Culture Writer and Digital Producer

Sajae is a culture writer and digital producer with work that has appeared in publications like The FADER, Vice, Complex, Noisey, Buzzfeed, and Blavity over the last 5 years. She works cross-functionally with social media, marketing, and external communications teams to create content that resonates with audiences most.

@jaefiasco

Media Consultant | Peart Media + Business Consultant

A daughter of the Jamaican soil, Danae is an intelligent, resourceful, leader, coach and change maker. 

She holds undergraduate degrees in Communications & Linguistics and Urban Studies (cum-laude) from York and a Masters of Applied Environmental Science (Local Economic Development) from University of Waterloo. 

As Chief Executive Officer of CHRY Community Radio for over a decade, Danae was responsible for the successful reorganization and establishment of social enterprise VX3 Exchange Inc (for vocational training in media arts), and the creation of VIBE 105FM (Toronto's Diverse Music Mix). Her experiences at CHRY/VIBE were amongst the topics of her 2015 TEDx YorkU’ Ricochet series presentation. 

Upon completion of CHRY's transition to VIBE, Danae successfully embarked on a professional transition to health care. Building on her educational background and tenure as past president/chair of Black Creek Community Health Centre, she is currently the Lead Administrator for a pair of Nurse Practitioner-Led Clinics in Toronto.

She is the owner of Peart Media + Business Consulting, through which she consults to entities such as VX3, co-manages artists, and provides small business and entrepreneurial advisement. In her alternate business hours Danae may be found debating politics or ideology, hosting radio shows, events, concerts, panels or pursuing her love of acting and comedic ventures.

Radio Promotion And Publicity | Warner Music Canada

Donald "D" Robins has been involved in the Canadian music industry for the past 25 years & has been a contributor to Canada’s growing black music movement. He grew up listening to various genres and has a love of music. 

He has worn hats as DJ, major record label promoter, former on-air radio & TV personality, tour manager, record importer, and entrepreneur. 

While completing his college degree, Donald volunteered at CKVR college radio, becoming assitant station manager while there. During his DJ days, he was part of a music import and talent booking agency. As it grew, it sparked Donald's interest in major labels. In 1997, he joined Universal Music Canada as a street lifestyle consultant for the Quebec market. 3 years later he moved to EMI Music Canada as a radio promotion rep. 

For over 13 years, Donald volunteered weekly at CKUT- Radio McGill as programmer of the popular Soul/R&B based Weekend Groove. In 2003, his experience led him to an invitation to join CBC Galaxie radio, a position he held until 2014. He held employment at Sony Music Canada, and has been at Warner Music Canada since 2005. 

His pride in supporting Canadian talent has enabled him to understand how Canadian musicians are marketed to consumers here & in foreign markets.

Radio Personality | Voice & Raptors In-Arena Host

Mark Strong is a product of Toronto's celebrated "Fresh Arts" program of the early 90s - his cohort includes Kardinal Offishall, Jully Black, Saukrates and video director littlex.

After a stint in internet radio, Mark became co-host of the beloved morning show (alongside Jemeni) on Canada's 1st Urban music station. 

As one of Canada's most in demand voice over talents, Mark's resume includes his role as voice of The Juno Awards (6 years), Canada's Walk of Fame (5 years), warm up talent for Howie Mandel's "Deal or No Deal", Collin Mochrie's "Are You Smarter than a Canadian 5th Grader", and YTV's "The Next Star" finales in 2008/2009.

An avid sports fan, Mark became host of NBAXL, a national NBA basketball/magazine show broadcast across Canada that exposes Mark’s energy from coast-to-coast by interviewing players though a basketball culture perspective. He is in-stadium host and hype man for Toronto Argonauts and Toronto Raptors home games.

Marks return to radio sparked the city once again. Back at the helm of morning radio on Toronto's G987fm, Strizzzy’s new and loyal audiences have grown with him and the new impactful station. G brings a blend of old school/new school, soul, groove, hip hop, R&B, Soca, Reggae all over a bed of Caribbean culture and flava - a perfect blend for Mark's charismatic character.

A dedicated family man, Strong works hard to be a positive role model in several communities. His persona has managed to captivate thousands of listeners and viewers with his humour, creative parodies, witty topics and commanding presence. He is always up for the challenge to push the creative envelope and there’s no telling where he’ll take it next.

Radio Personality

Gail Phillip has a long-standing professional career in the North American music entertainment industry and is a lifelong advocate for the professional development of women. 

Gail honed skills as a TV executive in Marketing & Sales at the top Television Networks in Canada; CTV, Global & CBC before diving into the music industry, and has held roles as a Radio Executive at G987FM (CKFG-FM) and as Director of Advertising Sales for JAZZ.FM 91 (CJRT-FM).

She has a proven track record in all facets of artist management, has owned an independent label responsible for launching the careers of Juno nominated artist; Ray Robinson and Kim Davis, and has obtained sponsorships and endorsement deals from various companies including Roots Canada, Honey Jam, Universal Music Canada and major radio and television outlets.

