Meet the 2024 Board Nominees
The MMF Canada Board is comprised of twelve Canadian music managers who are active in the Canadian music industry. They lead the work that brings to life the organization’s strategic priorities and help to ensure that MMF Canada is THE voice of those working in music management in Canada.
We seek directors from all areas of our membership, including managers and self-managed artists of all experience levels, from across the country.
Our goal is to have a Board of Directors that truly represents our diverse industry, including those that are typically under-represented, such as directors who are Black, Indigenous, racialized, 2SLGBTQIA+ identifying, women, or gender diverse as well as folks who have experience that would be useful to overseeing the operations of a non-profit like legal, accounting, board governance, and fundraising.
This year, we had an unprecedented number of applicants. Based on the representation and skill sets required to round out the board and best serve our membership, the nominations committee worked to curate the slate to the fifteen candidates listed below listed in alphabetical order by first name. There are four seats up for election. Learn about the current board members here.
Thank you to everyone who showed interest in serving as a director and to all of the members for voting.
Secure, individual voting links were sent to all members on August 22, 2024.
VOTING DEADLINE IS SEPTEMBER 5, 2024 at 5:00 pm ET.
For those keen to get involved, keep an eye on our newsletter and social media for committee call-outs, where we invite MMF Canada members outside of the board to join committees specific to their experience and interests.
2024 Nominees
Alexandra Idiart-Benavides
Quebec // Jazz, Pop, R&B (Soul, NeoSoul)
BIO: Alexandra is the co-founder of The Vault, a record label, artist management company and music services agency operating in North America via Montreal & in Europe via Paris, and representing artists like JaRon Marshall (Black Pumas) and Hansom Ēli. Alexandra’s 10+ years in the music industry started working as a radio host, in music programming and marketing, followed by 5 years developing the North-American market for French companies, Tôt Ou tard / Zouave Spectacles and Wagram Stories, respectively. Since 2022, The Vault collaborates with events, as much in the production of festivals and conventions, as in their content programming (curation of conferences, panels and extending exclusive invitations to international music professionals), like M for Montreal, Cannes Lions, Lune Rouge and more. Alexandra has been a CARAS Academy Delegate for a few years and is frequently called upon as a juror for the JUNO Awards and FACTOR. She's also a member of MMF UK.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: Throughout my career, I have cultivated a deep understanding of effective governance and strategic decision-making. My experience includes managing artists and music projects for different stakeholders, via mandates at radio stations, festivals and for record labels, which have equipped me with a strong foundation in both leadership and collaboration. I am passionate about advancing community initiatives in the arts and culture, enhancing organizational efficiency, and I am committed to making a meaningful impact through thoughtful, proactive engagement.
Allison Outhit
Nova Scotia // Folk (Roots, Americana, Singer-Songwriter, Folk-Rock), Jazz, Rap (Hip Hop, Trap, Alternative hip hop), R&B (Soul, NeoSoul)
BIO: Allison Outhit is a former artist and TV/film executive with deep music industry experience via executive roles at Outside Music, FACTOR, Six Shooter Records, Ishkōdé Records and others. She is bilingual in French, holds an LL.B, and is a Canadian Certified Inclusion Practitioner (CCIP) and activist for equity in the cultural industries. She now lives in Nova Scotia where she manages the artist Aquakultre and provides strategic planning and business affairs consultation on a freelance basis.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: I have a good deal of knowledge and experience to share regarding the music industry, corporate and NP governance, cultural policy, international business development, finance and business affairs. I'm particularly interested in pushing for greater empowerment and more meaningful representation of artists at the tables of cultural policy, funding, and industry governance, and I believe that MMF can be an even stronger vehicle for artist advocacy, in particular for artists from marginalized communities.
