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
 

Kyan
Social Media Manager
 

Debbie
Outreach & Engagement Coordinator
 

Maldi
Radio Presenter & Sound Engineer
 

Grace
Singing Tutor
 

Kareem
DJ, Producer & Mentor
 

Keon
DJ & Radio Presenter
 

DJ E Dott
DJ, Radio Presenter & Producer
 

Mariah
DJ, Radio Presenter & Tutor
 

Olona
Rapper & Producer
 

Will
Dancer
 

Bradley
DJ Tutor
 

Enzo
DJ Tutor
 

Oskar
DJ, Music Production & Presenting Tutor
 

Nathaniel
Lyricist & Production Tutor
 

Jay
Podcast & Music Project Assistant
 

Layla
Singer/Songwriter
 

Isaac
Beatboxer, Rapper & Songwriting Tutor
 

Lillie
Photographer
 

Irish
Young Ambassador
 

Dre
Young Ambassador
 

Kiki
Young Ambassador
 

Terence
Young Ambassador
 

Emmanuel
Young Ambassador
 

Amy
Young Ambassador & Singer
 

Aaliyah
Young Ambassador & DJ
 

Tilly
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.


 

Kenny Barber

Kenny Barber also known as BXRBER embodies the transformative power of music, having begun his journey as a young adult assisting on workshops before blossoming into a celebrated artist and industry leader. With a background as a singer-songwriter signed to Sony ATV, BXRBER’s evolution from grass roots involvement to professional success is a testament to his unwavering dedication and passion for music.

Currently serving as the Relationship Manager at PRS for Music, BXRBER plays a pivotal role in supporting and promoting high-profile songwriters, producers, and music publishers. Additionally, as the Managing Director of Sonitus Music Group, he oversees a talented roster including R&B sensation Bellah and a diverse array of tour management projects. BXRBER's journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring artists and industry professionals alike, highlighting the boundless possibilities within the realm of music.

 


What People Say

The British DJ & MC Academy sessions were a fantastic experience for our class. The DJs were incredibly understanding of the children’s varied needs and patient when focus was difficult. They created a calm, fun, and supportive atmosphere where every child could shine. Writing a song together and dancing to our own music was an unforgettable highlight!
 
Dorota Witkowska, Vale School
Haringey Council's High Road West team has been collaborating with the British DJ Academy for the past 18 months to enhance the community engagement offer for the area.

Krissy and her dedicated team have supported children and young people who are not in education, training, or employment. Through their uplifting and inspiring programme, they have created avenues where young people can thrive. The DJ Academy mentorship has brought opportunities and joy to many young people in Tottenham, and we are thrilled to have formed such a solid partnership that will continue to support many more young people.
 
Lauren Schneider, Community Engagement Officer, Haringey Council
The British DJ and MC Academy are a great organisation to work with, delivering the highest standard of workshops in a fun and exciting manner for all that take part. Across all the Nike Five Legacy events they delivered a fantastic atmosphere and kept the energy levels high. It was a real privilege to work with such a passionate group of people and I look forward to working with them in the future.
 
Daniel Barry, Nike Powerleague
It was a really fabulous afternoon and the groups and staff had a great time so thank you so much!
 
Kirsty Palmer, Co-ordinator, The Royal London Society for Blind People
Working with the DJMC Academy has been an absolute pleasure. They are really professional; promote good values among students and really know how to have fun when doing so! I was so impressed with how flexible they were in creating our individual programme and the willingness to keep going until it was perfect. And, it was perfect! There is no doubt that this day and the important message about safety will not be forgotten. Great energy – hope to see you for more inspiration soon!
 
Kathleen Sorrell, Assistant Principal, Walthamstow Academy

Click here to read more Testimonials.

Partners

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