She has formerly held positions as juror of The Juno Awards & Factor, as Network manager of NABFEME (National Association of Black Female Executives in Music & Entertainment - Canadian Chapter), and as Artist Relations Director for UMAC (The Urban Music Association of Canada). 

Gail is currently Manager, Client Services for FACTOR (The Foundation Assisting Canadian Talent on Recordings) a non-for profit funding agency.

Media Professional (Commercial Broadcaster, Instructor)

With over 30 years in the commercial radio business, Wayne was that guy falling to sleep with his radio tucked under his pillow listening to his favourite station (WBLK) back in the day.

Armed with a radio and television college degree Wayne has helped launch some iconic radio stations during his successful career.

From the ground breaking original Energy Radio, to Flow 93.5, G98.7 and hosting numerous T.V shows in between.

Wayne has had an extensive career in media and is extremely passionate about the industry.

Wayne now teaches new media at Humber College and owns his own Digital Marketing Company “Agency9.”

Media Professional (Commercial Broadcaster | Instructor)

Originally from Leeds, England. Tony aka Master T was a decorated VJ at Much Music hosting, producing and interviewing some of the most popular artists in the world, including Madonna, Janet Jackson, Eminem, Mary J. Blige, Backstreet Boys, Spice Girls, Meat Loaf, Jay-Z, 2Pac and countless others. 

Currently, he's the Director of Media Production for RX music, a music consultancy agency. Tony is also proud to be hosting and producing their online series, RX Music Live. Master T pulls back the curtain and brings a fresh perspective on the life, times, struggles and story behind some today's brightest stars. 

Agency Associate -Blue Crane Agency Co-Founder of UNCDTNL Support

Yvette Angela is currently the Agency Associate at Blue Crane Agency. Her and her business partners’ company, UNCDTNL Support, has produced shows for festivals such as Manifesto, Canadian Music Week and POP Montreal, while participating in the Live Music Summit as panelists and being named ‘Local Heroes’ in NOW Toronto in 2019.

When she is not working in live music, Yvette works with artists, providing support in the areas of public relations, artist management and administration.

Director of Venue Operations

Orin Bristol is a 26 year veteran of the entertainment and hospitality industry.

He began his career at Toronto’s Limelight Nightclub, and has served as manager at iconic electronic music venue System Sound Bar, and Peter Gaishen’s Circa Nightclub before joining Charles Khabouth’s Ink Entertainment, North America's leading entertainment and lifestyle company where he managed the legendary Guvernment/Koolhaus Complex.

Today, in his role as Director Of Venue Operations for Ink, his portfolio includes various properties, including the Rebel Nightclub, Cabana Pool Bar, Toybox, DragonFly Niagara, Cube Nighclub and the all-new Cityview Drive-In Theatre.

Founder10 at 10 Music & Culture

Beni Johnson is a bonafide creative, momentum maker, and serial entrepreneur. For 12 years he has run his own graphic and web design studio, expanding recently into branding, marketing, and recording artist consultancy.

Simultaneously, he has been acknowledged amongst Calgary’s Top 40 Under 40 by Avenue Magazine for developing some of the most respected and unique cultural experiences throughout Alberta. He is most recognized for his work as founder of 10 at 10, Calgary’s premier hub for hip hop culture, music, black entertainment, and community. As an artist, his original spoken word poetry piece was used to create ATB Financial’s award-winning “Amplify” campaign.

As a rap artist he toured Canada and performed at SXSW (South by South West), before taking his current hiatus. However, you can still find him on stage, emceeing events or hosting parties. In his spare time, you can catch him on a basketball court or being a mentor to young professionals. He currently sits on the board of Music Calgary and the Chinook Blast sub-committee as a general advisor.

DJ / Creator / Event Producer - Ebony & Ivory Lifestyle | Carivibe Festival Ottawa

Trevor Mason (AKA DJ Mace) was born in Toronto and moved to Kingston at a young age.

At the age of 12, he took up DJing and by the age of 15, inspired by Toronto’s music scene. He moved to Ottawa in the early ‘90s to attend Algonquin College, making his way onto the music scene with the grass-roots approach of creating and selling his mixtapes, which stirred such a buzz that he caught the attention of other local DJs, night club owners, and promoters.

He is a founding member of the legendary Canadian Ebony & Ivory Soundcrew, which has produced large-scale events, played Ottawa local nightclubs and travelled across the country, drawing thousands of patrons. Trevor Mason (DJ Mace) is one of Ottawa’s most sought after entertainment personalities and the go-to man for many of the industry’s top business leaders and brands. Mace’s musical expertise has been called upon for product launches and special events for partners including Nordstrom, H&M, Ted Baker, Adidas, Armani, Tommy Hilfiger.

Trevor is owner of Ebony & Ivory Lifestyle, Creator of Rewind - Ottawa’s #1 Old School Party, founder of Talented Kids Ottawa Non-Profit Organization, Owner of Bananas Beach Grill & Rum Shack and President of Carivibe Beach Food Festival. For 8 years he was the Mix Show DJ on Hot 89.9 FM - Ottawa’s #1 hit music station and is a winner of Pioneer DJ Stylus Award for Ottawa’s Best DJ.

