Young Female Leads - in conversation

What opportunities do young women have to make their voices heard and take on leadership roles in the creative sector? During Young Female Leads, Shirma Rouse, Kristie Su, Cécile Huijnen and Zeynep Dag will discuss these questions with journalist and author Dore van Duivenbode.

From music and media to fashion, the guests will share their experiences with opportunities, choices and leadership. The discussion will also explore the role of venues and the wider industry. There will be an opportunity for questions from the audience.

Meet the panel

Shirma Rouse
Shirma began her career as a backing vocalist for artists including Chaka Khan and Anouk, before establishing herself as a successful solo artist and acclaimed soul, jazz and gospel singer. Her album Shout It Out Loud won the Edison Jazzism Audience Award in 2015. She also works as a vocal coach and mentor.

Kristie Su
Kristie began playing the violin at the age of three. She is concertmaster of the Antwerp Symphony Orchestra and made her European solo debut in de Doelen's Grote Zaal in 2013.

Cécile Huijnen
Cécile previously served as concertmaster of Het Balletorkest and Phion. She presents Diskotabel, a weekly radio programme and podcast about classical music. In her book Ik vertrek, van ramkoers naar reset, published earlier this year, she describes her decision to stop playing the violin after 52 years and pursue a new direction.

Zeynep Dag
Zeynep founded the footwear brand Alzúarr, whose shoes have been sold to celebrities including Beyoncé and Rihanna. She is also the founder and CEO of the Business Fashion Academy, which prepares aspiring fashion professionals for careers in the industry.

Young Female Leads is part of Ander Perspectief and is made possible in part by Fonds 21.