Ashley Bieniarz
Manitoba // Folk (Roots, Americana, Singer-Songwriter, Folk-Rock), Jazz, Rap (Hip Hop, Trap, Alternative hip hop), R&B (Soul, NeoSoul)
BIO: Ashley Bieniarz, known artistically as KWIAT, is a Métis and Polish avant-pop artist from Winnipeg, Manitoba. With over a decade of experience as a vocalist, pianist, songwriter, and producer, Ashley has made significant contributions to the Canadian music industry. She has performed at prominent festivals (TD International Winnipeg Jazz Festival, Pride Winnipeg, Festival du Voyageur) and held key roles such as Indigenous Music Export Coordinator for Manitoba Music and Artistic Director for St. Norbert Art Centre’s RiseUp Mentorship and GerryFest program. Ashley's dedication to mentorship and community involvement is evident through her work with Songsmiths Canada, organizing songwriting camps and performance events. Her accolades include the Women in Music Inaugural Honour Roll Award. KWIAT captivates audiences with her unique blend of pop, showtunes, and classical influences, creating music that transcends conventional boundaries. Inspired by artists like Fiona Apple and Japanese Breakfast, her work is drama-driven, emotionally gripping, and thought-provoking, encouraging listeners to embrace their creative fire.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: I am running for the MMF Board of Directors to bring my extensive experience and passion for the Canadian music industry to the forefront. With a career spanning over a decade, I have honed my skills in program administration, event coordination, and artist mentorship. My work with Indigenous music and underrepresented art programs, alongside artist development initiatives and my personal experience as a self-managed artist, has equipped me with the ability to connect with diverse communities and advocate for their needs. I stay attuned to the current issues and trends that artists navigate in their careers. As a director, I will focus on strengthening business operations, enhancing professional development opportunities, and fostering a supportive network for music managers and self-managed artists. I am committed to supporting MMF Canada’s mission and ensuring members have the resources and advocacy they need to thrive.
Carlos Pineda
Ontario // Folk (Roots, Americana, Singer-Songwriter, Folk-Rock), Latin, Rap (Hip Hop, Trap, Alternative hip hop), R&B (Soul, NeoSoul)
BIO: Carlos Pineda is a Canadian Latino business-driven music executive and manager to the most sought after artists, producers and songwriters worldwide. He's the Founder and President MCMXVI INC.
Carlos spearheads the talent incubator’s Canadian sector, working with various rappers, artists, producers and songwriters such as Kardinal Offishall, Haviah Mighty, KTOE, BEDRM who have all created hit records with artists such as Drake, Megan Thee Stallion, Jack Harlow, NBA Youngboy, Daniel Caesar, Pooh Shiesty, Smiley and more.
He’s also worked with 2x Juno nominated R&B sensation Emanuel, who was co-signed by actor Idris Elba and signed to a joint venture with Universal Music Canada and Motown Records. He also continues to work with multi instrumentalist John Fellner who is responsible for crafting the unique sound of Motown signee Emanuel and has now signed a record deal with Slaight Music. He also worked with G6 who co wrote ‘Up’ by Cardi B that hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100.
Earlier in his career Carlos managed Canadian singer/songwriter Alx Veliz (Island Records X Universal Music), international female DJ Unimerce, and Canadian legend Kardinal Offishall (Global A&R at Def Jam Records and Judge on Canada’s Got Talent) whom to this day he still partners alongside with in music.
Carlos is well vetted within the music and entertainment space and his ventures expand beyond the music realm. He was a partner in one of Toronto’s trendiest hot spots, Regulars Bar, a pop culture staple and King Street locale that attracts A-list visitors. He’s an early investor in companies like Rekt Global, an e-sports conglomerate backed by some of the biggest names in sports, as well as Ledn, a bitcoin backed digital asset lending company. At age 33, Carlos is a prospering mogul in his respected industries and his ventures continue to develop his lucrative presence in those realms.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: Providing a different perspective from all my experience in the music industry.
