Meet the 2026/2027 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.
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.
2026/2027 Nominees
Jeff Ojeda
British Columbia // Country, EDM (Dance, Electronic, House, Techno, Dubstep), Folk (Roots, Americana, Singer-Songwriter, Folk-Rock), Pop, Rock
BIO: Jeff Ojeda has become one of Canada’s most proficient young managers with the expansion of Phase Entertainment Group in 2025; an evolution from traditional management to a one-of-a-kind model specializing in comprehensive career artist development. Jeff’s mastery in creative marketing has been a pillar in his client’s success and proves that the future of music management excellence necessitates having a multifaceted perspective and skillset. Ojeda has become one of Canada’s most award recognized creative entrepreneurs following the success of his expanding business offerings, including Phase client Kyle McKearney celebrating his 12th Canadian Country Music Award nomination while reaching an impressive 13,000,000+ catalogue streams, and a Top 30 Billboard charting hit as independents. The Phase roster welcomed Alberta-based powerhouse Alex Hughes, along with one of Canada’s top rock acts, Royal Tusk, and the announcement of landing them on a national arena tour supporting rock heavyweights Three Days Grace & Finger Eleven.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: I believe I would be a great addition to the MMF Canada board of directors, as I share a passion and commitment to strengthening the music management communities with the work being done to give back to emerging artists and entrepreneurs. With over 4 years of board experience under my belt on a provincial level (with Music BC and the BC Country Music Association), I feel that the timing of national appointment would be welcome as I’ve been exploring new ways to build the careers of artists with strategic partnerships, both domestically and internationally. I was also bestowed the inaugural MMF Canada “Trailblazer Award” in 2023 and have continued to proudly uphold the legacy by finding new paths to success for my roster clients and others, through mentorship, panels, workshops and overall lending my expertise to organizations from coast to coast. My vision for management is also multi-genre and I pride myself in having a roster that is diverse and representative of several marginalized walks of life. It would be my honour to serve on the board of directors for MMF Canada and continue to build on the impressive and important foundation that exists, and to further add value where I can for the future generations of creative entrepreneurs.
Jacqueline Giron Hernandez
Quebec // Latin
BIO: Jacqueline Giron Hernandez is a financial manager, artist manager, and event producer with a passion for building meaningful projects that create lasting impact. She holds a bachelor's degree in Mathematics from University of Montreal, a specialized diploma in Management from HEC Montréal, and a professional certificate in event launch and the entertainment industry. With extensive experience in financial oversight and strategic management, Jacqueline combines analytical expertise with creativity to develop innovative opportunities in both the corporate and entertainment sectors. As the founder of Beat Factory, she is dedicated to discovering, developing, and promoting emerging artists while producing events that connect talent with new audiences in Canada and other countries. Recognized for her leadership, professionalism, and entrepreneurial mindset, Jacqueline approaches every initiative with integrity, vision, and a commitment to excellence.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: Music has become one of the biggest passions in my life, and serving on the board would be an opportunity to give back to an industry that has given me so much. Over the past few years, I have built Beat Factory from the ground up, working alongside emerging artists, producers, and industry professionals while learning firsthand the challenges that music managers face every day. I know what it's like to wear many hats, build relationships, solve problems, and create opportunities with limited resources. I also bring a strong background in finance and governance, allowing me to contribute both creatively and strategically. I want to help strengthen the music management community by encouraging collaboration, sharing knowledge, and ensuring managers across Canada have the tools, connections, and support they need to help their artists succeed at home and internationally.
Olivia Street
Alberta // Folk (Roots, Americana, Singer-Songwriter, Folk-Rock), Pop, Rock
BIO: Olivia holds a Master of Arts degree from the University of Alberta and has been active as a self-managed artist, artist manager, 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 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 Departments of Music and Arts and Cultural Management and the workshop director of the TD Music Artist in Residence Program at MacEwan University. She is the co-founder of Alberta-based record label, Ram On Records, and has served on the jury member for the JUNOs, FACTOR, the Western Canadian Music Awards, and others.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: I am running for the MMF Canada Board because I have a great deal of respect for the work the organization does on behalf of artist managers across the country. I would be honoured to contribute to the leadership of an organization that supports such a diverse membership and advocates for a strong, sustainable music industry. Based in Alberta, I bring perspectives from outside Canada's largest music markets, along with experience as an artist manager, recording artist, independent label co-founder, educator, talent buyer, and grant writer. Working across many facets of the industry has given me a broad understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing today's managers. I would bring a collaborative approach, a willingness to listen, and a commitment to ensuring the organization continues to serve managers at every stage of their careers.
