VANCOUVER, BC – In recognition of the invaluable contributions of women in the music industry, the City of Vancouver has officially proclaimed February 25, 2025, as the first-ever ‘Women Behind the Sound Day.’ This initiative, a partnership between the Let’s Hear It Vancouver JUNO Host Committee and the City of Vancouver, highlights a shared commitment to fostering inclusivity and excellence in the arts ahead of International Women’s Day on March 8, 2025.
“Vancouver’s music scene wouldn’t be what it is today without the talented women working behind the sound – shaping the industry, driving creativity, and bringing our city’s music to life,” said Vancouver Mayor Ken Sim. “As we gear up for the 2025 JUNO Awards and International Women’s Day, we’re proud to recognize their leadership and impact by declaring today ‘Women Behind the Sound Day’ in the City of Vancouver. This proclamation is a celebration of their incredible contributions and a commitment to amplifying their voices.”
Arts and culture are vital to Vancouver’s identity, enriching communities, driving economic prosperity, and ensuring long-term sustainability. The local music industry is a key pillar of this creative economy, empowering thousands of musicians, performers, producers, and technical professionals.
This year, Vancouver is also proud to host the 2025 JUNO Awards, Canada’s biggest night in music, supported by the Let’s Hear It Vancouver JUNO Host Committee. As the city prepares to celebrate musical excellence on a national stage, it also recognizes the women whose work is instrumental in sustaining and growing the industry.
Spearheading this project on behalf of the Vancouver JUNO Host Committee is Neesha Hothi, Director of Marketing & Communications. “Women are a driving force in Vancouver’s music and live events industry, leading, creating, and innovating across all aspects of the field. Many have built careers by being resourceful and visionary, often finding ways to push the industry forward despite challenges. ‘Women Behind the Sound Day’ is a long-overdue acknowledgment of their impact and a celebration of their invaluable contributions.”
From creative artistry to leadership, women in Vancouver’s music industry serve as innovators, mentors, and champions across all facets of the sector. Their contributions extend far beyond performance and production, ensuring that diverse voices and local emerging talent continue to thrive.
To mark this occasion, the Women Behind the Sound initiative has identified and honoured a group of exceptional women who have made a lasting impact on Vancouver’s music landscape.
This year’s honourees include:
- Lindsay MacPherson, Executive Director, Music BC
- Savannah Wellman, Co-Founder, Women in Music; BC Chapter, Chair, Music Managers Forum; Co-Founder Tiny Kingdom Label
- Julie Fowler, Executive Director, BC Music Festival Collective; Co-Producer, Ignite the Arts Festival
- Simone Grewal, Vice-President, BC Association of Broadcasters; Program Director & Afternoon Host, 104.3 The Breeze
- Women of BC Place’s Leadership Team
- Anita Sodhi-Cavezza, Director of Business Development and Event Sales
- Cindy Szutu, Senior Manager of Finance
- Jenna Visram, Assistant General Manager and Director of Events and Guest Experience
- Jenny McKenzie, Senior Manager of Marketing and Communications
- Lisa Clark, Director of Safety and Security