Dwyane Marcial
New Brunswick // Gospel, Pop, Rap (Hip Hop, Trap, Alternative hip hop), R&B (Soul, NeoSoul)
BIO: Dwayne Marcial is a talented artist manager at Musik Iz The Motive Entertainment, located in Saint John, NB. With a wealth of experience in the music industry, Dwayne is an expert in various areas, including management, promotion and marketing, sync placements, talent bookings, and artist development. His skills and expertise have earned him numerous awards and accolades for the artists he has represented over his career. Dwayne is a proud graduate of NBCC, having completed both the Radio Studies program and TV & Video Production program. He has an extensive background working in both fields, having worked in all departments in radio and for companies such as Stingray, MBS, Bell, and Pattison. In tv and film, he has worked at NBC Studios, Rogers TV, and on classic indie films like Blue Hill Avenue
NOMINEE STATEMENT: As a seasoned professional with extensive experience in the music industry, I am passionate about fostering a supportive and innovative environment for music managers and self managed artists across Canada. Running for the Board of Directors of the Music Managers Forum of Canada is a natural extension of my commitment to elevating our industry. I believe in empowering managers and self managed artists with the tools and resources needed to thrive in a rapidly changing landscape. "Together, we can drive meaningful progress and shape the future of our industry.
Evan Newman
Nova Scotia // Folk (Roots, Americana, Singer-Songwriter, Folk-Rock), Jazz, Pop, Rock
BIO: Evan Newman is the Managing Director of Outside Music overseeing the in house label as well as sister label Next Door Records and the Outside Music Management roster. He’s also the lead faculty of the Music Business Program at NSCC in Dartmouth, Nova Scotia. He was recently nominated for 2 Nova Scotia Music Awards in Education and Artist Development. Multi Juno Award nominee and Certified Gold recording artist Jill Barber has been managed by Evan since her career inception in 2005.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: I’m running for the board because I care a lot about our industry and want to collaborate with those who feel the same. Supporting people who support artists are what will keep this business afloat. I’ll be a good director because I’m a strong advocate for change and doing the thing that goes against what most are doing.
Jenn Sookdeo
Ontario // Folk (Roots, Americana, Singer-Songwriter, Folk-Rock), Pop, Rock, Alternative
BIO: Jenn Sookdeo has been a prominent figure in the music industry across Canada for over a decade. She is manages Aysanabee, Canada’s first Indigenous Artist to reach #1 at Canadian radio, co-manages Montreal's alt-rock chart topping, awards winning, darlings Sam Roberts Band, and produces live events. Her multiple hats engage an expertise that allows her to fully support a musician’s journey to the stage while making the fan experience a memorable one. SOOKS also focuses on creating opportunities to nurture and guide the next generation of entertainment industry professionals and continuously strives to break down barriers for herself and others.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: As a dedicated manager, I bring hands-on experience and a curious understanding of the challenges and opportunities within the fast-evolving music industry. My approach is rooted in a passion for nurturing talent, the fan experience, and a commitment to creating long-term careers for the artists I represent. I understand the importance of advocating for artists' rights, negotiating fair deals, and navigating the complexities of the modern music landscape. My experience equips me with the practical insights necessary to contribute meaningfully to the MMF Canada board. I am committed to fostering collaboration, sharing best practices, and helping to shape programs that support the success of all members.
Jermayne Clayton
Ontario // Afrobeat, EDM (Dance, Electronic, House, Techno, Dubstep), Gospel, Rap (Hip Hop, Trap, Alternative hip hop), R&B (Soul, NeoSoul)
BIO: Jermayne Clayton is President of the Management Division and a driving force of Awesome Productions & Management; an artist management, label and publishing company. As President, Clayton is responsible for the ever-growing talented roster of electronic/dance artists/producers (Cyril Hahn, Adam K), Hip-Hop/R&B producers (Multi-platinum, Grammy and Juno nominated Producers Jordon Manswell, YoungTN, and Ace G), and artists (2021 & 2024 Polaris Prize Shortlist artist DijahSB and Juno winner singer/songwriter Dylan Sinclair).
Claytons love for music is undeniable - a passion that began at a young age. Rhythms from Sinatra, Gaye to Marley, continue to run through his Jamaican-Canadian blood inspiring him daily.
