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
 

Kareem
DJ, Producer & Mentor
 

DJ Keaun
DJ & Radio Presenter
 

DJ E Dott
DJ, Radio Presenter & Producer
 

Olona
Rapper & Producer
 

Orion
Producer & Engineer Tutor
 

Lize a.k.a. Redd
Lyricist & Tutor
 

Will
Dancer
 

Enzo
DJ Tutor
 

Oskar
DJ, Music Production & Presenting Tutor
 

Jay
Podcast & Music Project Assistant
 

Isaac
Beatboxer, Rapper & Songwriting Tutor
 

Lillie
Photographer
 

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

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.


 

FKA Twigs

Tahliah Debrett Barnett, known by her stage name FKA Twigs, is a multifaceted British artist renowned for her groundbreaking contributions to music, dance, and fashion. Before captivating global audiences with her genre-bending soundscapes and avant-garde performances, Twigs honed her craft as a dance tutor at The DJMC Academy in 2011.

From those formative years, she emerged as a trailblazing singer-songwriter, dancer, and visual artist, captivating audiences worldwide with her unique blend of electronic music, trip hop, R&B, and avant-garde influences. Twigs' meteoric rise to prominence includes critically acclaimed albums such as LP1 and Magdalene, along with her recent mix-tape, Caprisongs, released under Atlantic Records. With a Grammy nomination, numerous accolades, and a groundbreaking NME Godlike Genius award to her name, FKA Twigs continues to push artistic boundaries and inspire generations with her unparalleled creativity and visionary approach to artistry.

 


What People Say

DJMC has been absolutely incredible in their work with our special needs learners at West Lea School. Their passion, patience, and talent create a truly inclusive and engaging musical experience for everyone involved. Through music, they bring joy, confidence, and creativity to our learners, helping them express themselves in ways words often can't.

The energy and enthusiasm DJMC brings to each session are infectious, and the impact they have on our learners is profound. Whether it's through interactive DJing, beat-making, or simply creating a space where everyone feels heard and valued, DJMC makes a real difference.

We are so grateful for their dedication and the positive impact they have on our community. Thank you, DJMC, for your brilliant work!
 
Thespina Skarpellis, Head of School, West Lea 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 DJ & MC Academy have provided a lively and young person led programme of work. The tutors are able to relate to the young people they are working with enabling all to take part. The way in which the team are able to adapt ensures that young people participate and create pieces of work that reflect their achievements. The relaxed and flowing style of the workers allows the project to be fluid allowing for spontaneous learning to occur at all stages.
 
Helen James, Youth Club Manager, Sutton
Just a few notes on the good work that you and your team have done on these estates with the youth
 
Erhan Mestanoglu, Community Development Officer, Ascham Homes
I just want to say a massive thank you for supporting the event, the DJ workshop got rave reviews.
 
Darren Smith, Football Development Officer, London FA

Click here to read more Testimonials.

Partners

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