Women in Music
Emerging Artists
The Australian Women in Music Awards Conference (AWMA)
by Frederique Jackson , October 28 2025.The AWMA conference was held on the 8 October at the Queensland Multicultural Centre,
Kangaroo Point. Vermilion Records in collaboration with AWMA participated in many facets
of the day; whether that be as audience member, volunteer, internship role, or performing
artist.
Vermilion artists Hati and Poppy Isabelle formed a duo to entertain the conference attendees
at the start of the day and during the breaks. Casually set up in the foyer of the venue, they
brought a relaxed vibe which showcased their amazing talent. Hati and Poppy Isabelle
performed a range of songs, accompanied by acoustic guitar and keyboards; choosing a
selection from each of their own solo material, as well as tunes from their band Elsewhere.
Vermilion’s own Sofia Cirino, professionally multitasked; managing and coordinating the
Vermilion artists and their live performance, as well as coordinating Vermilion’s social media
team, and in her role as marketing and production assistant for Milestone Creative
(responsible for event marketing at the AWMA) filmed some b-roll footage to add to the
AWMA socials content.
Social media team Shamia Lily and Joey Devietti, recorded behind the scenes footage, made
infographics, and interviewed the conference speakers; brilliantly capturing the energised
atmosphere of the day for the AWMA’s social media accounts in collaboration with Vermilion
Records.
Regardless of their role, all came away from the conference having gained a greater
understanding of the Australian music industry and the important part women and gender-
diverse artists play within that space.
The conference organisers are to be congratulated for ensuring a vibrant, welcoming
environment was created through their choice of engaging forums and the professional,
relatable speakers who spoke passionately about current issues affecting women and gender-
diverse artists in the Australian Music industry. Master conference convenor, Yumi Stynes,
commanded the stage and brought insightful questions and discussion to the various forums.
As outlined in the AWMA’s conference program, the day started with the forum Juju,
Munjimunjina Jangkurr – Words from Deep in the Bush: First Nations Women’s Journeys
with Arrkula Yinbayarra which centred First Nations women in music, storytelling and
cultural leadership, and their vision to keep culture strong in their remote community. The
second forum The Young and the Restless, focused on the voices and visions of young
female and gender-diverse creatives shaping the future of music. The afternoon started with
the ‘In Conversation’ session, featuring music photographer Brittany Long, in discussion
with music journalist Tiana Speter, about the highs and lows of her career, navigated on
wheels; championing representation and accessibility at live venues. The third forum
Balancing the Mix: Redefining Tech explored innovation, equity and opportunity in music
technology, sound production and digital creation. The conference finished with Leading
Through Disruption: Innovation and Adaptation which was a forum that challenged the
belief that gender equity has already been achieved and looked at new leadership models to
create a positive and lasting impact for future generations.
Next year’s conference will no doubt again provide a compelling mix of forums. To stay up-
to-date with all AWMA news go to https://womeninmusicawards and follow them on any of
their socials.