Dedicated to amplifying both Canadian talent and management, Clayton makes sure to take time in his hectic schedule to mentor young managers in day to day management practices, advising some of the industries brightest and best artist managers. He also serves on the Board of Directors for FACTOR Canada; a private non-profit organization that provides over $24 million in funding to assist the growth and development of the Canadian music industry. With an artist-first mentality and keen musical ear, he is focused on building the brands of his roster - in a time where Canadian Music continues to be a shining light in todays' music industry.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: I am committed to fostering collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity within our community, ensuring that our collective voice remains strong and influential in shaping the future of music management in Canada. As we continue to grow our brand’s presence across the country, I will ensure that our voice is heard in key industry meetings and discussions. Managers play an integral role in the entertainment industry, and I am dedicated to securing the recognition we deserve.
Jill Snell
Ontario // Country, Folk (Roots, Americana, Singer-Songwriter, Folk-Rock), Pop
BIO: Jill spent the first half of her career in music as a label manager for major record labels (Island/A&M/BMG) while also serving on the CCMA Board and chairing Juno committees. In 2003 Jill left the majors to co-found her first independent label (The Orange Record Label) and continued to create new project management companies as opportunities presented themselves (Angeline/Universal, Road Angel/Maple/Warner and finally Jayward Artist Group, her current company, co-founded with artist and writer Tebey (who she also managed for 12 years) distributed by the Orchard. Jill is currently serving on the MMF Board and continues to chair for the Junos. She has managed artists in country , americana and pop genres. Jill has a passion for animal welfare and hosts an annual rescue fundraiser event “Music Rescues” during Country Music Week.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: I have been honored to serve on the MMF Board for the past two years and am wholly invested in our mission in my role as VP Business Development. Understanding the intricacies of an organization that represents a diverse membership takes time, and I am proud to be part of a group that amplifies the collective voice of Canadian music managers and self-managed artists. The more managers that join MMF, the stronger we become. So our strength lies in expanding our membership and enhancing our programming. I am eager to further contribute to building membership, developing valuable events, and helping to support the MMF team as they build in the areas of advocacy, education, and networking. My commitment is to continue learning and evolving in my role to better address the challenges faced by our members and to help drive our shared vision forward.
Kerrie Everitt
British Columbia // EDM (Dance, Electronic, House, Techno, Dubstep), Pop
BIO: Kerrie Everitt is a former corporate lawyer from Vancouver, Canada now living and working in both Vancouver and Los Angeles as a music manager for pop singer and songwriter, Capri. Her company, 80 Anthems Productions, focuses on social media marketing and branding for content creators and singers. Kerrie's experience in the corporate legal world, where she was an associate at Canada's top law firm, McCarthy Tetrault, is invaluable in this new music landscape where distribution deals and increasingly complicated social media marketing contracts require a solid background and understanding of contract and business law. Her focus is mainly on Capri, where her daily work life consists of fielding inquiries for brand deals and performance opportunities, discussing and aiding in content creation to amplify music releases, touring support, event organization and anything else that comes up in this crazy world of being an independent artist today!
NOMINEE STATEMENT: Managing an independent artist in today's music landscape means that you need to have a wide variety of tools in your toolbox. I feel that, because of the development process that I have gone through with my artist, Capri, through the last 3 years especially where she has gone from basically 100 followers to over 1.3 Million fans across her social and streaming platforms, I have learned an immense amount about the business and what it takes to survive as a singer these days. In addition, as a female working in the music industry, I am finding that it is very important to assert my qualifications and forge connections with other managers and executives to balance out the still extremely male-dominated tendencies in this music world. As a board member, I know I could add insight and valuable information from this perspective. My background as a corporate lawyer for four years at the largest law firm in Canada would also be helpful in navigating any legal issues that could arise on the board.
