Women in CTRL scoops IMPALA’s Changemaker award for their inspiring work on equity, diversity and inclusion in the independent music sector

30 May 2023 - Press release

For the second edition of its Changemaker award, IMPALA honours the UK not-for-profit organisation Women in CTRL, for their work developing and supporting music creators and music professionals from under-represented groups. Women in CTRL was founded by Nadia Khan and has been very active on its mission to advance gender equality in the music industry.

The not-for-profit organisation was set up to empower and inspire women in the entertainment, creative and business sectors of the music industry and encourages women and non-binary persons to find their strengths, develop their own personal brand and build the tools and confidence to become leaders. The organisation has been delivering high-level and impactful creative growth programmes, community workshops, mentoring, training, organising events and more.

On top of the community and network they built, they provide inclusive safe spaces for talent of all ages and backgrounds to grow. Women in CTRL also publishes research and reports, such as the “Seat at the table report” looking at the representation of women with an intersectional focus on black women in the boardroom of UK music trade bodies as well as CEO & chair roles, followed upby the 2021 edition. They also released “Women in radio report” looking into the experiences of women in the radio industry, to identify barriers women face from entry level to senior roles.

Women in CTRL has partnered up with AIM and Amazon Music to launch new apprenticeship scheme, “Amplify”, which aims to improve access to music industry careers for women and non-binary people, Amplify allows businesses to attract high quality talent and diversify their workforce.

Nadia Khan, founder of Women in CTRL, commented: “It’s an honour for Women in CTRL to be chosen as the 2nd recipient of the Changemaker award. This recognition affirms our work, inspires us to continue and highlights the independent community's collective determination and passion in driving positive change within the music industry. Women in CTRL firmly believe in the transformative power of sharing best practices and learning from the exceptional organizations that IMPALA champions.

Together, we can create a ripple effect that resonates throughout the industry. Collaboration is the key to achieving meaningful and lasting change, by joining forces, we can break down barriers, challenge existing norms, and forge a path towards a more inclusive and diverse music industry that embraces and amplifies the voices of all.

I’d like to thank the EDI taskforce for voting for us and express our commitment to continuing our work in this area and making a positive difference in the music industry. This award represents a celebration of the extraordinary impact that changemaking initiatives can have and is a beacon of inspiration, not only for Women in CTRL but for the entire independent sector.”

Eva Karman Reinhold, SOM’s CEO, IMPALA Equity, Diversity and Inclusion task force’s chair added: “I’m glad IMPALA members and task force chose to honour Women in CTRL this year with this award. Their work to bring a more inclusive music sector is central. Make sure to check out all resources and info they can provide.” 

Keith Harris OBE, adviser of IMPALA’s Equity Diversity and Inclusion task force continued: “It is a pleasure to see how equality and diversity has become a normal part of employers’ considerations right across the industry and Women in CTRL really deserve this award.”

Helen Smith, IMPALA’s Executive Chair commented: “Women in CTRL is an inspiration to all in the sector who seek to bring change. It’s an honour to be able to showcase their work through our Changemaker Award. Other great projects are also featured on our Changemakers page.”

This award runs yearly during European Diversity Month with IMPALA members nominating projects, and IMPALA’s equity, diversity and inclusion task force voting the winner. Make sure to check our dedicated webpage highlighting other initiatives that promote equity, diversity, and inclusion in the music sector to get inspired (see here).