Meet the 2023 Board Nominees
It’s that time of year - MMF Canada Board Elections!
We value and respect diverse points of view and are committed to being an organization that has a place for everyone across Canada working in music management. The board represents the membership and the management community and sets the direction of the organization and needs to reflect a diversity of voices and viewpoints.
As a national organization, representation from across the country is important, as well as people working in different genres, from all levels of experience, and from different backgrounds - including folks who have been historically and systemically excluded from these spaces. We also seek to have both managers and self-managed artists voices represented. Managers and artists who have additional experience that would be useful to overseeing the operations of a non-profit like legal, accounting, board governance, and fundraising would also be an asset.
On Tuesday, September 5, 2023, all current MMF Canada members will receive an email with a link to their personal election ballot.
NOTE: You need have an active Single or Company membership in order to vote. The Company membership voting link is emailed to the person who purchased the membership. Associate subscriptions do not have voting privileges.
Click here to become a member and have your say in the 2023 Board Election. If you have an Associate subscription and wish to upgrade to a Single or Company membership, please contact amie@mmfcanada.ca. The fee will be pro-rated for the rest of your subscription.
Learn about the current board.
Four seats are up for election this year. Directors remaining on the board are:
Jermayne Clayton (Awesome Productions & Management) Ontario
Gourmet Delice (Bonsound) Québec
Jill Snell (Jayward Artist Group) Ontario
Katrina Lopes (KL Management) Ontario
Leela Gilday (Self-managed Artist) Northwest Territories
Matt Maw (Red Music Rising) Ontario
Mira Silvers (FORT Entertainment) Québec
Piers Henwood (Amelia Artists) British Columbia
Read more about the 2023 board nominees below. Listed in alphabetic order by first name.
2023 Nominees
Alexander Wyder
British Columbia // Electronic, Folk, Pop, Rock
BIO: Alex has been working in the music industry since he was just 19 years old. First getting his start in the Vancouver scene, he partnered up with two friends to launch The Vancouver Music Review, a music website offering live reviews, interviews, and artist features. Less than a year later, he partnered with The Province newspaper to help develop their online entertainment blog, providing local music material. Having gotten a taste of the industry from his website, he then ventured into the field of artist management and services. Since 2013, he has built an impressive resume, having had experience working with several established and up-and-coming artists in various capacities. In 2018 he founded High Tide Artists, his own management company.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: I've thoroughly enjoyed working with the MMF team on export initiatives in the past year, and have had many years of experience now as a manager, and on export initiatives. I'm passionate about bringing managers together to foster community and growth. I would be thrilled to be considered for the board and help MMF grow!
Amélie Malissard
British Columbia // Electronic, Folk, Jazz, Rock, Experimental & avant-garde music
BIO: Amélie Malissard has fifteen years of experience managing projects, in the experimental music scenes, and beyond. She believes in building strong community roots, removing barriers, and creating space for all artists, audiences and dreamers. In 2020, she founded act·art·mgt, a management agency for independent & experimental musicians with an " à-la-carte approach" designed to accommodate all projects. Clients can choose from a wide range of services: career & project management, production & logistics, administration, promotion, grant writing, and more. act·art·mgt’s activities focus on investing in Canadian talent, creating new connections and networks, as well as expanding the Francophone network for experimental music in Canada. The agency offers sliding scale fees to artists, ensuring accessibility and removing financial barriers to professional assistance. It researches, develops, and implements new management models that are sustainable in the context of non-commercial & underserved music scenes. She worked as Logistics & Promotion Coordinator for the Suoni Per Il Popolo Festival and Casa del Popolo / La Sala Rossa venues & bars-restaurants (Montreal, 2016-2019). She was a Founding Member of the Lux Magna Festival (2017-2019) and part of the Noisundaeee Collective in Montreal (2017-2019). In 2023, she was selected for and completed the “Women In Music Canada” Entrepreneur Accelerator Program. Before moving to Canada in 2016, Amélie was an international policy expert and worked for the French government. She holds a Specialized Masters degree in Creative and Cultural Industries Management from the Burgundy School of Business (2016), a Master’s Degree in Public Affairs from Sciences Po Paris (2008) and two Bachelor’s Degrees in History and Classics from Universities Paris I Panthéon-Sorbonne and Paris IV Sorbonne (2005/2006). https://actartmgt.ca/
NOMINEE STATEMENT: As a manager working with independent and avant-garde musicians, I am well aware of the beauty of the music created in Canada, and of the struggles faced by musicians and their support staff. My top 3 priorities as a Director for the MMF Board would be:
1. To amplify important voices in the Canadian music industry, especially in the non-commercial scenes. The industry is going through rapid economic and dissemination changes (AI, digital, streaming, video, touring, etc.). Artists and managers need to defend shared values and support each other. I am a white cis woman, and I have lived my whole life with many privileges; but I have focused my career on building strong community roots and on removing barrieres to support a diverse Canadian music scene.