Marvin Chan
Saskatchewan // Folk (Roots, Americana, Singer-Songwriter, Folk-Rock), Pop, Rap (Hip Hop, Trap, Alternative hip hop), R&B (Soul, NeoSoul), Rock
BIO: Merv xx Gotti is the Asian-Canadian, award-winning multi-genre artist best known his solo singer-songwriter, dream-pop project, "Guitar Songs”. He is also the singer of hip-hop/R&B duo, Samurai Champs, and emo band, GHOSTFORM. Additionally, he is the Founder and Artistic Director of Canadian DJ & artist collective, Trifecta Sound Co, as well as Archivist of Toronto’s ISO Radio. His debut solo singer-songwriter release, Guitar Songs EP, was released March 2024 in anticipation of his debut 5-show showcase presence at SXSW (Austin, TX). The EP explores a more minimal sound, emphasizing his androgynous, dreamy vocals to deliver vulnerable, sincere songwriting. The EP has since amassed over 300,000 streams on Spotify and charted on Earshot’s Top 30 charts 8 consecutive weeks. The EP’s first single, “Jiujitsu”, was played on 21 CBC stations across the country, the biggest syndication pick-up for a Saskatchewan artist in the past 5 years. As Artistic Director of Trifecta Sound Co., Merv xx Gotti has been celebrated for his work in community building. He has spoken at conferences such as NXNE, BreakOut West, and the Congress of Humanities & Social Sciences. He has received accolades from CBC's Future 40 and TD Bank's Creative Entrepreneurship Incubator. Last year, Trifecta Sound Co. was awarded a double-win at the Saskatchewan Music Awards for both Industry Achievement and Music Organization of the Year.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: I wish to share my insight into the Canadian and export music geography as a self-managed artist, both in solo and band capacities, as well as director of Trifecta Sound Co, where I mentor and guide a roster of artists and DJs distributed throughout Canada. I believe my first-hand experience and perspective of navigating the Canadian and international music industries, both as an artist as well as creative mentor to others, will serve as an asset to the board. Thank you for considering my nomination.
Olivia Street
Alberta // Pop, Rock
BIO: Olivia holds a Master of Arts degree from the University of Alberta and has been active as a self-managed artist and music industry member for nearly 20 years. As the artist, King of Foxes, she was honoured with a nomination for Rock Artist of the Year at the 2022 Western Canadian Music Awards and was one of the winners of the 2023 Edmonton Music Prize. She is an instructor at MacEwan University, in both the Department of Music and Arts and Cultural Management, and is the director of the TD Music Artist in Residence Program at MacEwan University, an emerging artist development program. Olivia owns and operates Crystal Baby Music, a label services, artist management, and consultation business whose clients have included artists, record labels, and music venues, and organizations, and has served on the jury member for the JUNOS, FACTOR, and others.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: With nearly 20 years of experience in the music industry, I would bring a diverse skill set to the Music Managers Forum board. As both a self-managed artist and an artist manager, I have firsthand experience navigating the challenges and opportunities that artists face today. I have successfully supported a range of clients, from emerging artists to established record labels and music venues. My experience serving on juries for the JUNOS, FACTOR, and other industry awards has provided me with valuable insights into the industry. I am passionate about advocating for artists and managers, and I am committed to fostering a supportive and innovative music community. I would be pleased to contribute to the growth and success of the Music Managers Forum by leveraging my experience and dedication to the industry.
Rebecca Windjack
Alberta // Folk (Roots, Americana, Singer-Songwriter, Folk-Rock), Pop
BIO: Rebecca Windjack is an artist manager and director of artist relations at Birthday Cake: a Winnipeg-based management, record label, and publishing company working with top artists like The Brothers Landreth, Leith Ross, and Begonia. With over 14 years in the music and entertainment industry, Rebecca has worked on management teams for notable artists such as Serena Ryder, Dear Rouge, and The Sheepdogs. In 2020, Rebecca began managing emerging singer songwriter Leith Ross. She's played a key role in the launch of Ross's global career, including the release of their breakout song “We’ll Never Have Sex,” signing with Republic Records and Secretly Canadian Publishing, releasing their debut album “To Learn,” and over 45 sold-out headline shows across North America, the UK, and Europe. In 2022, Rebecca joined the advisory council for Music Canada, and continues to serve the community as a mentor and advocate for equity and accountability within Canadian music.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: Having greatly benefited from MMF Canada’s support throughout my career, I would be honoured to serve on the board of directors. As an artist manager, I am deeply committed to advocating for equity, fostering positive industry evolution, and building safe and respectful communities where artists and managers can flourish. Management is one of the most nuanced roles in our industry, making the MMF invaluable to managers and self-managed artists in Canada and globally. I’m passionate about mentorship and sharing resources to support others in this complex field. Joining the board would allow me to contribute more meaningfully to this vital community, and I’m eager to connect and collaborate with others who share this commitment. I hope to have the opportunity to serve and further the mission of MMF Canada as a board member!