CEO and Event Director | Polly Perry Events

Polly Perry is the CEO and Event Director of Polly Perry Events, An Openmind Group and Co-Founder of the Afro- Caribbean Vegan Market.

As part of Toronto’s Black Queer entertainment scene for over 20 years, Polly is a respected pioneer of the scene. Her company is responsible for some of the most anticipated events such as Heat, Classic, Humble, the annual “ PURE” All White Dinner Boat Cruise, and annual Pride week productions.

In 2000, a time when there were limited options for the Black Queer Community to safely gather, celebrate, socialize and be themselves; Polly and her business partner founded Club Manhattan, the longest run weekly Queer Urban Event Space for POC in Canada.

Polly has used her extensive marketing and business background to create a brand that offers premier events for the LGBTQ2S community, hosted in some of Toronto’s most amazing venues.

In 2019, she co-founded the Afro-Caribbean Vegan Market to provide a safe accessible space for small businesses to market and sell their Afro-Caribbean inspired plant-based products, goods and services.

Over the years she has been a mentor, and has used her network and platform to share information, generate employment, and provide opportunities for entertainers and artists. She supports various causes and organizations via donations and by participation in the production of fundraisers and more.

Senior Producer at Harbourfront | Festival Director Caribbean Tales International Film Festival

Diana Webley specializes in artistic direction, planning, programming, development and producing in the diverse city of Toronto and making pathways to produce abroad. She has worked extensively in the North American market to develop opportunities in mentorship, networking, collaborations and is currently working on expansion into the Global market.

Diana is the Senior Producer at Harbourfront Centre which produces over a thousand events featuring hundreds of artists each year with innovative cultural exchanges. In her 15 year tenure, She has occupied roles as Artistic Associate, Project Coordinator/Artistic Associate, and most recently accepted a new role as the Acting Manager in the Cultural Engagement Department at Harbourfront Centre.

She is also Festival Director for the Caribbean Tales International Film Festival and a part-time Professor in the Centennial College Arts Management Program.

CEO Mediacom Canada

Kevin is a senior executive who joined MediaCom as the Chief Client Officer in 2014. Less than a year later he was appointed as CEO of MediaCom Canada and since then has helped Mediacom grow it’s footprint outside of Media Planning & Buying to include Content Creation, Business Analytics, and most recently creating divisions that serve Sports & Entertainment and connecting with diverse communities.

Over the past year, MediaCom has seen continued organic and new business growth with the addition of brands like Uber, Hotels.com, Aldo, Roots, and Adidas.

Since joining MediaCom, Kevin’s strong leadership has made a tremendous impact on the relationship with Mediacom’s partners as well as strengthening the company’s People First culture.

As MediaCom’s CEO, Kevin Johnson has not only inspired those who work with him to strive for great achievement, but also to strive for creating a culture within MediaCom that is gratifying, accepting and innovative

Kevin is a proud community mentor in Rexdale where he grew up and believes giving back is the most important part of his legacy.  A proud father of three, Neveah 12, Keenan 11, and Cali 7; Kevin is all about family and loves nothing more than family time with a game of Trouble.

Ashley has been a Creative Director, Design Lead, Curator and part-time Academic Professor with over 15 years of experience in the advertising, media/publishing, retail, editorial, financial, entertainment and charity, non-profit sectors. 

As a Creative Director and Art Director, she has conceptualized and lead award-winning global campaigns for Scotiabank and executed large-scale projects for Indigo’s digital platforms, TEDxToronto, Bell Media, WE Charity and several small to mid-sized creative agencies. Her designs skills were also most recently acquired by Lauryn Hill for her fashion collection celebrating 20 years of the Miseducation of Lauryn Hill. Most recently she was one of the 2019 curators for Nuit Blanche Toronto, and her curatorial work has included programming, exhibitions, creative collaborations and installations for companies such Samsung, Harbourfront Centre, Manifesto Festival and Soho House. 

Throughout the year, she’s public speaker, and has moderated and facilitated workshops and talks across many forums including OCAD, City of Toronto, Humber College, #MoveTheDial, Ontario Arts Council, TDSB, The Power Plant, Ontario Association of Art Galleries, FreshBooks, ArtReach, Nia Centre for the Arts, UofT, Artscape and others.

Video Director | Editor - In Hindzsight

HINDZ is the sole creator & voice of his own brand “in hindzsight “ Who produces a daily podcast + video content integrating mindfulness & entertainment  across all social media platforms. + Co owner in Play Process , a creative collective in Vancouver BC who has worked with companies such as Nike , Marley Coffee , Facebook Oculus , Levis , Sony BMG & more.

Imad Elsheikh is an Executive Producer and Creative Consultant based out of Toronto. He founded PIQUE, a digital production platform that collaborates with young creators across the globe. It aims to produce digital content and special events for artists and creators. PIQUE is passionate in nurturing and developing those with little experience and matching them up with industry professionals and productions.

Imad constantly seeks new challenges and projects to continue to develop his craft. PIQUE is an opportunity to use his expertise and to collaborate with other artists while showcasing and celebrating the wealth of talent throughout Canada’s neighborhoods and abroad.

