Since 2020, we have hosted two editions of Boudica Music Conference at Freemasons’ Hall, and one at the Museum of Modern Art Bologna (MAMbo). For our 2023 edition of the conference set to take place on 25th November, we have been invited to FOLD, an epicentre of the Queer music scene in London.
Once again, Boudica will present a day and night dedicated to exchanging knowledge in an accessible, safer environment. Alongside our usual programme of panels and electronic music, we have two new additions to our London-based conference schedule: a one-to-one Mentorship Hub and a DJ Workshop in collaboration with Pioneer DJ. Boudica Music Conference strives to encourage more Trans+, Female and Non-Binary individuals to become involved in the music industry. We have a terrific lineup of industry professionals such as NIKS, Adem Holness, Planningtorock and many more. The day will then be followed by shows at FOLD from Blasha & Allatt, LYDO, Samantha Togni and Swan Meat.
Boudica Music Conference is supported by Arts Council England, Downtown Music, Musicians’ Union, Pioneer DJ and Resident Advisor. This is a +21 venue, please bring ID.
FULL PROGRAMME BELOW:
PANELS:
1) BUILDING A SUPPORTIVE WORLD WITHIN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY FOR TRANS+, NON-BINARY AND FEMALE-IDENTIFYING INDIVIDUALS
In The Jaguar Foundation’s groundbreaking report on gender representation in UK dance music, it was unsurprisingly discovered that gender disparity within the music industry is a persistent issue. Minoritised genders are repeatedly othered, excluded and discriminated against. While there is progress being made, the music industry still has a long way to go in achieving a more equitable representation and treatment of female, trans+ and non-binary individuals. In this panel, the speakers will explore the varied means by which we can build a supportive world within the music industry despite its current ecosystem.
Host:
Vanessa Maria (Don’t Keep Hush)
Panellists:
Jaye Ward (DJ)
June Lam (GGi Club/ We Exist London)
Max Blue Churchill
Nadine Noor (Pxssy Palace)
2) BREAKING BARRIERS AND AMPLIFYING EACH OTHER’S VOICES: THE POWER OF COMMUNITY
In recent years, the electronic music landscape has undergone significant changes, driven in part by the widespread adoption of electronic music by Gen Z through platforms like TikTok. This transformation has piqued corporate interest and investment in the industry, leading to a reshaping of its dynamics. Nonetheless, it is crucial to emphasise the enduring vitality of grassroots and DIY nightlife communities. These spaces have long played a vital role in amplifying the voices of marginalised individuals, demonstrating remarkable resilience and adaptability. In this panel, the speakers unite to celebrate the strength of community-driven initiatives and explore innovative strategies to address the challenges brought about by corporate involvement. The speakers will offer insights on dismantling barriers, mutually amplifying voices, and preserving the spirit of our communities.
Host:
Āliyah Husna / THEMPRESS (Good Night Out/Riposte)
Panellists:
Mandidextrous (Speed Bass/ Amen4Teko/ TNT Sound System)
Lasha Jorjoliani (FOLD Co-Founder)
Linett Kamala (Notting Hill Carnival / Lin Kam Art)
NIKS (Black Artist Database)
3) AMPLIFYING TRANS+ VOICES IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY
In light of current circumstances and the increasingly heightened challenges faced by Trans+ individuals within the music industry, we're announcing an emergency Trans+ panel. This initiative is a direct, immediate response to the urgent issues and adversity Trans+ people are enduring in the troubling current climate of increased hate crimes, physical assaults and political and media scapegoating. We must shine a spotlight on these concerns and engage in meaningful discussions within the music industry. As a potent cultural force, the music industry cannot remain indifferent to the struggles faced by its own community members. Now more than ever it's essential for people to become adept at addressing transphobia head-on, by equipping individuals with the language and tools to act and engage in these conversations is pivotal for driving change, promoting inclusivity and staunchly opposing discrimination. Our panel is steadfast in providing a platform where these critical issues can be openly and constructively discussed by Trans+ people. We are committed to fostering a nurturing environment that acknowledges the unique challenges faced by Trans+ individuals and are actively seeking solutions that can be acted on. Boudica invites everyone to participate in this vital conversation and collective effort to establish a safer and more inclusive music community for all.
