In this series, we will be profiling music professionals from all facets of the industry to learn more about their involvement in the CARAS Academy Delegate program.
Amanda Power is the Executive Director of Director of The Unison Fund. Inspired by her desire to be a part of the music industry, she became an Academy Delegate in 2003. Since joining, Amanda has had the opportunity to meet individuals in the industry that she may not have met otherwise and has helped support, acknowledge, and promote Canadian artists.
What inspired you to become an Academy Delegate?
Becoming a member of CARAS signified that I was a professional member of the community and officially part of the music industry I had aspired to be in. I had made my dream of working in music come true and I was now able to take an even more active role in the community I love.
Why is it important to be active in the Canadian music industry?
The Canadian music industry is always evolving. Change is inevitable, and if we want to create positive change it’s important to use our voice. Being a member of CARAS allows us to be informed and up to date with what’s happening in the industry and participate in those conversations on a professional level.
What do you enjoy most about being an Academy Delegate?
Being a part of a community that allows me to actively participate in CARAS and partner events.
Why do you think it’s important to promote and celebrate Canadian music and artists?
We have a vibrant and exciting music scene in Canada and that should be celebrated both within our community and internationally. Many of today’s top international artists are Canadian, our country is diverse and as Canadians we should do more to embrace and empower those voices.
Being a member of CARAS allows us to be informed and up to date with what’s happening in the industry and participate in those conversations on a professional level.
– Amanda Power
Why is diversity within the Academy Delegate program and the Canadian music industry so essential?
We have so much to celebrate within our industry and our community. Canada is a diverse nation, and we should be doing all we can to support, acknowledge, and promote those voices.
What has been your favourite JUNOS moment?
Some of my favourite moments are from when I worked at CARAS in 2009. I was able to gain an understanding of the complexities of how the Academy operates and how the JUNO Awards are executed. It’s a massive undertaking and I loved every minute of the challenge with the CARAS staff at the time, many of whom are still friends of mine today.
I always look forward to seeing friends and colleagues from all over the industry. The JUNO Awards weekend allows many of us from across the country, and from different genres of music, the opportunity to celebrate the past year and look forward to the year to come.
How does being an Academy Delegate allow you to help shape the industry?
Being an Academy Delegate provides me with the opportunity to meet individuals in our industry that I may not have met otherwise. As the Executive Director of Unison, Canada’s music industry charity, it is very important that I am available to learn from and support those in our music community that are facing challenges. Unison’s mission to support those in our industry during times of hardship, illness, and economic difficulties can only be furthered by listening and learning from each other. Being a member of CARAS is one way I can do this.
Why should fellow industry members apply to be a CARAS Academy Delegate?
I believe CARAS Academy Delegates are important for the strength and growth of our industry. It allows the next generation to learn from the history of the community, but also teach those who have been around for years. Conversation is growth, both for the older generation and the next generation of our community.
Applications for the CARAS Academy Delegate program are now open! Learn more about becoming a member and how you can help shape the future of Canadian music.