He has worked with various partners and brands including CBC, adidas, Warner Music, Red Bull, Universal, Nobis, Kuumba, and other independent international artists.

Kaya Pino is a music supervisor and producer. Blending a deeply personal understanding of music’s affect on both audience and art form with an ability to create relationships between movement, musicality, rhythm and sound, Kaya takes an anthropological approach to music supervision. She started her career in advertising, and continues to work in the branding space alongside film and series projects. Kaya’s recent credits include: Acquainted (2019), International Emmy-nominated web series How to Buy a Baby (Season 2), and TD Music: Weaves & Clairmont The Second.

Award winning Singer, songwriter, actor, speaker, cultural connector.

Jully Black is a true Canadian Icon. Named as one of ‘The 25 Greatest Canadian Singers Ever’, (CBC Music) she has been dubbed ‘Canada’s Queen of R&B Soul’. As a platinum selling recording artist, her music career has yielded multiple singles reaching the Top 10 pop, R&B and dance music charts. She has taken home Juno and Gemini Awards, earned innumerable industry accolades and was hand selected to sing for the Queen of England.

With her powerhouse vocals, hilarious personality and love of people, Jully Black truly is every woman. Her passion for philanthropy has taken her from the shantytowns of Bangladesh to the villages of South Africa and all across Canada. As a woman of faith, she champions important causes and uses her career as a platform to celebrate and inspire the greatness that lies within each of us.

As a songwriter, Jully has written music that has touched the hearts of her fans and collaborated with industry heavyweights such as Sean Paul, Destiny’s Child, among many others. She has shared the stage with superstars such as The Black Eyed Peas, Kanye West, Celine Dion, Elton John and Etta James to name a few.

Jully is a major presence in the Canadian media and entertainment industry. As former host and correspondent for CTV’s etalk, Jully was chosen to interview global megastars such as Jay-Z, Oprah Winfrey, and former president Bill Clinton. She has also appeared in films, television and theatre.

With purpose driven ideals and boundless spiritual fortitude, she continues to refine and reinvent her artistry. A phenom in Canadian entertainment, lifestyle and public speaking arenas, she is co-founder and key note speaker for the renowned “Empowered In My Skin’ women’s empowerment summits, a Notable.ca award recipient, a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ+ communities and a WE Day ambassador.

Manager, Publisher, A&R / Board Member - Music Managers Forum Canada)

Jermayne Clayton is President (Management Division) and a driving force of Awesome Productions & Management; an up and coming artist management, label and publishing company. As President, Clayton is responsible for the ever-growing talented roster of electronic/dance artists (Cyril Hahn, Adam K), Hip-Hop/R&B producers (Grammy and Juno nominated Producer Jordon Manswell), and artists (Juno nominated singer and songwriter Jhyve).

Clayton’s love for music is undeniable - a passion that began at a young age. Rhythms from Frank Sinatra, Marvin Gaye to Bob Marley, continue to run through his Jamaican-Canadian blood inspiring him daily. Dedicated to amplifying Canadian talent, Clayton continues to drive each initiative with more passion than the last. With an artist-first mentality and keen eye, he is focused on building the brands of his roster - in a time where Canadian Music continues to be a shining light in todays' music industry.

Born in the capital city, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago, it quickly became evident that Kerwin was destined for success in Calypso and Soca. After making his debut in the nation’s first Junior Calyso Monarch, he would win in his second year, bringing him to the attention of industry gurus.

The talented performer rose through the ranks of the calypso world, capturing the Young Kings title and even reached the ‘Big Yard’ for the National Calypso Monarch finals on several occasions. He later settled in the UK for a number of years, eventually capturing the UK Calypso Monarch title.

In recent years, Du Bois has extended his talents as a Calypsonian into Soca not only as a performer but also as a highly acclaimed and sought after producer and songwriter. His efforts have been acknowledged by some of the other major soca artists such as Machel Montano, Bunji Garlin, Destra Garcia, Kees Dieffenthaller, Denise Belfon, Farmer Nappy, Blaxx and Lyrikal who have all tapped into the talents of this accomplished hit maker. With all of his success and recognition

Du Bois has maintained a level head, humbly accepting and title of “musical genius” which was bestowed by industry stakeholders and heavyweights.

He has been travelling extensively while he puts in an immense amount of work in his Toronto based studio, KNS. He is a powerhouse of young talent bringing Soca music to the world, as he plans to develop and further his drive in taking Soca music to places beyond our imagination.

Producer | Songwriter | A&R - Warner Canada

LordQuest is a BET and Grammy Award-nominated producer/songwriter with 15+ years of music industry experience. He has written songs and produced for the likes of Kelly Rowland, SiR,  50 Cent, Schoolboy Q and Juice Wrld.

He was recently appointed the new A&R of hiphop/RnB at Warner Canada making him the first black A&R in the companies history. With a vision for music and a passion for seeing artists succeed, Quest is looking forward to shaping the landscape of the Canadian music industry.

