''Being a woman in the music industry is a bumpy ride, but it's rewarding if I can contribute to a safer, more positive workspace. I can't lie; you need to be tough and not give up.'' - Jade

Introducing Jade, a passionate female DJ who's making an impact in the music industry. Coming from the Netherlands, she's walking her own path in a field that often isn't fair to women. Jade's journey shows the hurdles she faces while advocating for fair recognition, better pay, and more diverse line-ups. Her determination, driven by a deep love for music, inspires her to push boundaries, make a difference, and embrace inclusivity.

In each interview, we explore the experiences, insights, and triumphs of inspiring individuals who are making a difference in their fields. Discover how Jade inspires others and find strength in her story.

How do you experience working as a woman in your specific field or industry?

I must say that it is a very bumpy ride but at the end of the day really rewarding, if I can mean something for the women in my industry or contribute to a safer/more positive workspace for women in my industry (short or long-term). I am an event organizer and dj currently based in the music and event industry in the Netherlands. I can’t lie. You need to be tough and there is no way that you can give up in this scene. Otherwise people walk easily over you and you will lose yourself a little by little, and sadly being a women means you are suppressed in the creative industry. Having women with pure hearts, warm and positive aura/energy’s and for instance a hard-working ethic will lead to growth and balance in this sometimes negative or toxic industry. That’s my opinion about it.

I experience a certain amount of pressure and expectation being a female in the music industry. I need to run harder for my fees (money), for a well deserved spot on a lineup, for breaking the bias about women that are not capable enough having a better spot in comparison with all the males. These are a couple of examples to share. There are also enough males that put in the work and support the women, and that’s a start, but “glue-ing” the gap between these 2 groups is in my experience a long-term goal to achieve in the future. I am doing my best to stay energy-balanced (mind & body), positive and have a warm and open attitude hoping to change mindsets and behaviors, so we will all be good to each other in the end of the day :)

In a world that often puts limitations on women, how do you use your hands to break barriers and redefine what is possible?

I use my hands and mind to slowly break barriers in this scene. For instance: I know my worth in money at the moment as a dj. I gradually raise this fee, not only because I live up to my name and craft and it’s well-deserved, but to start a process where the industry will think about paying women equally or more than it is at the moment. So if we (women) all raise our fees gradually we will set a new standard. This is also applicable to programming a line-up based on gender diversity, overall diversity (programming poc) and talent. I find this veeeeery important and this is also my ‘battle’ in this scene till the day I will leave the scene for good. And I will never stop or give up when I have the power and reach to speak, educate and do something about it.

We all face moments of self-doubt and setbacks. How do you find the strength to overcome obstacles and continue pursuing your dreams?

The most important thing that gives me motivation every time i’m working or when I’m busy in the music industry is the fact that I have so much passion and love for music to share with the world. I found a hobby that I could turn into my job. And I looooove my job. I know that motivates me to pull through, to always move and speak from my heart and never give up on me and the scene. I trust in myself that I’ll bring, even if it’s the slightest changes in the industry for me. For the newer generation and more. I will always represent women and do my best to contribute to a loving and safer environment for everyone!

Instagram @jadesoul_

We often find inspiration in the people and experiences that have influenced us along the way. Who has been the biggest inspiration or role model in your life, and how have they impacted your personal and professional growth?

This one is hard. I grew up not having a connection with both of my parents. My grandma raised me for most of the time and she’s the reason I am who I am today! I think I inherited her warm and open energy, giving love to people and being the best person I can actually be. My other role model is Jyoty. I think I can write a whole book about why she is that role model for me but to make it short: Her passion and commitment to educate people what’s right, to stand up for minorities in the scene talking about women, poc (people of color), her own origin, upcoming dj’s, really talented creative people that are suppressed and overshadowed by bigger people or parties and so the list goes on. She really sets her mark on this world and before I leave this world someday I want to leave that mark of my own too. These 2 people have a huge impact on my personal growth. I take them as a lead for every stap I take to make a difference on this world.

Professionally I will dedicate the spot to some creative friends of mine that pushed me through and also inspired me to work harder as a dj and creative. I want to thank Darryl Antunez & Oten for having the biggest hearts and the guidance in the beginning of my dj career. They were the first to help me out and want to see me succeed. Big up to S!RENE, Nala, Eileen, Hunter and Sojuju. The friends and dj’s where I had a lot of conversations with, helped me through and are so inspiring for me as a dj. August Mae, who is an amazing producer and dj, for being the best support system. I think there are a few that believe so much in me and my craft as August does. Technically I have a lot of role models. From Jaël to Lady Shaka, Drea to Blaize, Bao G to Folamour. They all inspire me technically to bring the best out of myself and perfection the art of dj’ing.

Last but not least a shout out to 2 power women I know: Nhi for being the best friend and the most supportive and amazing manager to me. To Jolani Jhones for being an amazing soul, great dj and a dj colleague to me that inspires me and really challenges me to bring the best out of me with every dj set I do!!!!

We hope that Jade her story has inspired you and encouraged you to embrace your own journey of self-acceptance and resilience. Let us all celebrate our flaws, believe in our worth, and use our platforms to make a positive impact. Together, we can create a world where every woman feels empowered, accepted, and beautiful in her own skin.

Read more inspiring interviews and become a part of #FRENCHYFORHER, where we shine a light on the stories of women who are making a positive impact in their fields and inspiring others on their journey.