The Women Leading the Island Music Conference Deserve Their Flowers Now, Not Later
The women leading the charge at the Island Music Conference aren’t just behind the scenes, they’re shaping the culture, building community and making space for what’s next.
Every year for the past three years, I’ve touched down in Kingston, Jamaica for the Island Music Conference (IMC). And every year, the vibe gets bigger, the links get deeper, and the vision gets clearer. But this year, this one hit different.
There’s something soulful about walking into a space where you don’t just know the organizers, you’ve grown with them. Watching friendships spark between heavy-hitting panels, late-night bashments and jerk chicken excursion reminds me why we do this. These aren't just networking events; they are the blueprints for a better future for Caribbean people in the global industry.
But these spaces don't just "happen." They are built, nurtured and defended by Black women who work selflessly to ensure we have a seat at the table, WHEREVER that table may be.
Photo by Pichadis
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Founded in 2023 by powerhouse trio Sharon Burke, Judith Bodley and Shaggy, IMC is a multi-day masterclass. It’s where the world’s industry titans descend on Jamaica to pour into the next generation of Caribbean creatives.
As someone who’s been in this game for over 14 years, this year felt like a beautiful full-circle moment. Seeing peers I’ve come up with standing on stage dropping gems had me feeling like a parent watching their kid score during a school game. A few panels that really stood out for me were:
Day one kicked off with the “New Rules of Marketing,” where trailblazers like Portia Clarke and Shauna James broke down why your "story" is your greatest currency. Then, the heavyweights took the mic for the “Power of the Producer” chat. Stephen “Di Genius” McGregor, Kardinal Offishal, Major Seven and Yeti Beats reminded us that global hits aren't just about talent; they’re about perseverance and professionalism.
Day two was a legend-tier link-up. Seeing Alison Hinds, Shaggy, and Salt (from Salt-N-Pepa) sharing one stage for the “What Is Your Brand & Is It Forever?” panel was a moment for the history books. Hearing them talk about building a fanbase brick-by-brick was the ultimate humbling and inspiring experience. We also got masterclasses in PR and digital strategy from Francoise Blanchette and Adanna Asson, followed by a "Streaming Math" session where Yomi Desalu, Tuma Basa and Tanya Lawson dropped enough knowledge to fill a library.
Day three got deep with the “Beyond the Algorithm.” Brianna Harrison, Kyle Denis, and Rob Kenner reminded us that while everyone chases the "math," the real wins come down to time, place, and intention. I left that room feeling rejuvenated and ready to amplify the culture in every space I occupy. A favorite quote of mine is, “You don’t have to have the best to be the best. You just need to make the best of what you have.” The conversation really reinforced that for me. It can sometimes be difficult for Caribbean culture to receive the respect it deserves. Still, I’ve witnessed everyone on that panel do exactly that over the years, despite roadblocks they’ve faced.
This year, I stayed at the S Hotel Kingston, and let’s just say it’s my new permanent touchdown spot. It’s a fire boutique hotel right across from the conference, dripping in local art and vintage memorabilia.
There’s a vintage record player in every room, which is a vibe. But the real winner? The breakfast. There is no better way to prep for a day of panels than rolling out of bed for complimentary cornmeal porridge, festival and ackee and saltfish.
Photo by Pichadis.
But let’s talk about the engines behind this machine. Sharon Burke isn't just a co-founder; she’s a pillar in the Jamaican music scene. From managing Shaggy and TeeJay to producing Buju Banton’s historic Long Walk to Freedom concert, she’s a culture-shifter. Then there’s Judith Bodley, the Co-CEO and a radio titan whose influence spans from the airwaves to the lecture halls of Northern Caribbean University.
Watching these two women and their predominantly female team coordinate a schedule that moves hundreds of professionals is a masterclass in grace under pressure. In an industry that can be cut-throat, they are using their Rolodexes to open doors for aspiring musicians who are just looking for a footing.
Photo by Pichadis.
Being at the Island Music Conference made me stop and look at the map of my own journey. I am here because of the women who saw something in me before I did. Who nurtured me, took time with me, and gave me opportunities to grow and develop.
To the women I know and admire who have provided guidance, opportunities, and a safe space to grow, you deserve your flowers while you can smell them. To Isha Sesay, Tatiana Holifield-Arthur, Francoise Blanchette, Armelle Crump, Marie Theodore, Portia Clarke, Keecia Ellis, Brianna Harris, Zinhle Ngema, Ronnie Tomlinson, Nandy Mason, Babsy Grange, Ms. Pat Mckay, Melissa Elian, Melly Rose, Monik Carr, Nicole Brock, Charmaine Brown, Jennifer Charles, Marjorie Carr, Nicole Carr, Kimberly Harris, Tanya Lawson, Shauna James, Keturah Carter, Sydney Stewart, Donicia Hodge, Connie Orlando, Kim Paige, Jemilah Alghali, Joelle Carter, Mercedes Funderbunk, Ms. Pat, Bianca Ortiz, Ashle Mitchell, Brittany Ciera, Destiny Bishop, Aleia Woods, Patricia Meschino, Addana Asson, Tiffany Mea, Chrislyn Lashington, my sisters Tiffany Wright, Tanesia Harris, my grandmother Merrill Griffith, my beautiful mother Deborah Harris and so many others: Thank you.
I’ve been fortunate to be related to, befriend, and work alongside these trailblazers. They’ve shaped my career and helped me find my way through the fog. I see the power of your work, appreciate your presence, and I hope your legacies are cherished as much as they are respected.