Artist

Haviah Mighty didn’t need to change her birth name when she decided to dedicate her career to music. In fact, Mighty couldn’t be more accurate a word to describe the artist, named one of XXL’s 15 Toronto Rappers You Should Know in 2019. Raised in a musical household in Toronto, Ontario, Mighty started singing at the age of 4, rapping at 11, and producing at 15.

Haviah has been releasing music independently since 2009, but it was her project, Flower City (2017), that propelled her career into further success. To date, Mighty recently released 2019 Polaris Prize-winning album, 13th Floor, her most fully-realized project to date, making history as the first hip hop artist and first Black woman to ever receive the award. Garnering overwhelming praise from the likes of Pitchfork, Billboard, Hot New Hip Hop, and Lyrical Lemonade to name a few, Haviah continues to carve out spaces that boldly defy gendered expectations for women in hip hop.

Lead guitarist/ vocalist of Toronto-based punk band The OBGMs. 

A Canadian Independent Music Award nominee, Denz has grace stages with artist Saul Williams, Bad Brains, and Pusha T. Denz has made it his mission to use his platform to speak out for the underrepresented and amplify melanated voices. 

Born in British Columbia to a father from South Africa and a mother from the United Kingdom, Ibrahim spent her childhood as what she describes as a "citizen of the world", living at different times in Canada, South Africa, the United Kingdom, France and Lebanon. Her father, Zane Ibrahim, was a pioneering radio broadcaster in South Africa, who was one of the founders of the influential community radio station Bush Radio.

She moved to Toronto, Ontario in the mid-2000s, and soon became a popular draw on the city's live music scene. She released her debut EP, Shö (Iqra in Orange), in 2006. Following one show at the El Mocambo in 2007, her production team and supporting musicians immediately formed an assembly line to produce and burn a compact disc recording of the just-completed show for immediate sale; the lineup to purchase copies extended well outside the club's front door.

She released a second EP, Eclectica (Episodes in Purple), in 2008. Her live shows to support the EP included an appearance with Bedouin Soundclash at the 2008 MuchMusic Video Awards, and a show opening for Erykah Badu at Massey Hall. She garnered a Juno Award nomination for R&B/Soul Recording of the Year at the Juno Awards of 2009 for her single "Money". Her song "Ansomnia" was included in the 2010 film soundtrack For Colored Girls: Music From and Inspired by the Original Motion Picture Soundtrack.

Her first full-length album, Every Opposite, was released in 2012. The album was named as a longlisted nominee for the 2013 Polaris Music Prize on June 13, 2013, and subsequently named to the short list on July 16, 2013.

Rapper, Executive, Philanthropist

For the past two decades, Scarborough born rapper, executive and philanthropist, Kardinal Offishall has paved the way for a new wave of Canadian superstars (including Drake, who credited him with being one of the people who opened the door for Canadian music worldwide).

Kardinal has been nominated for 15 Juno Awards and is a multiple ASCAP award and Socan award winner. He first claimed the international music stage with his own single Dangerous, which leapt quickly into the top 5 on the Billboard Hot 100, making him the first rapper in Canadian history to do so. He also features with Global Superstars, such as Lady Gaga, Rihanna, Sean Paul, Akon and performed in some of the world’s most prestigious stadiums and festivals. Kardinal is world renowned for his distinctive, high energy, mash-up performances as well as his untamed positive energy and knowledge of the music business.

Outreach and Development Manager at the Ontario Arts Council

Bushra Junaid manages the Skills and Career Development: Indigenous Arts Professionals and Arts Professionals of Colour and Deaf and Disability Arts programs.

Born in Montreal to Jamaican and Nigerian parents and raised in St. John’s, Bushra has spent more than a decade supporting the development and artistic practices of artists from a diverse range of communities and cultures. Bushra has also worked in social housing, low income and homeless initiatives, and newcomer and refugee settlement.

As an artist and curator, Bushra explores history, memory and representation through mixed media collage, drawing and painting. Her work was recently included in They Forgot That We Were Seeds (2020, Carleton University Art Gallery), Like Sugar (2019, Tang Teaching Museum and Art Gallery), Future Possible: Art of Newfoundland & Labrador to 1949 (2018, The Rooms Provincial Art Gallery), Here We Are Here: Black Canadian Contemporary Art (2018-19, Royal Ontario Museum, Musée des Beaux Arts, Art Gallery of Nova Scotia), among others. Bushra curated What Carries Us: Newfoundland and Labrador in the Black Atlantic (2020, The Rooms Provincial Art Gallery) and co-curated the multidisciplinary project New-Found-Lands: Exploring Historical and Contemporary Connections between Newfoundland and the Caribbean Diaspora (2016, Eastern Edge Gallery).

Bushra received a Bachelor of Environmental Design Studies and Masters of Architecture from the Technical University of Nova Scotia.

Culture & Music Journalist / DSP Content Programmer

For the past decade, Erin has spent her time diving into the worlds of music journalism, digital content creation, and festival programming with the hopes of pushing the Canadian music community, specifically Black music (Hip-Hop and R&B), to the forefront of the entertainment industry.

The most recent additions to Erin’s career in the music industry include her work as an interview producer and researcher for the Emmy and Peabody-award winning Netflix series Hip-Hop Evolution, and she currently works as a Hip-Hop and R&B Content Programmer in the digital streaming world.