2. To address the needs of francophone musicians in anglophone provinces. As a francophone working in BC, part of my work has been focused on developing the support available to French artists outside of QC.
3. To support a Canadian scene that is looking outward to share its creativity and be inspired by other influences. Being born in Europe,
I have deep ties with European artists and presenters; but I have also built a strong network in the North American avant-garde scenes, and beyond. I have extensive experience working for and with non-profit organizations. I have served on two Boards (VIAS 2019-2022 and Barking Sphinx Performance Society since 2022).
I sincerely think that my work has supported, empowered and fostered the career of many artists, especially emerging and independent musicians. I strongly believe MMF Canada would benefit from having a francophone Director with an insight on Canada’s more experimental music scenes, and I would be very excited to contribute to the important work that MMF Canada is doing.
Ceyion King
Ontario // Electronic, Hip-Hop, Pop, Reggae
BIO: Ceyion (pronounced ‘SEE-ON’), is a Canadian Hip-Hop Artist, Rapper, Singer/Songwriter, Record Producer & Self Managed Music Entrepreneur from Toronto, Canada. In a time where Hip-Hop artists are stylistically compelled to sound the same, Ceyion's creativity and imagination shine through his music. With a nostalgic feel & relevant sound, Ceyion's music is mainstream and yet his foundations of Hip-Hop, Rap, Reggae, R&B and Dance are clearly expressed through his tonality, unique style, delivery & lyrical content. Ceyion has completed 4 Eps/Mixtapes, 4 Full length projects, multiple singles and has performed on Festival stages like NXNE, he won Toronto’s Coast to Coast Live’s Rap Contest, his music has been synced on Television shows like Diggstown & he has been placed in digital campaigns for the Toronto Raptors, Raptors Uprising & NBA 2K; having garnered radio play on stations locally and across the world as a Solo Artist. Ceyion started out performing as a youth in the Toronto Gospel world opening for acts like Fred Hammond, Hezekiah Walker, TMC and many others. As a teen, he was discovered by Legendary Toronto MC, Baby Blue Soundcrew's Kid Kut as a Rapper & Songwriter with Hip-Hop Groups Shadow Mobb, Full House & First Class before finally deciding to go solo in 2017. Most recently, in 2023 Ceyion has released 4 new singles (‘Manifest' & 'Jordan' the most recent), He was one of MMF's Keynote Speakers on Self Management for this year's Small World Music cohort, through his Building Bridges Foundation that focuses on educating the next generation of Black Musicians is in year 2 and he is actively teaching Peel Schools students the fundamentals of Hip-Hop Music + Culture; while also speaking on panels and providing leadership in the community. Ceyion continues to secure sync placements for his catalog & others, he is producing & consulting multiple artists and producers in the city, all while preparing the release of his next project 'Ceyion - Life is Beautiful' slated to release in 2023. Needless to say Ceyion has made it his goal to ensure that he is spreading his message to be yourself and live unapologetically with audiences of all age, race, sex & creed around the world through both his actions and his music.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: As a Black, vibrant, intelligent, active and experienced self-managed artist, I represent all of the core values of MMF and what music leaderships in Canada needs more of in 2023: Diversity. I would make a great addition to the board of directors as I represent a voice that for some odd reason continues to be minimized in Canadian Music executive spaces; More Black Music Leaders. Black Music from Hip-Hop, R&B, Afro-Beats, Reggae and all the music that continues to benefit from our sounds (Reggaeton, Rock, Country & Pop to name a few) need more people in position that are from the culture, for the culture to help influence the music business and that is why I have decided to elect myself. Please consider, Ceyion A King.
