts community.”

About FusionFest

FusionFest Inc. is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization with the mission to celebrate the people and the many different cultures that make Central Florida awesome by showcasing talents, sharing stories, driving innovation, and building community based on respect and understanding. FusionFest is a project of the Orange County Office of Arts & Cultural Affairs. www.fusionfest.org.

Photo Credit: FusionFest

Date Posted: February 1, 2023