Artist Manager

Katrina is the president of KL Management, whose roster includes platinum selling, Juno Award winning artist & producer Shawn Desman, soul artist, film composer & Sephora collaborator TiKA, soul singer and TedX speaker Danielle Ponder, and pop singer/songwriter Kayla Diamond. KL has also worked with Family Channel stars Josh Bogert (“Backstage”) and Sarah Carmosino (“Lost & Found”).

KL clients have toured with Backstreet Boys, Selena Gomez, opened for NAO, John Legend, Nas, SWV, and performed alongside Sir Elton John. Together with its clients KL has garnered accolades including MMVA Video of the Year, Socan #1 Award, Socan Pop Song of the Year, and numerous platinum and gold singles. She executive produced the film "ALIVE" which aired on MUCH. The film was the cornerstone of an innovative campaign to promote Desman's album, winning “Outstanding Short Film” ReelWorld Film Awards, and garnering Canadian Screen Award nominations for “Best Youth Program/Series” and “Best Direction in Youth Program/Series”.

KL also serves on the board of directors for Manifesto, a contemporary youth arts and culture platform, producing curated programming in music, visual arts, and dance.

Marketing Manager - Warner Music Canada

Founder, Entrepreneur, Music Mogul

Entrepreneur Chris Smith is the visionary behind some of the entertainment industry’s biggest names of the past two decade. Chris has successfully shaped the career of eight platinum musical artists including Alessia Cara, Nelly Furtado, Fefe Dobson, The Philosopher Kings and Tamia. He remains one of the most sought after entertainment and brand managers in the industry. Chris’ acumen is exemplified by having both Gold and Platinum in most record selling countries in the world.

Chris Smith Management as a company has garnered a number of prestigious awards and critical press acclaim including Management Company of the Year (Canadian Music Week), and Artist Management Company of the Year (Urban Music Awards). Chris has also been profiled in a number of international music and lifestyle publications, including Billboard Magazine, Elm Street Magazine and Pollstar; and managed several award winning artists who have earned Grammy Awards, Junos Awards, Billboard Music Awards, Music Awards, ASCAP Awards and MTV Video Music Awards.

Director/Booking Agent | R.I.S.E Edutainment Inc

Randell Adjei is an entrepreneur, speaker and spoken word practitioner who uses his gifts to empower through Edutainment. He is the founder of one of Toronto's largest youth led initiatives; Reaching Intelligent Souls Everywhere (R.I.S.E Edutainment). In 2018, R.I.S.E received the Toronto Arts Foundation’s, Mayor’s Youth Arts Award. 

Randell is the author of “I am Not my struggles,” a powerful Anthology released in 2018. He is a cohort 2 Studio Y MaRS DD Fellow and 1 of 4 coaches involved in the Toronto Public Library (Poetry Saved Our Lives) project.

Randell was the Black Canadian Awards - Best Spoken Word award winner in 2015. Randell was also named CBC’s Metro Morning’s Torontonian of the Year in 2015 and NOW Magazines Local Hero in May 2017.

Randell recently opened up for President Barack Obama at the Economic Club of Canada. He has also opened up for Terry Crews, Paul Mooney, Saul Williams and Mayor John Tory.

Publicist, Sony Music & Member of ADVANCE

Jamelia Campbell is a first-generation Canadian, born and raised in Toronto of two Jamaican parents who instilled the love of music in her from an early age. Exposed to everything from Barrington to Vybz, En Vogue to Destiny’s Child and Eurythmics to Spice Girls, she got a crash course in the diversity of sound across various genres, geographic locations and eras. Her love for music furthered as she learned to play clarinet and violin in middle and high school band/orchestra, which led to singing in school and church choirs, followed by singing and dancing in musical theatre and commercial and TV broadcast appearances (MTV Live). However, as she transitioned to post-secondary education, Jamelia pivoted to a career path behind the scenes in the entertainment industry.

She attended Humber College, transferred to York University where she graduated with Bachelor of Arts in Sociology, and then to Seneca@York where she culminated her education with a post-graduate certification in Corporate Communications. The program allowed Jamelia to marry her love of music with her studies via an internship opportunity at Sony Music Canada, in the Media Relations department, and before the internship finished, Jamelia was hired full time in December 2015, becoming the label’s first Black publicist. Since then, she has transitioned from intern, to Coordinator, Associate and now, Manager, Media Relations working with a large roster of domestic and international artists, including Khalid, Rick Ross, H.E.R, and Diamond certified DJs Loud Luxury.

Executive Director - Nia Centre for the Arts

Alica Hall strongly believes in the transformative potential of the arts to empower and strengthen communities. She has a professional background in strategic communications, but her passion lies in creating safer spaces for artists to create and connect with new audiences. As the executive director of Nia Centre for the Arts, Alica is now heading up the development of Canada’s first professional multi-disciplinary arts facility dedicated to supporting and showcasing Afro-diasporic art.