Cormac McGee
Ontario // Folk, Pop, Rock
BIO: Cormac McGee has worked as a manager since 2016, working with artists across rock, pop, hip hop and folk genres. As current Director of Management at ArtHaus Music, he works with seven-time JUNO Award winner Serena Ryder and platinum-selling rock artist TALK. Cormac also helps lead the ArtHaus Community not for profit and its Art of Growth program: a holistic educational series supporting the development of young artists and entrepreneurs that has worked with over 300 creatives across Canada. Prior to joining ArtHaus, Cormac led the Music Den incubator for music-technology entrepreneurs at Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson). At the Music Den, Cormac recruited and coached startup companies such as digital A&R tool Sodatone (acquired by Warner Music Group) and developed partnerships with international accelerators including Abbey Road Red (London), Universal Music Digital & Innovation (Los Angeles), and Music Innovation Hub (Milan).
NOMINEE STATEMENT: As someone who has worked at the cross-section of music and education throughout my career, I am inspired by the MMF’s mission to be the go-to resource for Canadian managers and artists on issues related to music management in Canada and around the world. I have personally engaged with several MMF resources and programs, including the Publishing Masterclass, ECMA Mentorship program, and comprehensive guide to funding bodies and industry organizations.
These resources have been invaluable to my career, and I am passionate about expanding MMF programming and member base into new and emerging musical communities across Canada. I believe ArtHaus’ Art of Growth programs can provide a valuable funnel of young managers and self-managed artists who will be the next generation of MMF members.
I am also excited to further my professional development through this role, learning about board governance and how to be a valuable, engaged member, as well as operating as a trade organization within an international network of collaborators.
Derrick Sturge
Newfoundland and Labrador // Folk, Pop, Country
BIO: Derrick Sturge is the owner of St. John’s, NL-based Pharos Music Inc. Derrick is a graduate of the Music Business program at The Berklee College of Music in Boston, holds the Chartered Accountant (CA) and Chartered Professional Accountant (CPA) designations. Derrick has been a drummer for many years and has experience recording and playing live. Through Pharos Music, Derrick provides artist management, business, and record label services to a diverse group of independent artists primarily in the country, country-pop, and folk genres.
Derrick was nominated by Music NL in 2022 for “Industry Professional of The Year” and “Company of The Year”. In 2023 Derrick was nominated by the ECMA for “Artist Management of The Year”.
Derrick brings experience in the music industry, financial expertise, and corporate governance experience.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: My name is Derrick Sturge. I live in St. John’s, NL where I own Pharos Music Inc, providing artist management and label services to a diverse group of independent artists, primarily in the country, country-pop, and folk genres. I am proud that my client base represents a diverse cross section of artists.
In addition to having a good understanding of the music industry, I am also a Chartered Accountant and CPA with many years of experience on Boards of Directors and in Corporate Governance.
Working with independent artists and helping them navigate through the music industry is my passion. As an independent artist manager, I place great value in the work and resources provided by MMF Canada. I would love the opportunity to combine my experience in the music industry and in the business world to benefit the objectives of the Music Managers Forum of Canada.
Elise Roller
Manitoba // Folk, Hip-Hop, Pop
BIO: Elise Roller, the Women in Music Canada Entrepreneur of the Year and Manitoba’s recipient of the Kevin Walters Legacy Award in 2023, is founder, CEO, and artist manager at Misfit Music Inc. The Misfit management roster includes artists Leonard Sumner, Sierra Noble, and Super Duty Tough Work while Misfit’s innovative Artist Evolution program serves hard-working artists who require team support offering holistic mentorship, strategic planning, and equipping music creators with the confidence, skills, and tools needed to manage their own careers. Roller has been actively involved in the global music scene since 2008 experiencing many roles as a singer/songwriter, member of touring bands, tour manager, stage manager, talent buyer at Pride Winnipeg, and as the Industry Development Coordinator at Manitoba Music.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: As the CEO of Winnipeg-based artist management and development company, primarily focused on amplifying the reach of artists across Western Canada, I have a broad scope of the vibrant music scene within the region and its unique challenges for artists and music entrepreneurs. My values are in representing music with a message and supporting inclusivity, diversity, equity, and accessibility, advocating for filling the gaps that are still very apparent within the Canadian music industry.
