Axé WorldFest presents the third annual addition of their much anticipated conference. It brings together industry leaders to forge connections and spark new projects and ideas. This launch space is designed with Axé WorldFest’s mission in mind: to be global cultural connectors and make our worlds a little smaller and a little better through music, art, and people.

Through in-person and online panels, musical showcases, networking events, and after-parties, the Empowering Women in the Music Industry conference welcomes and lifts up all genders toward building inclusive spaces that are full of that Big Axé Energy!

What is Axé? It is our founding concept that comes from the Yoruba people; it signifies a positive life force and energy – bring yours to this spectacular conference. 

Schedule of events

1 pm – Doors open and registration
1:30 pm – Opening remarks

1:45 pm - 2:45 pm
Panel 1: Sustainability in Festival Programming  

• Juana Hermida, Lula Music and Arts / Toronto  
• Rachel Weldon, Debaser / Ottawa
• Kristyn Gelfand, Uma Nota Culture / Geary and Mixto Festival / Toronto
• Maude St-Amand Courcy Mundial Montreal 
• Mercedes Caxaj, TD Sunfest / London ON

3 pm - 4 pm
Panel 2: Women Leaders

• Robyn Stewart, ED of Women in Music Canada 
• Nicole Auger, International Indigenous Music Summit
• Heather Gibson, Executive Producer, Popular Music & Variety at the National Arts Centre
• Erin Benjamin, President & CEO of the Canadian Live Music Association (CLMA)
• Tamar Ilana, Co-founder/ Executive and Artistic Director of Fabcollab

7 pm – Showcase (tickets required)