Artist

Stephen Hennessy is an established performer with the Hip-Hop trio Butta Babees, a radio show host and DJ on C.K.U.T. 90.3FM at McGill University, an events organizer, and C.E.O. of Hype-Man Networks. He has also been working with youth as a profession for more than 20 years at several community organizations in Montreal in addition to his career as a child/family Pycho-Educator at the Jewish General Hospital’s Children Psychiatric Department.

Stephen’s community involvement began at the Youth In Motion centre in Little Burgundy. The organization received a Canadian Council for the Arts grant to create a compilation CD, which featured the talents of its young members 2001. By way of Westhaven, Stephen has remained active in his local community by launching an Urban Arts Academy. Much of his work has combined his two passions; art and youth work.

Rapper, Producer, Arts Educator | Rich Kidd Beats | The Remix Project

Rich Kidd began producing music as a teenager and received his first production credit at 19 years old for rap artists Frank n Dank's "Get Right Song". In 2007, he released the first of an annual compilation series called We on Some Rich Kidd Shit composed of seven volumes and featuring nearly 100 artists. In 2007, he produced four songs on rap artist Drake's Comeback Season mixtape.

He is a two-time nominee for the Juno Award for Rap Recording of the Year as a solo artist, garnering nominations at the Juno Awards of 2013 for The Closers and at the Juno Awards of 2014 for In My Opinion. In 2013, he formed the project Naturally Born Strangers with collaborators Tona and Adam Bomb. That group's debut release, The Legends League Presents: Naturally Born Strangers, won the Juno Award for Rap Recording of the Year at the Juno Awards of 2015.

Executive Director | PhemPhat Entertainment Group

Ebonnie Rowe has distinguished herself throughout her career as someone dedicated to the growth of others and the support of charitable causes with a positive community impact.. 

She has volunteered with, founded and directed organizations that cater to the needs of some of society’s overlooked groups including the Each One, Teach One mentoring program for Black Youth and PhemPhat Entertainment Group, a dynamic, all-female non-profit company that provides promotional, mentoring, networking, educational and performance opportunities for upcoming female artists and to support and promote women’s charities. 

Featured in “Canada 150 Women Conversations with Leaders, Champions, and Luminaries”, listed in the Who’s Who of Canadian Women, chosen as Miss Chatelaine” by Chatelaine Magazine, Ebonnie was also featured in TD Bank’s 2019 Canada-Wide Black History Month promotion featuring the initiatives they support in led by members of the Black community through a social media campaign and also posting photos and organization info on screens in their branches. She was selected as one of 1000 women photographed by Parisian photographer Pierre Maraval for an exhibit co-produced by Luminato and L’oreal Paris, the exhibit, titled “Mille Femmes” and aimed to capture inspirational women who embody the passion, heritage & inspiration behind Toronto's artistic community. And when Michelle Obama came to speak in Toronto with the Economic Club of Canada, she was chosen by the How She Hustles women’s network as part of a group who have been doing impactful work to benefit women and girls to be a specially invited guest.

25 years later, Honey Jam has grown to become an artist development programme and a much-anticipated annual multicultural showcase of upcoming artists in all genres of music, where talents such as Grammy Award winners Nelly Furtado and Melanie Fiona, along with Juno winners Kellylee Evans and Jully Black and Polaris Music Prize winner Haviah Mighty performed at the beginning of their careers. Ebonnie also does a version of Honey Jam in Barbados as well as a children’s essay contest and family event aimed at encouraging children to have empathy and take an active part In creating positive change in their families, schools and communities. 

Sales & Marketing Manager - The Orchard

Vanessa Adora is a Music Streaming Strategist with a passion for supporting diverse, emerging artists from Canada across the globe. Her core experience is marketing Canadian artists of all genres on Amazon Music, Apple Music, Deezer, SoundCloud, Spotify, and YouTube Music. Her expertise is championing Canadian artists locally and internationally and promoting international artists on streaming platforms in Canada.

Digital Marketing Manager - Universal Music Canada

As Digital Marketing Manager at Universal Music Canada, Zoë Badley has overseen some of the company's most dynamic digital marketing campaigns like TTC's Tracks on Tracks program, for some of the most in-demand triple A artists like Billie Eilish, Jonas Brothers, Sam Smith and more. With over eight years of experience under her belt in the digital marketing world, Zoë is consistently striving to ensure output is detail-orientated by approaching every task with a strong work ethic, a passion to succeed, and the drive to surpass expectations, while maintaining her valued relationships with her brands and artists. To date one of her favourite work tasks is owning the internship program for the Digital Strategy team at UMC, to help educate and foster upcoming talent in the industry. In her spare time she enjoys spending time with her corgi, reading, finding the best under rated/ budget friendly red wines, and curating the perfect personal playlists for friends and loved ones

@badgalbadley

Music Licencing and Royalties / SOCAN Equity Task Force

Keziah Myers believes in the skills and uniqueness of this country, and knows that there is so much music and artistic talent yet to be discovered. Currently in a cross-collective role, Keziah works with both SOCAN and Re:Sound. Keziah’s main role is to educate media and non-media organizations about the importance of music licensing, and facilitate the initial process of getting songwriters their royalties. Keziah previously held the position of Operations Lead for the  

A&R team at SOCAN where she was instrumental in ensuring that hiring was reflective of the culture and creators. She updated systems, changed processes, and enabled international offices to better serve 150 000 members. Keziah has also held positions in Label Operations Management, Publicity, sat on Entertainment & Music Organization Boards, adjudicated as part of FACTOR and JUNO juries, and has been a guest presenter for Colleges and High schools in Toronto.  