Emily Gryba
Alberta // Pop, Indie Pop
BIO: Emily, a project manager at Watchdog Management in Vancouver BC while residing in Alberta, oversees emerging artists on the roster, notably including BC based Jade LeMac and LA-based Winnetka Bowling League, fronted by Matthew Koma. with over a decade of music industry experience, Emily holds a Bachelor of Music from MacEwan University. During her undergrad, she actively contributed to Bent River Records, the university's label, refining her skills in the A&R domain. An internship at Nashville's acclaimed Girlilla Marketing further enriched her profile, involving her in prominent projects with country music luminaries such as Tim McGraw and Toby Keith.
Her early career saw her manage local bands as a freelancer, as well as immersing herself in stage management and festival volunteering. Emily's musical passion propels her devotion to artist development on both creative and conceptual fronts, with an international outlook. Beyond music, she champions young executives' involvement, ensuring their voices resonate across the industry. Emily stands as a multifaceted professional, synergizing expertise and enthusiasm to drive noteworthy advancements in the music domain.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: As a project manager at Watchdog Management, my role in developing artists such as Jade LeMac and Winnetka Bowling League attests to my adeptness in nurturing talent and navigating industry dynamics from indie projects to major label projects. From contributing to a university record label, to collaborating with renowned entities like Girlilla Marketing, to my academic background and role I currently hold, I possess a comprehensive understanding of industry nuances. My dual role as a creative and musician uniquely equips me to comprehend the artistic aspects of management. Moreover, my advocacy for inclusivity, particularly amplifying the voices of young executives, ensures diverse and dynamic discussions within the forum. My broad expertise, combined with a fervent passion for cultivating talent, positions me to lead dialogues, share valuable insights, and inspire emerging music managers effectively.
Jesse Northey
Ontario // Folk, Rock, Alternative
BIO: Jesse Northey is a graduate of the University of Lethbridge (Bachelor of Music -Digital Audio Arts, and spent the first decade of his career living and working in Alberta as an audio engineer, musician, grant writer, and program manager for Alberta Music. From there he moved to Toronto to pursue artist management including working at Six Shooter Records as an artist management associate before starting his own company Victory Pool.
Northey has maintained a parallel music career behind the curtains of the music world. His work as an engineer and producer has afforded him plenty of time to hone his studio skills, and his place on the High Priestess Publishing roster as a songwriter. He recently toured Japan with his band and engages the local community through performance.
In 2020 Jesse established Victory Pool, a record label and management company is helping to shepherd an impressive variety of acts such as Witch Prophet, The Deep Dark Woods, Moonriivr, Ghostkeeper, Ellen Froese Ombiigizi, and more. Jesse is passionate about music industry processes, governance, policy, and creating environments that allow musicians to thrive and focus on their craft. Jesse has attended export missions such as Reeperbahn, Focus Wales, The Great Escape, Americanafest, and SXSW as a delegate and is dedicated to building export opportunities for Canadian artists.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: I would love to be a part of the Music Managers Forum board. I've previously struggled to find music industry community in the past when I lived in western Canada, and I'm passionate about connecting with seasoned managers and aspiring managers with resources and community in order to support them in their career. I want to see MMF set standards and share infrastructure building resources to help a range of Canadian managers succeed no matter what level they are at in their career or where they live. I love sharing information and building infrastructure that we can all use.
I’ve been gracious to receive music mentorship through my work at Alberta Music, and Six Shooter Records and I would like to return that knowledge to the MMF members while also learning from those more established than myself.
Victory Pool has been in operation for 3 years, and my fresh perspective working with a range of developing acts will be valuable to the general artist management community in addition to my time as a musician and audio engineer. Thank you for considering me!