Danny Reiner
Ontario // EDM (Dance, Electronic, House, Techno, Dubstep), Pop, R&B (Soul, NeoSoul), Rock
BIO: Danny Reiner is an accomplished music executive and entertainment manager with nearly two decades of industry leadership. Since entering the business in 2007, Reiner has spearheaded career strategies for a prestigious roster of chart-topping talent, including Grammy-winners Nelly Furtado and Alessia Cara, as well as Fefe Dobson, and Tyler Shaw.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: I am empowered to join the Board of Directors to help guide our MMFs strategic vision, drive sustainable growth for artists and their management team and iron out some roadblocks I've experienced in my own journey as a manager. I am eager to apply my experience in leadership, collaborative strategy to help navigate upcoming opportunities and challenges. What makes me an effective director is my balanced approach to governance: I prioritize transparent communication, data-driven decision-making, and active listening. I believe the strength of a board lies in its ability to gather diverse perspectives and convert these into actionable, forward-thinking policy. My background has equipped me to ask critical questions, assess risk effectively, and advocate fiercely for the long-term interests of MMF members and stakeholders. I'd like to be a part of the change I'd like to see within the business and this is a means to do so.
Elise Roller
Manitoba // Pop, Rap (Hip Hop, Trap, Alternative hip hop), R&B (Soul, NeoSoul), Rock
BIO: Elise Roller is the founder and CEO of Misfit Music Inc., a Winnipeg-based artist development and management company, and umbrella of the newly launched Odd Doll Records. She was recognized as Women in Music Canada’s Entrepreneur of the Year in 2023 in addition to consistently receiving other awards and nominations for her strength as a music community leader. In addition to managing a diverse roster of talent which prioritizes underrepresented voices, she also supports independent artists who require team support on a project-to-project basis offering creative marketing support, mentorship, strategic planning, and helping them successfully manage their own careers through Misfit’s Artist Evolution program. She teaches workshops on all things music biz, and beyond, and has served 3 years on the board of Music Managers Forum Canada.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: I'm seeking re-election to the MMF board because the work we've started deserves continuity, and my work with the team is not yet done. Over my first term, my focus has centred on three commitments: advancing equity across the music industry, helping our sector navigate evolving business models, and advocating for the sustainability of the working class music community as a whole, not just its most visible players. As Chair of the Strategic Planning Committee, I'm leading the development of our new three-year strategic plan to set a clear direction for the organization's next chapter. That plan will soon be complete, moving from vision to execution, and I want to see it through. A second term lets me carry this work forward with the context and momentum already built. Being raised in Alberta, living a decade in Manitoba, and working with several BC-based music pros, I represent perspectives from a large cross-section of the Western Canadian music scene - one I'm always committed to strengthening.
Delvina E. Bernard
Nova Scotia // Gospel, R&B (Soul, NeoSoul)
Delvina Bernard is a Canadian songwriter, vocalist, cultural tradition bearer, educator, and social justice advocate whose work bridges music, heritage preservation, scholarship, and institutional change. An 8th-generation African Nova Scotian, she draws on her ancestral legacy to amplify Black voices, preserve cultural memory, and advance equity across Canada’s music, education, and cultural sectors. As co-founder and music director of the trailblazing all-female a cappella ensemble Four the Moment, Delvina helped redefine the East Coast soundscape over three transformative decades. The ensemble, rooted in African Nova Scotian musical traditions, received numerous honours, including the 2022 Polaris Heritage Prize and Lifetime Achievement Awards from Music Nova Scotia and the African Nova Scotian Music Association (ANSMA). They were also the inaugural recipients of the ECMA’s African Canadian Artist of the Year Award. Delvina co-founded ANSMA and was co-investigator and author of Music Nova Scotia’s landmark Black Music Strategy—Black Music Matters, advancing racial equity and greater industry access for Black artists. She also co-founded the Young, Gifted, and Black Women in Jazz Showcase. As manager of award-winning R&B artist Zamani Folade, Delvina has supported an emerging career marked by multiple ECMAs and ANSMAs, a SOCAN Young Songwriters Award, and international performances. Her leadership includes serving as Vice-Chair, EDIA Lead, and Black Music Committee Coordinator with the East Coast Music Association, as well as leadership roles with Oxfam Canada and UNESCO Canada. A former educator and institutional change strategist, Delvina co-founded the Africentric Learning Institute of Nova Scotia and helped establish Canada’s first master’s program in Africentric Leadership at Mount Saint Vincent University. She holds degrees in business administration and adult education and is pursuing a PhD in Global Studies examining reparations in cultural, economic, and education industries.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: As a long-standing cultural leader, educator, and music manager on the East Coast, my work has consistently centered the advancement of Black and women artists in Canada’s music industry. From co-founding the trailblazing ensemble Four the Moment to leading the creation of Music Nova Scotia’s Black Music Strategy – Black Music Matters, I have dedicated my career to amplifying underrepresented voices and building pathways for equity within the industry. As music manager for award-winning R&B artist Zamani Folade, I continue to demonstrate my commitment to nurturing emerging talent and ensuring that Black women artists have the professional infrastructure needed to thrive nationally and internationally.