As a part of a major music movement in Canada, Keziah has taken opportunities anytime they presented themselves. These opportunities have allowed her to be able to live on 3 continents, and travel to over 30 countries.

Senior Marketing Manager - Sony Music Canada

Currently holding the role of Senior Marketing Manager for Sony Music Canada, Carey Riley has recently conceived and facilitated marketing campaigns for such artists as Travis Scott, Khalid, Future, H.E.R., and 21 Savage. 

At Universal Music Canada, where she spent 8 years prior to returning to Sony, she oversaw a roster including Justin Bieber, Frank Ocean & Kanye West. With over 20 years of music industry experience, having also previously held the roles of National Street Marketing Representative and Artist Manager, Carey Riley has a wealth of knowledge in artist development, branding and advertising. She is an experienced music marketer with a demonstrated history. 

General Manager & HR - 604 Label Group

Kesi Smyth brings more than 15 years of experience to Canada’s music industry as General Manager for the 604 Label Group (604 Records, Light Organ Records, and Comedy Here Often?).

Most notably; Kesi was day to day manager for Carly Rae Jepsen during the peak of global hit “Call Me Maybe” organizing performances for the MuchMusic Video Awards, Billboard Music

Awards, American Music Awards, and much more. She has since ascended roles to oversee the label operations at 604 Records and the many clients it serves.

While handling day to day operations for the label group and its staff, Kesi brings extensive knowledge and experience to the role. She is responsible for overseeing effective marketing plans, tour and recording schedules, managing various creative projects, and working closely with third party managers, agents, and creative teams.

A&R Manager | Sony Music Canada

Craig Mannix is a 30-year music industry and lifestyle marketing veteran who has worked with a multitude of record labels over that time. As well as working with a number of established artists in the area of marketing and artist development, Mannix is currently Manager of A&R for Sony Music Entertainment Canada.

GM - Warner Chappell Music Canada

Vivian is the General Manager of Warner/Chappell Music Canada. She is a classically-trained musician with a degree in Radio & Television from Ryerson University. Experienced in radio, artist management, publicity, and promotion, she has composed music for television commercials and won awards for her film sound production and digital audio editing talents.

At Warner/Chappell, she works with a diverse roster of songwriters, including Jully Black, Producer Lantz, Maurice Moore, Machel Montano, Barenaked ladies, Patoranking, Begonia, The Bros Landreth and is also responsible for the administration of the over 200-year-old company’s global catalogue, which includes George and Ira Gershwin, Radiohead, Kendrick Lamar, Lizzo, Kacey Musgraves, Michael Bublé, Murda Beatz and PARTYNEXTDOOR. 

Vivian currently sits on the Boards of the Music Publishers Canada (MPC), ADVANCE, SOCAN, Phemphat Entertainment, producers of the HONEY JAM showcase and the Toronto Music Advisory Committee.

Vivian is also active in community development projects Habitat for Humanity and Food for the poor.

Entertainment Lawyer - Taylor Oballa Murray Leyland LLP

Miro is a founding partner of Taylor, Oballa, Murray, Leyland LLP.  He has been practicing entertainment law since 2002 in the areas of music, film, television, gaming, new media, literature and live events.

Miro has extensive experience in all areas of the music industry, including endorsement, recording, publishing, production, management, touring and personality rights. His expertise also extends to film and television in the areas of rights acquisition, rights management, talent representation, production and distribution, and to dispute resolution. 

 In his earlier life Miro was part owner of a nightclub and entertainment company.  He is currently the chair of the Polaris Music Prize board of directors and is also a director of The Canadian Live Music Association, The Canadian Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences, and Advance, Canada’s Black Music Business Collective.

President of the (NCRA/ANREC) National Community Radio Association - Randy Reid is an experienced broadcaster and experiential marketing engagement expert. He is a multi-national and provincial award winning DJ, publisher and content creator.

Currently he is the CEO and General Manager of the popular VIBE105 (105.5FM) Canada’s longest operating broadcaster dedicated to a majority Black/Afro-Caribbean content format. VIBE105 is managed by VX3 Exchange which is charitable agency that engages community by way of the creation and presentation of community-led media. www.vibe105to.com or www.vx3exchange.com   

Founder & CEO - INNOVATE INC™️

Known for her community engagement and entrepreneurial spirit, the intersections of Jessica’s experiences:

As a woman,

A second-generation Ghanaian-Canadian  

A team member of leading global organizations (including Nike, Nokia, Apple),

And as a leader with emerging start-ups,

Have led to her founding INNOV^TE INC.

INNOV^TE INC’s mission is to be the nexus of inclusive prosperity through entrepreneurship and technology. This is achieved by providing awareness and access to underrepresented communities.

Business Manager - Music By Numbers