FemFest: USC's Annual Counter-Patriarchal Music Festival

FemFest is an extraordinary annual music festival organized by the Student Assembly for Gender Empowerment at the University of Southern California (USC). This student-produced event challenges patriarchal norms in the music industry, offering a platform for underrepresented voices to shine.

Mission Statement

"FemFest aims to be an inclusive safe space that highlights those oppressed by the patriarchy in the music industry. Intersectional at our core, FemFest is open to everyone, and specifically amplifies the voices of women, people of color, and those within the LGBTQ+ community."

Student-Led Production

From strategy and booking to hospitality, fundraising, marketing, and execution, FemFest is entirely produced by dedicated USC students. This hands-on approach provides invaluable experience in event management and advocacy.

2023 Highlights

The 2023 edition of FemFest featured an impressive lineup, including pop-”Femininomenon” and the rising star Chappell Roan. Notably, FemFest served as a launching pad for Roan's career, offering her first-ever headline slot at a festival. This performance preceded the release of her record-shattering debut album, "The Rise and Fall of a Midwest Princess."

Record-Breaking Attendance: For the first time in its half-decade history, FemFest sold out completely, selling over 300 tickets. This milestone demonstrates the growing popularity and impact of the event.

Diverse Lineup: The festival featured a mix of established artists and emerging talent

• Jenevieve and G Lune: Talented artists who added to the festival's diverse musical offerings.

• Student Performers: The event showcased USC's own talent, providing a platform for student artists to perform alongside established acts.

Accessibility Initiative: The 2023 event saw the establishment of a dedicated accessibility team. This new initiative highlighted the diverse needs of audience members, ensuring that the festival was inclusive and enjoyable for all attendees.

Student-Led Success: The record-breaking ticket sales and successful execution of the event underscored the capabilities of the student organizers, demonstrating their ability to produce a professional-level music festival.

Personal Contribution

As the Director of Digital Media and Hospitality, I played a pivotal role in ensuring the success of FemFest. My responsibilities included:

• Developing and implementing the festival's digital media strategy

• Managing social media accounts and online presence

• Coordinating hospitality for performers and attendees

• Collaborating with other team members on overall event execution

• Strategizing innovative media ideas to promote the event

• Capturing media content during the festival

• Editing and distributing photo and video promotional materials and teasers

• Overseeing the creation and dissemination of engaging content to build anticipation and increase attendance

My work in digital media and content creation was crucial in building buzz around the event, attracting attendees, and documenting the festival's success. This hands-on experience allowed me to develop and refine skills in event promotion, content creation, and digital marketing within the music industry context.

FemFest continues to be a powerful force in promoting diversity and inclusivity in the music industry, providing a unique platform for emerging artists and empowering the next generation of music industry professionals.