Voice For Change

Voice For Change is a community-focussed music initiative developed by the Mushroom Group supported by Victorian Government, to inspire young people to follow their dreams and ambitions. Voice For Change is about connectivity, inclusion, acceptance, overcoming adversity and harnessing the power of music to impact and positively change lives.

In 2017 we heard from an inspiring collection of top urban music, hip-hop and sporting personalities, including chart-topping rappers and sports stars from diverse and multicultural backgrounds.

In 2018, the Voice For Change documentary series returns as mentors share their personal journeys and challenges including racism, feelings of disenfranchisement, marginalisation and social inclusion. It's honest, it's truthful, it's real life.

In keeping with 2017, the new Voice For Change content series is edgy, confident, unapologetic and energetic and features Mentors including Ngaiire, Mohamed Komba (a.k.a.MoMO), FlexMami, Darcy Vescio, Mirrah, Krown, P-UniQue, Adrian Eagle, Ecca Vandal, Majak Daw and B Wise who kicks off the first episode Tuesday November 6, 2018.

Voice For Change 2018 is forging deeper connections with community by engaging young people through a series of interactive school workshops led by some of the best, and upcoming hip hop artists the country has to offer. These workshops will offer exciting practical opportunities and rare chances to work with well-respected musicians, community leaders and mentors across songwriting, talent development, recording, video and live music performance opportunities - giving youth direct access to inspirational mentors who are quickly becoming positive role models.

One of those positive role models is previously mentored Sudanese-born 20 year old rapper/songwriter Krown, who will be heading to schools across Melbourne as part of the music development workshops. Krown moved to Australia in 2009 and began writing and recording original music a few years later. As an emerging artist, Krown aspires to inspire by means of making impactful, story-telling music and being a mentor and leader for the youth.

Minister for Creative Industries Martin Foley said: "Music provides a very powerful means for young people to express their identity, explore their place in the world, build confidence and connect with others. Voice for Change will give young people an opportunity to tell their own stories and be inspired by the stories of others who have overcome adversity. Under the mentorship of some of Australia's most powerful emerging voices, they will also learn new skills and create their own music. Our government is proud to support it."

Michael Gudinski, AM Chairman, The Mushroom Group, stated: "Mushroom Group is proud to witness the impact Voice For Change has had within the community to date. It is humbling to see the positive response from the aspirational stories shared by these respected Australian musicians, sportspeople and community leaders; proving that success comes from a positive mindset and outlook, despite personal challenges. We are excited and committed to harbour and encourage the next generation of Australian Music Industry professionals and community leaders."

Stay tuned and follow our journey over the coming months as we talk with musicians, sports people, youth and emerging talent across our workshops, recording and live performances.

View the 2018 Voice for Change trailer: www.voiceforchange.net

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