Groundbreaking music initiative turns the spotlight on diverse female artists

AWMA recognises the contribution and value of First Nations and multicultural performers by acknowledging excellence in artistry and musicianship, technical and production skills, cross-cultural development, songwriting, music education, music photography, film making, management, humanitarian work, leadership and more.

AWMA is the brainchild of Founding Director and Sydney-based music producer Vicki Gordon. It was established to address the under-representation of Australian women artists on the radio, in festival line-ups, as award recipients and in the boardrooms of the Australian music industry by empowering women and recognising their value, achievements and contributions.

Ms Gordon said the partnership between AWMA and SSI was unique and that, through joint commitment and collaboration to the cause, AWMA and SSI had an incredible opportunity to cast the spotlight on talented women from culturally diverse backgrounds.

“The partnership provides an opportunity for first arrivals to engage in a supportive environment set up to empower disadvantaged women through music,” Ms Gordon said.

“AWMA provides opportunities for networking with First Nations and multi-cultural artists and music practitioners by creating a direct connection to the broader music industry sector.”

Australian Telstra Business Woman of the Year 2017 and SSI CEO Violet Roumeliotis said the partnership between AWMA and SSI created a platform where culturally diverse female artists could become recognised for their talents and contributions to the Australian music industry.

“The Diversity in Music Award aligns with SSI’s Arts and Culture vision of advancing cultural diversity and supporting newly arrived artists to participate and contribute to Australia’s multicultural arts and culture communities,” Ms Roumeliotis said.

“The collaboration between AWMA and SSI will support diverse communities in building artistic bridges and recognise the wonderful and varied talent that we have here in Australia, and that there really are great opportunities for all who want to contribute.”

Among the stellar list of artists endorsing AWMA as a groundbreaking initiative is former refugee and renowned hip-hop artist Kween G, who will be performing live at a launch event in Sydney on September 12.

Kween G sits on the AWMA Advisory Council and has been a long-time supporter and collaborator with SSI through its flagship Arts and Culture festival, New Beginnings. Kween G is an excellent example of the participation of women from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds in the Australian music industry.

The inaugural Australian Women in Music Awards (AWMA) will be staged in QLD at the Brisbane Powerhouse, October 9-10, 2018 2018. AWMA will present a series of free forums, a key note address by Kate Ceberano, a film screening, a photographic exhibition and unique networking opportunities.

Media enquiries:

SSI Communications Officer Rebeka Selmeczki;

E: rselmeczki@ssi.org.au

M: 0468 998 300