Tennyson King
Ontario // Folk (Roots, Americana, Singer-Songwriter, Folk-Rock), Global Music, Pop, Rock
BIO: Tennyson King is an award-winning, nomadic, folk musician from Hong Kong and Canada with a charismatic stage personality and magnetic energy. Pairing songs written in English, and Chinese with kick drum, Zhongruan, electric and acoustic guitar, he captivates audiences with positivity, interactive songs, and playful stories of life on the road. He’s appeared solo from great halls to intimate theatres and brings his band to festival stages with a restorative sound that brings crowds to their feet; folk-rock infused with earthy roots, pop, and subtle psychedelic ear candy. Recent releases, include collaborations with Lindi Ortega, Skye Wallace, and Kim Yang (Taiwan). He was a 2023 Canadian Folk Music Nominee and winner of Songwriter of the Year at the Mississauga Music Awards and Vocalist of the Year at the MARTYs. His recent tours brought him to perform at Glastonbury Music Festival (UK) & Jade Music Festival (Taiwan).
NOMINEE STATEMENT: I would like to run for the board because I believe that I have experience working in the music industry since 2012. I have been a principle songwriter, music director, producer, and manager of many bands. Recording, releasing albums, booking tours and creating marketing plans. Since 2017, I have been a self-managed independent artist for my own solo career booking numerous tours in Canada, Australia, Asia and the United Kingdom. Releasing albums, writing grants, business plans, marketing plans as well as working with different Canadian Arts & Culture Trade Commissioners around the globe. I also strongly believe in advocating for the Chinese and Asian music community as it is under represented in the Canadian music industry. I would love to be a voice for my Chinese/Asian community and share what I believe could be done to help lift our community of artists to provide more opportunity and visibility.
Wayne Samuels
Ontario // Afrobeat, EDM (Dance, Electronic, House, Techno, Dubstep), Gospel, Latin, Pop, Rap (Hip Hop, Trap, Alternative hip hop), R&B (Soul, NeoSoul), Reggae (Roots, Fusion, Dancehall), Soca
BIO: Wayne, a Toronto native, has spent over 25 years shaping the entertainment industry. As Co-Owner of Do Dat Dance Agency, he managed over 40 dancers nationwide. At ADVANCE, Canada’s Black Music Business Collective, he spearheaded national programming, including music career fairs and the "Inside Live" accelerator with MLSE and Live Nation. As President of Wired Management Inc, Wayne worked with artists like Daddy Yankee, Gwen Stefani, Jully Black, Avril Lavigne, and Shawn Desman. He played key roles in events such as the 2019 BMO “Be Great” Campaign and the 2015 PanAm Games Opening Ceremony with Cirque Du Soleil. He currently manages 2-time Emmy-nominated choreographer Luther Brown, who has collaborated with Janet Jackson, Mary J. Blige, and Jennifer Lopez. Now, as COO at The HOOK & Company, Wayne is revolutionizing the music industry, empowering artists, and championing diversity globally.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: I would make an exceptional candidate for the MMF board, bringing over 25 years of experience in the entertainment industry. My leadership at Do Dat Entertainment, where I managed a roster of 40+ dancers, and my role as the Manager, Programming at ADVANCE, Canada’s Black Music Business Collective, where I developed impactful national programs, demonstrate my strategic vision and commitment to diversity. As President of Wired Management Inc, I have guided the careers of top artists like Luther Brown and Jully Black, showcasing my ability to drive success at the highest levels. Currently, as COO at The HOOK & Company, I am pioneering innovative ecosystems that empower creatives globally. My deep industry knowledge, passion for artist development, and proven track record of fostering growth and inclusivity make me an ideal director for the MMF board, where I can continue championing the needs of artists and managers alike.