Music student scoops community award for promoting gender equality

Gender inequality within the music industry is a topic that ex-student, Eva Davies, is incredibly passionate about. 

Studying Music Production BTEC at Leeds City College sparked her ambition to support women and people of marginalised genders in building their own careers within the sector. 

Her eagerness to promote these conversations was recognised throughout the college, leading to her receiving a Leeds Rotary Young Citizen Award.

A powerful day

Eva received the award for her role in an all-day ‘Womxn+ in Music’ event.

“Last year, I worked with social enterprise, Come Play With Me, and my events promoter, GRRLS DO THAT TOO, to run a music event. As part of the event, there were panels discussing a range of topics, networking opportunities and a workshop. 

“To finish the event, we had a gig in partnership with Independent Venue Week. It was amazing to be able to create a safe space for women and people of marginalised genders to have honest and open conversations about gender inequality in the industry.”

Celebrating achievements

The Leeds Rotary Young Citizen Awards are presented annually to young people who have supported others within their school, family or local community.

“It feels fantastic to receive the award for the Womxn+ in Music event! I was so proud to be involved in the running of such an inspiring day and to be recognised for this is really uplifting. To be able to make a difference amongst young people and help boost their confidence along the way is such an amazing feeling.”

A passion for music

Music has always taken centre stage in Eva’s life, starting from busking at 10 years old to studying it at university.

“Having parents that are very culturally-aware exposed me to local events and built up my love for music. Going to college really helped broaden my knowledge of the business side of the industry, helping me to build a network and host gigs. 

“The tutors were phenomenal, they gave me the space to explore what I was most interested in and offered huge support for anything I was working on in and outside of college.

“I’m now studying Music Industries Management at Leeds Beckett University, while also working part-time at Come Play With Me as a label assistant. As well as this, I’m in a band and continue to run GRRLS DO THAT TOO. I’ve also been lucky enough to work with Youth Music as a freelance advisor.”

Keeping up the conversation

Continuing discussions around gender inequality in the music industry is a priority for Eva.

“One of my main ambitions is to make sure conversations continue to take place on the subject and to make sure women are celebrated for their work in music scenes. I’m committed to supporting them to carve their own career paths and opportunities in the industry.” 

Keep up with Eva’s conversations about gender inequality here.