Featured Presenters

Mother Nature is the women-led hiphop force of Klevah and TRUTH—emcees devoted to building a legacy founded on defiance and self-discovery. best described as “fresh nostalgia,” The Chicago and houston-based duo is the answer for listeners seeking both substance and simplicity. As educators, they have mastered the ability to deliver weighty content through uplifting BARZ that pierce the conscience. Mother Nature has independently toured globally with the mission of rebuilding true HipHop culture, and impacts youth through their nonprofit workshop series The Miseducation of HipHop. With Peace and Love as their weapon and community at their foundation, these Thinkaz are on their way to provoking a pivotal shift in the next generation. 

I hail from the land of mystique and poetry—Iran. As an Iranian dancer, choreographer, and filmmaker emerging from the underground generation of artists in my country, I strive to explore the intersection of identity and art. I earned my BFA from Soore Art University in Tehran and am currently pursuing an MFA in Dance at Ohio State University. As an artist, I grapple with profound questions: Who am I as an Iranian artist? What is my essence? How can I navigate the dual roles of being both an artist and a woman in a challenging environment? My journey has often felt like a struggle for visibility; as a female dancer in society, I have wrestled with the complexities of my sexuality and artistry, both of which have been deemed unacceptable.  When I dance, I confront societal norms and transcend limitations. My work aims to evoke therapeutic benefits and challenge perceptions, particularly regarding the role of women in Iranian society. I believe that dance is not just an art form; it holds a crucial place in the cultural narrative, especially for women

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DJ Kandy Paint is a fresh talent on the scene, bringing a rich, eclectic background and a lifelong love for music to the turntables. Growing up surrounded by the sounds of Motown, she's developed an old soul with a modern twist, mixing genres and creating unforgettable experiences. Kandy Paint has already made waves at local community events like The ReDo and The Franklin Arts Scrawl, and she's just getting started. With a vision for creating the perfect vibe, mixed with her talent for blending diverse sounds, and perpetual love for music, DJ Kandy Paint is on a mission to bring her passion to every set. 

A social worker, DJ, cultural storyteller, and community leader, Dr. Adrienne Kennedy is dedicated to using music as a transformative tool for healing, empowerment, and advocacy. As the CEO of Pioneering Connections LLC, and a national trainer on permanency for youth in foster care, Dr. Kennedy seamlessly blends her passions for hip-hop, education, and social justice. Her work explores the intersections of sound, identity, and liberation, creating immersive experiences that challenge narratives and inspire resilience. Through her DJ persona, Sista Rhythm, she curates sonic journeys that amplify marginalized voices and foster community connection. Whether behind the decks or in the classroom, Dr. Kennedy uses music as praxis—leveraging rhythm, storytelling, and cultural expression to drive systemic change and personal transformation.