Joining the board of the Music Managers Forum of Canada would allow me to bring this experience and perspective to a national platform. My leadership roles with the East Coast Music Association, the African Nova Scotian Music Association, and national boards such as Oxfam Canada and UNESCO Canada have equipped me with a deep understanding of governance, strategic planning, and the urgent need for equitable industry representation. I believe that my experience bridging artistry, advocacy, and policy positions me to contribute meaningfully to MMF’s mission of strengthening Canada’s music management community, while ensuring that diverse voices are included in shaping the industry’s future.
Ultimately, my goal in joining MMF Canada is to help foster an inclusive and innovative music ecosystem where managers are empowered to support a wider spectrum of artists. By centering the needs of Black and women musicians, I aim to contribute to a more representative and resilient industry that reflects the richness of Canada’s cultural landscape.
Marina Di Battista
Ontario // Country, Global Music, Metal, Pop, Rock
BIO: I am an educator, music business professional, journalist, and nonprofit leader with a passion for strengthening Canada's music industry through education, advocacy, and collaboration. I hold a Doctor of Education, a master's degree in Music Business from Berklee College of Music, and a master's degree in Adult Education, and I am currently pursuing a PhD in Music. Throughout my career, I have worked across higher education, artist development, media, and live events while serving on several nonprofit and industry boards. I believe in creating opportunities that help artists and music professionals thrive through mentorship, professional development, and meaningful partnerships. As a member of the Music Managers Forum Canada Board, I hope to contribute my governance experience, strategic perspective, and collaborative approach to support music managers and help build a stronger, more connected industry for the future.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: I am running for the Music Managers Forum Canada Board because I believe music managers deserve a strong advocate who understands both the creative and business sides of the industry. My experience spans higher education, the music industry, journalism, nonprofit governance, and artist development, giving me a broad perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing managers today. I am committed to fostering collaboration, supporting professional development, and creating meaningful connections that help managers and their artists succeed. I value transparency, strategic thinking, and listening to diverse perspectives, and I believe effective leadership starts with serving the community. I would be honoured to contribute my experience, energy, and commitment to helping strengthen MMF Canada and support the continued growth of Canada's music industry.
Michael Warren
Ontario // R&B (Soul, NeoSoul), Reggae (Roots, Fusion, Dancehall)
BIO: Michael Warren is an artist manager at the Toronto-based company Unique Applause Inc., an independent management company dedicated so nurturing sustainable careers in unfairly-labeled niche genres. His acclaimed client roster includes Reggae artist Ammoye, Retro-Pop/Disco performer Maya Killtron, and Soul/R&B singer Tanika Charles. In 2023 Michael was nominated for Manager of the Year at the Canadian Live Music Awards.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: Having been involved with many MMF Canada events, initiatives and export missions over the last few years, I’ve gained a close understanding of the value of the organization, both in terms of what it can offer to our community and it’s critical role in the greater Canadian music landscape. As a mostly solo business operator with a client roster of independent artists, I believe my 10 year career speaks to the inherent scrappiness our line of work requires. MMF Canada has been a key part of my professional growth and sustainability. I’d like to help it grow and flourish for years to come so that others can benefit as I have.
Tiffannie Bruney (Tea Fannie)
Alberta // Rap (Hip Hop, Trap, Alternative hip hop)
BIO: Tea Fannie is a Calgary-based artist, music professional, and community builder working across performance, artist development, event production, and music programming. A chameleonic rapper and award-winning recording artist, Tea has built a career rooted in collaboration, community, and creating opportunities for artists to thrive. She has opened for artists including Princess Nokia, Begonia, Planet Giza, and Homeboy Sandman, and her album It’s All Love won Rap Recording of the Year at the YYC Music Awards. Beyond her own practice, Tea works with youth teaching rap and poetry as a program facilitator with Unity Charity, and running part time youth programs at the National Music Centre. She brings firsthand experience navigating the realities of being an independent artist alongside a strong interest in strengthening artist support systems, industry access, and sustainable careers for music professionals.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: I want to run for the MMF board because I believe artists and managers are stronger when we build the industry together. As a queer, femme, plus-size artist working in hip hop, I bring a perspective shaped by navigating spaces where artists don’t always fit the "traditional" industry mold. Alongside my own music career, I work in programming, production, and community-focused shows, giving me insight into both the creative and organizational sides of our industry. I would make a good director because I’m curious, community-minded, and genuinely invested in creating more accessible and sustainable pathways for artists and music professionals. I’m not afraid to ask questions, challenge assumptions, or learn where I don’t have the answer. I want to help build an industry where more artists can see themselves represented, supported, and able to build lasting careers.
