Innovative workshops for young people & adults in urban London

 

Promo Video

Click here to see our latest promotional video, filmed and edited by JAO!

About Us

The British DJ & MC Academy is a youth arts organisation based in North London.

In 2008, Krissy founded the DJ&MC Academy, driven by a passion to connect people through music. Pioneering a revolutionary mobile outreach van, she brought the rhythm directly to communities. In 2010, Krissy's appearance on Dragons Den became a platform to showcase her unwavering determination, setting the stage for sustained success.

Over 12 years, the academy has touched the lives of 100,000+ individuals across London, Wales, and Manchester. Through economic challenges and pandemic lockdowns, Krissy's journey from a teenage DJ to a youth hostel manager reflects her commitment to positive impact.

Krissy's global DJ career includes commanding sets from Miami to Ibiza and a decade at Kool FM. The academy's team, including former participants turned tutors, plays a pivotal role in its success. Beyond outreach projects, the academy excels in community events, cultivating a talented pool of DJs, producers, and artists.

Re-established as a Community Interest Company (CIC) in 2019, the academy secured funding, including support from Sadiq Khan's violence reduction project. Achievements extend to establishing radio stations, building studios, and nurturing artists under the Sonitus Music Group label. Notably, our artists have earned MOBO nominations, Sony ATV contracts, and over 100 million streams on mainstream radio.


The DJ&MC Academy stands as a testament to Krissy's vision and the transformative power of music.

Music unquestionably connects people from all walks of life. The work we do continues to leverage this virtue, delivering programmes to some of the most deprived parts of our city.
 
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Meet the Team

 

Krissy
CEO
 

Christian
Managing Director
 

Debbie
Outreach & Engagement Coordinator
 

Kyan
Social Media Manager
 

Rebecca
Admin Apprentice & PA
 

Maldi
Radio Presenter & Sound Engineer
 

Grace
Singing Tutor
 

Dean
MC
 

DJ Keaun
DJ & Radio Presenter
 

DJ E Dott
DJ, Radio Presenter & Producer
 

Olona
Rapper & Producer
 

Orion
Producer & Engineer Tutor
 

Will
Dancer
 

Enzo
DJ Tutor
 

Oskar
DJ, Music Production & Presenting Tutor
 

Jay
Podcast & Music Project Assistant
 

Lillie
Photographer
 

Sean
Tutor
 

JV
Youth Ambassador, Lyricist & Rapper
 

Irish
Youth Ambassador
 

Dre
Youth Ambassador
 

Kiki
Youth Ambassador
 

Terence
Youth Ambassador
 

Emmanuel
Youth Ambassador
 

Amy
Youth Ambassador & Singer
 

Aaliyah
Youth Ambassador & DJ
 

Tilly
Volunteer
 

Krim
Volunteer

Trustees

Introducing the Academy's Trustees

 

Serge Wyett
Chairman
 

Kenny Barber
 

Grace Dixon
 

Cynthia Coburn
 

Christie Anayiotou

Case Studies

To name just a few young people who have come through the Academy and are now inspiring artists and tutors alike.


 

Glenn Sonko

Glenn Sonko, a seasoned professional with roots in education and mentorship, initially taught on a course at Barnet College before extending his expertise to mentoring with the DJMC Academy. His journey has led him to manage renowned artists such as Tion Wayne and Potter Payper, showcasing his exceptional talent in artist management.

Additionally, Glenn holds a pivotal role as an A&R representative for Def Jam, contributing his keen insights and industry experience to the renowned record label. With his remarkable track record and dedication to nurturing talent, Glenn Sonko continues to shape the landscape of the music industry, earning him widespread recognition and admiration.

 


What People Say

I enjoyed using the microphones and decks to make a radio show. It was fun making our own beats.
 
JM (pupil), Fern House School
I enjoyed making a radio show for Black History Month. All the staff were friendly and easy to get along with.
 
LC (pupil), Fern House School
The workshop was great. The tutors showed the young people how to set up the decks, they had time on the mic, beat matching, and brainstorming for their radio station. Time went really quick and the young people were really engaged!
 
Hayley James, Sports Development and Social Inclusion Officer, Barnet FC Community Trust
The Academy was enjoyed by all those who attended, with many young people demonstrating a natural ability in mixing and making music.
 
Paula Frank, Hammersmith & Fulham Project
The British DJ & MC Academy delivered an excellent specialised course to young people as part of the Greenwich Summer University that was both lively and focused. I was particularly impressed by how the tutors and guest speakers not only provided expert advice and guidance in music and DJ skills but also provided an insight into future careers and improving aspirations that was delivered with enthusiasm and passion…I was also massively impressed by the resources and in particular the 4×4! Very cool!
 
Peter Webster, Greenwich Council

Click here to read more Testimonials.

Partners

Click here to see a complete list of our partners and clients.