International Women’s Day 2025: How GemFest Is Empowering the Next Generation of Women in Music

The live music industry has long been a space dominated by men — especially behind the scenes, in roles like event production, bookings, logistics, and festival promotion. But that’s changing.

GemFest 2025, a brand new independent festival, is proudly female co-owned by Gemma Curtis — and it’s setting a new example for what leadership in live music can look like.

While many festivals are still slow to make progress on gender equality behind the scenes, GemFest is showing that representation at the top matters. From strategic decision-making to artist bookings and operational planning, women are leading the way — and inspiring others to do the same.

“The goal isn’t just to put more women on stage,” says Gemma. “It’s about creating the infrastructure where women are supported to build, lead and own the stages themselves.”

The Bigger Picture

According to the UK Music Diversity Report 2024, women hold only 14% of senior roles in music production and promotion. In the festival world, that number often dips even lower. Whether it’s the main stage or the boardroom, women are underrepresented — not due to lack of talent, but lack of opportunity.

That’s why GemFest isn’t just another event — it’s a platform. It champions young creatives, builds space for female voices in decision-making, and proves that you can run a successful, large-scale festival without following outdated industry models.

A Festival With Purpose

Alongside its mission to stay affordable and inclusive (with tickets at just £80), GemFest is committed to working with female artists, suppliers, and event professionals across the board — from marketing and stage management, to traders, DJs and headline acts.

By giving young women access to these spaces, GemFest is helping build the next generation of industry leaders — not just festival-goers.

This International Women’s Day, GemFest is proud to stand as an example of what’s possible when women lead.
And we’re only just getting started.