This session spotlights three projects from the global youth music network that use music as a tool for access, empowerment and social change. In a short presentation format, organisers will share concrete examples from their local contexts, followed by a joint conversation and audience Q&A.
The featured projects show different ways of creating more inclusive and transformative music spaces: Girls in the Arts in Malawi, which combines creative training, mentorship and professional development for young women; GRL PWR Festivalen in Fredrikstad, which addresses gender imbalance in the local live music scene through concerts, workshops and industry events; and Chicas Amplificadas in Argentina, a self-managed and horizontal project creating spaces for girls, trans and non-binary people in music and the arts.
Together, these presentations offer practical inspiration for anyone interested in how youth music work can support participation, leadership and long-term change. Across different communities and contexts, the session highlights how local projects can challenge exclusion, build confidence and open new pathways into culture.
Speakers:
Angellah Zulanga is a cultural manager and currently Programmes Manager at Music Crossroads Malawi. She has extensive experience leading youth empowerment initiatives, arts programmes and international collaborations, with a strong focus on creating opportunities for young women in the creative sector.
Inés De Luca is an educator and specialist in inclusive education, gender studies and comprehensive sex education based in Buenos Aires. She is part of the coordination team of Chicas Amplificadas / Girls Rock Camp Argentina and serves on the board of the Girls Rock Camp Alliance.
Sara Heidenstrøm works at St. Croix in Fredrikstad (our host for the day), a creative community venue, where she books artists, develops events and courses, and leads marketing. She is also a board member of MØST and co-founder of GRL PWR Festivalen, a festival that highlights women artists and puts gender equality in the music industry on the agenda.
