ABOUT
The Women in Jazz Association of British Columbia is a registered, non-profit society in B.C. that holds events and fundraisers to empower women and people of marginalized identities in the jazz scene. Founded in 2017, the association was formed out of a need to create safe and inclusive spaces through events, performances, and career development. The WJA aims to make the jazz scene more inclusive for people of all genders and sexualities.
One of the WJA initiatives is Sister Jazz the Blog, which focuses on bringing womxn and GNC (Gender Non-Conforming) individuals into media content surrounding jazz music and highlighting Canadian and International jazz musicians. Sister jazz consists of the Sister Jazz blog which you can visit on this site, along with a Facebook page.
For our constitution and meeting minutes please connect with us.
FOUNDING MOTHERS FOR WOMEN IN JAZZ & SISTER JAZZ THE BLOG
Jessica Heaven
Co-Founder
Jessica is a vocalist who received her Diploma in Jazz Studies from Capilano University . She also has a degree in Anthropology and Communication from Simon Fraser University. She hopes to attend her Master in Peacebuilding and Human Security at Royal Roads University in January 2020.
Jessica Toplak
Co-Founder
Jessica is a recent graduate from the Capilano University Jazz program. She currently resides in New York City. A singer and songwriter, her work in "Tinyvic" does not go unnoticed.
Laura Dunfield
Co-Founder
Laura graduated from Capilano University in 2013 and has been playing and teaching music ever since! A mind for composition and a photographer. You can find her at Staccato Studios.
BOARD FOR WOMEN IN JAZZ & SISTER JAZZ 2019
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Jessica Heaven
Christine F. Hudson
Chair & Trustee
Blog Editor
Secretary
Jessica is a vocalist who received her Diploma in Jazz Studies from Capilano University . She also has a degree in Anthropology and Communication from Simon Fraser University. She hopes to attend her Master in Peacebuilding and Human Security at Royal Roads University in January 2020.
Christine is a Vancouver based composer, pianist and vocalist. After her graduation from the University of Toronto (B. Mus.), Christine moved to Vancouver to continue her music education at Capilano University (Dipl. Jazz). She currently teaches piano, voice and theory. She enjoys exploring the hiking trails of BC in her spare time.
Kaya Kurz
Board Member at Large
Kaya is a vocalist, songwriter, and soon to be graduate of Capilano University's Jazz Studies program. She is passionate about feminism, LGBTQIA+ rights and inclusion, and a good cup of earl grey tea.
Jessica Davis
Delegate from Seattle Women in Jazz - Learn More!
Jessica is the Founder and the Executive Director for Seattle Women in Jazz.
HELPERS FOR WOMEN IN JAZZ & SISTER JAZZ
Clarice Scop
Blogger
Cindy Dai-Thiessen
Event Support
Alexa Peters
Blogger
Natalia Pardalis
Social Media Support