Urban Development Music Industry Takeover

A huge well done to the LAET students who attended the Urban Development Music Industry Takeover at Rich Mix last week.

As a cornerstone event for next‑generation talent, the day offered an invaluable platform for aspiring creatives to learn from leading industry professionals, build networks, and deepen their understanding of the music business through panels such as How to Steal My Job, From Bedroom Beats to Broadcast, and the A&R Masterclass

Students had the chance to meet and learn from a wide range of high‑profile figures, including producer and sound engineer Duriel 'Komenz' Mensah (Burna Boy’s engineer), photographer Simon Wheatley, Radio 1Xtra producer Janelle Forbes, DJ and presenter Maria Hanson, A&R consultant Kat “Katalysst” Friar (Def Jam), and Radio 1 music editor Jade Style. They also watched Angelina Oviosa (Lina Sounds) perform on the main stage as part of the UD Live showcase. Komenz was particularly generous with his time, spending a long while speaking with our students and offering them advice.

A special shoutout goes to Richard (Y12), who stepped onto the main stage to take part in the closing cypher, led by Rude Kid (Kiss FM). And a huge thank you to Nife (Y12) for capturing the energy and highlights of the day through these fantastic photos.