Jessica Symonds
Nova Scotia // Hip-Hop, R&B
BIO: Jessica Symonds, (Halifax, NS.) has formed key values focused on community, a passion for diversity and equality, and breaking societal limits and barriers within the music industry. Jessica works in the management field and is currently working alongside multiple organizations. She is currently representing Yohvn Blvck (Artist in Residence Finalist 2022) and has provided volunteer artist services for numerous artists within the city, such as consultations, grant writing, etc. Recently, she has been focusing on professional development and experience building to her portfolio, to help her bring new assets to her teams, motivated to grow alongside them. Notably, she was a graduate in this year's Women in Music Canada Entrepreneurial Accelerator program, and was selected to participate as a MMF delegate in this years UK export, where she represented Yohvn in the Focus Wales and The Great escape festivals.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: I feel I would be a good candidate mostly for my passion for helping others. As an artist manager, fair representation is critical to me. Taking on a more personal approach, I really take the time to get to know and understand my artist, their stories, passions, and motivations. Doing this allows me a deeper connection to the artist themselves so that I can help them in a way that caters to them specifically. Being a person from multiple marginalized communities, I have a special insight into how important fair and equal representation and resources are, and how much less accessible they can be to marginalized communities, who often are left unheard. These voices are deeply valuable for change, equality and growth of our industry. Motivated to learn and grow, I am in a space where I am eager to take on new opportunities to build experience and knowledge so that I can apply not only to my career, but to the artists and communities around me. I feel education is power in this industry, making this more accessible to youth, and marginalized communities encourages and directly benefits these communities and the whole industry as a whole, influences positive change. With all of these ideals in mind, I feel I can be an asset and offer a unique prospective to the board.
Kayla Borden
Nova Scotia // Hip-Hop, Reggae, R&B, Afrobeat, World Music
BIO: DJ Tranzish(ə)n, also known as, Kayla Borden is a multihyphenate, African Nova Scotian/Jamaican Maroon Descendent based in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. She honors her heritage and ancestry through all of her community work. Kayla has managed Halifax local HipHop artist "RealEyez", Emerging artists from the Congo "Advocates of Truth" and worked with the late. reggae/world musician Gideon Rogers from Gideon Sungala. Kayla is currently on the programming committee for the 2024 Juno Awards in Halifax and is currently stepping in the role as a the program lead at the African Nova Scotian Music Association. She has served as a juror for FACTOR, StART Festival, Music Nova Scotia, Halifax Nocturne Festival and the Everyseeker Festival. Kayla was the Outreach Coordinator for both Prismatic Arts Festival and served as the very first African Nova Scotian Outreach Coordinator for Music Nova Scotia in 2018. As Creative Director and Producer for StART Festival for many years she worked closely with community partners, like The Bus Stop Theatre and the North End Business Association. She has been consulted by the African Nova Scotia Music Association and the Halifax Black Film Festival to build community outreach strategies. She's been a talent scout for the Charles Taylor Theatre & Media and the Jamaican Cultural Association of Nova Scotia. She is co-owner of Pineapple Express Media a music company that archives, celebrates and showcases melanated talent from East Coast Canada and Ontario. Kayla believes in the power of representation, creativity, advocacy and empowerment; a motto she lives by is "the Sky is NOT the limit, because beyond it is so much space.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: Being apart of different organizations that aligns with the work I do allows me to see what is going on in other spaces and how I can help contribute by sharing my own ideas and experiences and helping work towards solutions that also bring awareness and share resources with Melanated artists across the nation.
Laurie Lee Boutet
Ontario // Pop, Rock
BIO: Having moved to London, UK at the age of 18, Laurie Lee started off her career in the music industry writing a music blog featuring local artists, A&R recommendations and must see shows of the week. This led to a position as an A&R Scout for Virgin/EMI Records, and eventually brought her home back to Canada where she worked in A&R at Universal Music Canada.
For the past seven years, Laurie Lee has been busy building Wednesday Management, home to emerging Canadian artists such as The Beaches, Venbee, Alex Porat, Ralph & Connor Seidel.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: Hi! I think I'd be a great director because I'm right in between old school and new school ideologies, understanding both sides. I truly believe that artist managers are the backbone of the music industry, and with the right support we can have the most impact the music industry.
Manuela Wuthrich
Alberta // Pop, R&B
BIO: Manuela Wuthrich is professionally known as the self-managed 3x JUNO-Award nominated Nuela Charles, an alternative/pop singer-songwriter with a soulful edge. Born in Kenya, raised in Switzerland, Canada and the Bahamas before settling back in Canada, Charles’ music is infused with her multicultural upbringing. With 5 studio projects released to critical acclaim, multiple award wins, and even more nominations, Charles released her self-titled 6th studio project, Nuela Charles in September 2022. Her music has been streamed collectively over 6 million times and can be heard on the hit show Jane the Virgin, Netflix’s Tiny Pretty Things, and much more. In 2022 Nuela was awarded both the SOCAN Foundation HER Award Grand Prize and the Western Canadian Music Award for Pop Artist of the Year and Nuela’s single “Heavy” was named one of Canada’s Top 100 songs of 2022.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: Known as Nuela Charles, I have been an independent artist for 13+ years. During this time, I have had to deal with the notion of “we don’t know what to do with you,” over and over again. As a person of colour, striving to blend singer-songwriter, pop, and soul music – I’ve been an anomaly, and as a result have had to navigate the industry largely on my own, and have done so successfully. As a board member candidate, I'm dedicated to promoting equity and opportunities for BIPOC individuals. My vision embraces inclusivity, diversity, and empowerment. I'll advocate for resources, education and funding for BIPOC industry members, fostering an inclusive environment and driving systemic change. Let's continue to build towards an inclusive music industry, where all emerging talents are supported by an equitable industry who understand them and have the capacity to support them, so that we may all thrive equally. I'm committed to forever erasing the notion of "I don't know what to do with you.”
