QMusic has revealed the key members of its newly formed Safety and Diversity Advisory Group (QSDAG) which aims to steer collective conversation and drive tangible change with strategic advice and accountability measures.
Chaired by ARIA award-winning music photographer and safety advocate Michelle Pitiris, the group meets for the first time this week. QSDAG will support the activities of QMusic and provide insights and advice on how events that are delivered by QMusic are better, inclusive and provide absolute safety for Women, First Nations and LGBTQIA+ artists and industry, as well as working with venues and key stakeholders to ensure their safety needs.
Other members include Cat Clarke, Co-Owner of Brisbane music venue, The Zoo, Cub Sport’s Zoe Davis, Director of the MATE Program & Chair of the Board of Directors at DVConnect Shaan Ross-Smith, DJ, producer and radio presenter dameeeela, Lead Consultant at the Neuroleadership Institute Bridgette DiFerdinando and ARIA Award winning musician Thelma Plum.
Group Chair Michelle Pitiris says her goal is simple: make tangible change. “Being a part of QMusic’s Safety and Diversity Group is something I am incredibly proud of, and with the strength of our team, I hope to synthesize some real, lasting difference that ensures any person in the community feels safe, seen and supported.” she says.
Cub Sport’s openness with fans has helped develop a culture of love and inclusion around the band and Zoe Davis is eager to bring an artist’s viewpoint to QSDAG. “As a musician it is so important to me that people feel safe, comfortable and included at shows and events, and I think this group is a great opportunity to think about what more could be done to help achieve this,” she says. Zoe joins QSDAG alongside DJ, producer and radio presenter dameeeela who is eager to see change not only within her scene but within herself. “I am excited to make positive changes in my unique everyday spaces. Also super eager to share and learn from my team to better not only our industry but myself too,” she says.
