On International Women’s Day 2017, in response to the shocking gender inequality across the electronic music industry, Smirnoff announced their ground-breaking, “Equalizing Music” initiative. Acknowledging the complexities of this deep-rooted issue, Smirnoff promised genuinely effective solutions, by working to a three-year strategy, a multi-million-pound budget and by enlisting talent and organizations who are recognized both for their credibility in electronic music, and for independently championing gender parity.
Today, Smirnoff put the words of their pledge into action, as they present the London leg of the Music Equalizing initiative; entitled “Women Shaping Tomorrow”. Held in association with international nightlife institution fabric, Smirnoff will host three days of free events at the iconic space in London – on May 2nd, 3rd and 4th – with contributions from Point Blank Music School and shesaid.so.
“Since Smirnoff pledged to double the number of women, transgender and non-binary DJ headliners by 2020, we have been working with some of the most forward-thinking people in electronic music to help make that a reality” said Leila Fataar, Head of Culture & Entertainment at Diageo. “Our Women Shaping Tomorrow workshops with fabric in London is one of the next steps in achieving that global ambition, by breaking down the barriers for women looking to enter the business. We realize that the whole industry needs to be shaken up across the board – in offices, in recording studios and most importantly, in the DJ booth itself.”
The Women Shaping Tomorrow sessions are designed to empower and break down barriers for women in electronic music. Incorporating practical workshops, inspirational talks and networking mixers, attendees will hear from a variety of well-known names across the industry. Although entirely free to attend, spaces are limited and applications can be made online here: fabriclondon.com/womenshapingtomorrow
“At fabric we pride ourselves on equality and are partnering with Smirnoff to increase the supply of women across all elements of nightlife culture” said Kirsti Weir, Communications & Project Manager at fabric. “From the DJ booth to the boardroom, our workshops at fabric will open doors for aspiring female talent looking to cross the gender divide.”
A select few attendees will be able to put what they’ve learned into immediate action, as they’ll be given unique, money-can’t-buy opportunities to DJ on a Smirnoff House UK festival stage this summer, shadow the fabric team at work, shadow Kate Simko’s Electric London Orchestra at Battersea Arts Centre on May 6th, and attend the International Music Summit in Ibiza from May 24th – 26th.
WOMEN SHAPING TOMORROW PROGRAMME
Tue 2nd May – The Nightlife Industry: Smashing the Glass Ceiling
Giving women in electronic music the tools they need to break into a male dominated industry and become the gatekeepers of tomorrow. Hosted by shesaid.so.
Wed 3rd May – DJ Skills: Becoming a Future Headliner
Inspiration, mentoring and practical advice for women looking to go from aspiring local talent, to headline DJ on the global stage. Hosted by shesaid.so.
Thu 4th May Music Production: From Dancefloors to Record Stores
A 360 masterclass enabling women in music production through creativity, promotion and performance skills. Hosted by Point Blank Music School.
FOR DETAILED PROGRAMME INFORMATION AND TO APPLY FOR ALL COURSES:
www.fabriclondon.com/womenshapingtomorrow