Michael Gorman
Ontario // Pop
BIO: Forward-thinking and accomplished Artist Manager and Entrepreneur, Michael Gorman offers a wealth of knowledge and expertise of the music and cultural industries honed in on diversity and inclusion and 2SLGBTQ+ & BIPOC rights. With 20 years management experience he demonstrates a successful history of music prize accomplishments. Seven years experience sitting on Music Management Forum Canada (MMF) Board of Directors as Treasurer and Executive Director. Experience managing small but mighty driven teams as well as being a part of large collaborative International groups. Creative and outgoing ambassador and advocate for the arts that oversees all aspects of artist careers including team building, fundraising, sponsorships, touring, deal negotiations. Offers extensive network of professionals with connections globally. Business-savvy and quick thinker with strong negotiation skills. An artist with a Performing Arts Degree from Humber College.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: As an active member of the 2SLGBTQ+ community and with over 7 years experience on the MMF Canada Board of Directors, I am seeking re-election to continue on with the incredible work done by this not-for-profit organization. I bring years of management experience as well as experience managing budgets and committees for the MMF Canada.
Ryan Gullen
Ontario // Rock
BIO: Ryan Gullen is a Canadian Musician, Music Manager, and Creator.
As both the Bassist and Manager for The Sheepdogs, he's achieved numerous Platinum and Gold certifications, as well as received 11 Juno nominations, winning 4. Through the diverse insights acquired through his roles as both artist and manager, Ryan founded Velvet Antler MGMT. This endeavour reflects his commitment to channeling these rich experiences, guiding fellow artists and managers towards realizing their ambitions with attention to their unique goals. Beyond his music industry accomplishments, Ryan's passion for collaboration and innovation has led him to various creative pursuits, establishing him as a respected figure in both music and broader artistic spheres.
This journey has included setting up his own production company, and contributing to leading roles as a Director and Producer on numerous projects, including a feature-length documentary.
Ryan served on the SaskMusic Board of Directors from 2011 to 2016, taking on the role of Vice President.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: After nearly 20 years in the music industry, both as an Artist and a Manager, my hope is to provide insights into both of these roles as a continued asset to the board. This includes not only drawing on past experiences, but also contributing as shifts happen in the music industry's ever changing future. I aspire to join the board so that I can help to contribute positively towards our country’s music industry, and continue to make it a space that is both industrious, but increasingly more fair to all those involved.
Having also served on the board of directors at SaskMusic for 5 years, in roles as both a Director and Vice-President, I'm familiar with the balance needed to make a board function effectively and harmoniously. I hope this experience could also benefit MMF, if I was to become a member of its board. Thank you for your consideration.
Safwan Javed
Ontario // Blues, Rock
BIO: In 1995, Safwan co-founded the band, “Wide Mouth Mason.” The band has since released seven studio albums and one live audiovisual album, garnering numerous hit singles, gold records, and Juno-nominations. They are releasing their eighth studio album in September of 2023.
Wide Mouth Mason has toured across the globe, including opening for The Rolling Stones, AC/DC, ZZ Top, The Guess Who, and George Thorogood, and twice performing at the prestigious Montreux Jazz Festival.
Safwan has been managing Wide Mouth Mason since 2005.
Safwan Javed is also a partner at the entertainment law firm, Taylor Oballa Murray Leyland LLP. He began his law practice in 2009. His clients include musicians, songwriters, music labels, music publishers, managers, producers, mixers, authors, book publishers, influencers, artists, and entrepreneurs.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: I've been working in the music business for 28 years in various capacities (artist, manager, advocate, lawyer). As such, I have a wealth of experience with respect to the twists and turns of our industry.