Host:
Āliyah Husna / THEMPRESS (Good Night Out/Riposte)
Panellists:
I.JORDAN
Planningtorock
Princess Xixi
Teecra (FOLD)
4) LGBTQIA+ REPRESENTATION IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY: CHALLENGES AND TRIUMPHS
Across history, the LGBTQIA+ community has always altered the music’s trajectory for the better, pioneering new sounds, genres and essential cultural movements that pave the way for positive change. Yet simultaneously, trailblazing LGBTQIA+ music industry professionals have been sidelined, as mainstream society capitalises on pieces of the Queer aesthetic whilst discarding components they deem too subversive or political. This panel will examine the multitude of experiences faced by LGBTQIA+ people working within the music industry, exploring the difficulties, successes and means by which we can make music a safer, representative and inclusive space for all identities.
Host:
Eve Horne (MPG)
Panellists:
Manuka Honey (SUZIO / Woo)
Rhona Ezuma (THIIIRD Magazine)
Saskhia Menendez (UME/ Artist Manager/ MMF Member/ Keychange)
Steven Braines (he.she.they)
5) WORKING TOWARDS A BRIGHTER FUTURE IN THE MUSIC INDUSTRY
CO-HOSTED BY MUSICIANS’ UNION
In recent years, the music industry has frequently highlighted the importance of 'safe spaces,' 'inclusivity,' and 'diversity.' However, there is often a disconnect between these ideals and their actual implementation by organisations, brands, and promoters. All too often, these concepts are used as empty buzzwords, lacking real substance and accountability, especially for marginalised communities. In this panel, our speakers engage in a thoughtful discussion on how we can foster welcoming workplaces, nightlife settings, and opportunities, even in the presence of systemic challenges and oppression. We aim to explore practical ways to create genuinely supportive and accessible environments for everyone.
Host:
John Shortell (Musicians’ Union)
Panellists:
Adem Holness (Southbank Centre)
Emma Wiggin (Westwick Management)
Emily Howard (Boiler Room)
Eve Horne (MPG)
RA EXCHANGE:
On the day of our event, we are thrilled to announce that we will be hosting an RA Exchange with Lasha Jorjoliani, the co-founder of FOLD. This exclusive interview offers a unique opportunity to delve deeper into the insights, experiences, and inspirations that have shaped FOLD's journey and mission. Lasha's perspective and vision have played a pivotal role in creating an inclusive space in the music industry. Through this RA Exchange, we hope to uncover the behind-the-scenes stories that have fueled FOLD's commitment to fostering a diverse and supportive community within the music scene.
MENTORSHIP HUB:
For our third edition of the conference, we are introducing the Mentorship Hub. Conference attendees will have the opportunity to book a half-an-hour, one-to-one slot with four leading music industry professionals and ask them questions in a safe, private and comfortable environment. Ticketholders can book slots with our mentors from October 25th. Please expect an email with further details then.
Mentors:
Lucy Atkinson (Booking Agent at EARTH AGENCY)
Loz Bruneau (Senior Marketing Manager at BMG) Ria Hylton (DJ Mag)
Roxanne Oak (Dance Music Specialist Account Manager at PPL)
Ria Hylton (DJ MAG)
Ra
DJ WORKSHOP:
Boudica is proud to present a DJ Workshop in collaboration with Pioneer DJ as part of their Start From Scratch initiative. The initiative has been created to support minoritized and underrepresented communities hoping to kickstart a DJing career regardless of expertise or background. In total, there will be 32 slots available with DJs Imogen and Swan Meat. we will run two separate workshops of 16 people each throughout the day. To take part in the DJ Workshop, ticketholders will be able to book slots from October 25th. Please expect an email with further details then.
AFTER THE SUN SETS:
The day will be followed by DJ sets from the likes of: Blasha & Allatt LYDO Samantha Togni Swan Meat DJ CALLOUT: We are delighted to announce that we are looking for emerging Trans+, Non-Binary and Female-identifying DJs to play alongside this stellar lineup at FOLD. This opportunity will be paid. We encourage all UK-based artists to enter, and we are in no way judging DJs on experience or social media following. To enter, please provide us with the following: An hour-long mix (electronic music only please) A short introduction about yourself, your musical style and any experience A few words on why you would like to DJ at our event A link to your social media to help us verify you are a real person Entries are now open via this Google Form. The competition will close on 16th October at 17:00 & we will announce the winner soon after.
➣ FOLD operates a strict 21+ and ID check at the door policy.
➣ Please make sure to bring a physical ID for a smooth entry.
➣ NO RACISM, NO SEXISM, NO HOMOPHOBIA, NO TRANSPHOBIA
➣ Any accessibility requirements or further questions, please email info@theonlyboudica.com
