Michael Nicholson is the founder and driving force behind Light’EmUp.TV, a Vancouver Island–based automotive media brand and event platform that has rapidly grown into one of the most recognized names in the local car community. Since launching the brand in January 2021, Michael has combined his passion for cars, photography, videography, and community building to create a platform that showcases and unites automotive enthusiasts of all ages and backgrounds.
 

Starting from humble beginnings in 2021 attending and documenting local car meets and the final seasons of Western Speedway, Michael quickly gained traction through his outgoing personality, consistent content creation, and ability to connect with people. What began as filming and photographing local meets soon evolved into organizing large-scale events including the Westhills YMCA with over 350 vehicles, where it made news headlines. The car meets continued to grow, the events continued to surpass the last and these events would start to redefine the size and reach of car culture across Vancouver Island.
 

Through Light’EmUp.TV, Michael has successfully hosted and co-hosted some of the largest automotive gatherings the Island has seen. His events regularly attract 500–700+ vehicles and thousands of spectators, drawing participants not only from across Vancouver Island but also from the Lower Mainland and Washington State. These events are known for their diversity—featuring everything from early 1900s classics and hot rods to modern muscle, imports, lowriders, and high-end supercars—creating an inclusive environment that bridges generations of enthusiasts.
 

One of Michael’s journeys came through his collaboration with the LayedOut Car Club, helping build the Field of Dreams Car Show into one of the Island’s premier automotive events. Year after year, the show has grown significantly, surpassing 700 registered vehicles and gaining widespread attention from the community, local media, and automotive enthusiasts across the region. 
 

In addition to large outdoor events, Michael has successfully introduced unique venues and concepts to the Island scene, including high-capacity rooftop car shows. These events not only provide a visually striking backdrop in Victoria, BC but also maximize space and spectator flow, allowing for even larger gatherings. His ability to scale events while maintaining organization and safety has set a new standard for local automotive shows.
 

Beyond event hosting, Michael is a multifaceted creator. He has designed the 1 of 1 Western Speedway Autographed poster with over 300 signatures from Drivers, pit crews, staff and more with net proceeds going to the new south Island track and the original poster to be displayed in the Victoria's Auto Racing Hall of Fame. He has edited and produced a huge 2026 Vancouver Island Events Calendar project with over 60 Automotive events from all over Vancouver Island with over 30 local advertising company sponsors! He has designed and edited dozens of custom automotive posters, Show info boards, show flyers, registration systems, dash plaques, show trophies, hero cards for race car drivers, and large-format promotional materials, including shopping center cineplex screens and jumbo tron advertisements. His work extends into apparel design, producing quality custom t-shirts, hoodies, license plates, and merchandise for race teams, car owners, and brands. He has also created and edited promotional videos, interviews, shop tours and highlight reels that further amplify the reach of the automotive community.
 

Michael’s impact goes beyond cars. A strong believer in giving back, he has integrated charitable initiatives into his events, helping raise thousands of dollars for local organizations such as the Help Fill A Dream Foundation. His shows are not just gatherings—they are community-driven experiences that include family-friendly activities, vendor participation, and opportunities for local businesses to gain exposure.
 

Through relentless effort and consistency, Light’EmUp.TV has grown to a combined audience of well over One hundred and ten thousand followers to date across all social media platforms, generating tens of millions of video views and significant engagement worldwide. His platforms have become a central hub for Vancouver Island’s automotive scene—promoting events, showcasing builds, and connecting enthusiasts year-round.
 

Today, Michael Nicholson continues to push Light’EmUp.TV forward with bigger venues, larger and more unique shows, and new concepts designed to elevate the Island’s automotive culture even further. With a clear vision, strong community ties, and proven execution, he is on a path to becoming one of the most influential automotive event organizers and recognized media creators across the world