I've also been fortunate to be a board member for many organizations, including SOCAN, SOCAN Foundation, Songwriters Association of Canada (for which I'm currently a board member), Fair Trade Music International (for which I'm currently the President), Canada's Music Incubator (for which I'm currently a board member), and Art Starts. As such, I have a strong background in the governance of boards and organizations such as MMF Canada.
Savannah Wellman
British Columbia // Folk, Hip-Hop, Pop, Rock
BIO: Savannah’s experiences in the music industry have seen her on both sides of the curtain. Her journey has included a degree in music, followed by years of performing and touring in various bands, and continued at Music BC as program manager for artist development initiatives for over 7 years. Along with co-founder Meagan Davidson, Savannah launched Tiny Kingdom in 2017 as an artist management and services company, representing clients including Skye Wallace, Haley Blais, Teon Gibbs and Jasper Sloan Yip. Their expansion into a label in 2020 saw Tiny Kingdom added to a very short list of female-owned labels in Canada, and their passion for supporting other women and gender minorities lead them to spearhead the Women In Music - BC chapter. Savannah's musical and industry knowledge has been called upon as a panelist, consultant, juror, and board member for the MMF (Music Managers Forum Canada) and Women in Music Canada.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: I have been proud to serve on the MMF board since 2019. Since then the organization has gone through significant growth and changes, setting and achieving goals for expanding our reach and programing, and diversifying our board as well as our membership base. However, there is always more progress to be made in these areas, and I would love to be a part of the collective voice that continues to push these mandates forward.
As the chair of the governance committee and filling the Secretary role on the executive committee, I have a strong understanding of board policies, and aim to make communication and governance as smooth and inclusive as possible. I’d be honoured to continue to bring my knowledge and time to the board for another term!
TiKA Simone
Ontario // Soul/R&B/Experimental
BIO: TIKA is a multi-disciplinary artist, singer, academy award-winning songwriter, film composer, actress, artistic director, educator, voiceover artist, cultural curator, and energy healer. TIKA makes a lasting impression on everyone she encounters and is a strong advocate for female & LGTBQIA+ musicians, artists and creatives. TIKA added film scoring to her repertoire in 2019 after going to the Canadian Film Centre in 2021. To date she has scored 8 short films, 4 cartoon series, 4 feature films and is the 2022 Canadian Academy Award Winner for best original song in the film “Learn To Swim.”
NOMINEE STATEMENT: I am probably one of the only Black Women to go from a corporate to a creative field successfully. The gift of duality and the gift of being able to speak to both sides of the coin is a necessary talent that deserves to be shared.
Tim Des Islets
Ontario // Folk, Rock
BIO: Tim Des Islets is the founder of Canadian artist management company Noisemaker Management and live events company Noisemaker Presents Inc. Known for its trusting relationship with artists, colleaugues, and fans, Noisemaker has helped develop artists into Canadian music canon and ensured their artists continue to reach new audiences around the world.
Noisemaker manages an award-winning roster of artists that includes Great Lake Swimmers, The East Pointers, Good Lovelies, The Once, Splash’N Boots, and Gord Sinclair from The Tragically Hip. Noisemaker Management has enjoyed a busy year with major releases from four of it’s artists, two JUNO Award nominations for Splash’N Boots and The East Pointers, three East Coast Music Awards for The East Pointers, and was nominated for Manager of the Year at the 2023 Canadian Live Music Industry Awards.
Tim Des Islets has served on the Board of the Canadian Independent Music Association (CIMA) and Folk Music Ontario.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: As someone who has worked in artist management for over 15 years, been a self-employed artist manager at Noisemaker Management for eight years, and worked as a concert promoter for over five years, I have a unique perspective on the needs of managers and the resources required to allow them to develop and support their artists.
The role of artist manager is essential to the growth and development of the Canadian music industry. I would like to join the MMF Canada Board to help serve managers and self-managed artists of all levels, advocate for the profession of artist management, provide education and networking opportunities, and develop sustainable and healthy resources and opportunities for the industry.
I am excited to work closely with the MMF, work to make artist management an inclusive space, guide managers and artists to resources for mental health, career planning, and job security, and be a voice on behalf of all managers and self-managed artists. Thank you!