Marvin Chan
Saskatchewan // Folk (Roots, Americana, Singer-Songwriter, Folk-Rock), Rock
BIO: Marvin Chan (Merv xx Gotti) is an award-winning Asian-Canadian singer-songwriter, best known for his solo dream-folk project, Guitar Songs. He is also the singer of Canadian emo/post-hardcore band, GHOSTFORM, and founder of award-winning music collective and label, Trifecta Sound Co. After performing at SXSW for 3 back-to-back years from 2024 to 2026, Merv xx Gotti released his debut studio album, Guitar Songs: A Thesis on Low-Efficiency Emotional Excavation. The LP’s first single, “Jiujitsu,” was named one of CBC’s Top 100 Canadian Songs. During GHOSTFORM’s Toronto debut at NXNE 2026, they were named in Exclaim’s “5 Must-See Acts at NXNE” and MET Radio’s “Top 3 Moments of NXNE”. With Trifecta Sound Co., Chan’s work in community building has been featured on CBC, VICE Noisey, & Exclaim!, as well as presented at BreakOut West, NXNE, and the Congress of Humanities & Social Sciences.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: While being a self-managed artist and artistic director of Trifecta Sound Co. (where I’ve also managed and developed other artists) I’ve had the opportunity to see the Canadian music industry from many angles: artist development, touring, export, funding, and everything in between. Along the way, I’ve seen the added barriers artists-of-colour face, and I want to help build a more equitable industry where more people have a real opportunity to succeed, and perhaps can do this with the MMF. Over the past year, I’ve been fortunate to take part in MMF Canada’s Bespoke mentorship program, as well as UK & Germany export missions. I’ve seen firsthand how MMF can help managers and self-managed artists take meaningful steps forward in their careers, and contributing to this, especially for artists-of-colour meant a lot to me. I’d love the opportunity to give back to this community, share what I’ve learned, and help MMF continue making the Canadian music industry more accessible, equitable, and sustainable, especially through my lens of DIY creative entrepreneurialism.
Martin Mayer
British Columbia // Classical, Jazz, Latin, Pop, Neoclassical / Classical-Crossover
BIO: Martin Mayer is a Czech-Canadian concert pianist, award-nominated composer, and neoclassical recording artist with a 30-year international performing career, including multiple headline tours across China (2001–2019) and a 13-year festival partnership in Taiwan. As a fully self-managed artist, Martin has built and run every side of his own career — from booking and touring to production, distribution, and brand development — most recently through his 2025 flagship release "The Solo Piano Collection," featuring Grammy-winning violinist Charlie Bisharat.
Martin is now developing Martin Mayer Talent Inc., an international co-venture representing Canadian artists in international markets, set to launch in 2027. He has served as Chair of Watari Counselling & Support Services, as a Board Member at Port Moody Arts Centre, and Advisor of the MacEwan University Alumni Council bringing governance experience alongside his artist-side perspective to the table.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: I'm running for the board to bring my artistic and business experience across the Canadian and international music scene to a table where it can make a real difference. As a fully self-managed artist, I've spent 30 years building my own career from the ground up — touring internationally, producing and releasing my own work, and navigating this industry firsthand. I want to champion the efforts of fellow self-managed artists and those balancing music alongside other careers, sharing the knowledge and expertise I've gained along the way. I had the great fortune to learn from those who walked before me, and I'm keen to pay that forward — mentoring, advocating, and giving back to a community that has given me so much. I'd be honoured to help support the mission and direction of the Music Managers Forum as it continues to serve its members.
Ulysses Santos de Paula
Ontario // Jazz, Latin, Pop, Rap (Hip Hop, Trap, Alternative hip hop)
BIO: Ulysses De Paula is a Brazilian-Canadian music manager, cultural producer, and founder of Showzaço Artistic Productions, a Toronto-based agency dedicated to connecting artists and audiences across Canada, Latin America, and the Lusophone world. With more than 20 years of experience in the global music industry, he has worked across artist management, international touring, festival programming, and music export initiatives in countries including Brazil, Canada, South Africa, Ghana, Portugal, France, Belgium, China, and Argentina. Ulysses is a FACTOR juror, and a member of the JUNO Latin Music Committee. He is passionate about creating opportunities for independent artists and managers, strengthening international collaboration, and advancing equity and representation within Canada's music industry.
NOMINEE STATEMENT: I'm running for the MMF Canada Board because I believe music managers are essential to building sustainable careers for artists, and our voices should play a central role in shaping the future of Canada's music industry. Throughout my career, I have built bridges between Canadian and international markets while supporting independent artists through touring, artist development, strategic partnerships, and export opportunities. As a board member, I would bring an international perspective, strong relationships across diverse music communities, and a collaborative leadership style. I am committed to helping MMF Canada expand its impact, strengthen professional development for managers, advocate for a more inclusive industry, and create meaningful opportunities for emerging and underrepresented professionals across the country.