YolanDa Brown, 3pm - 4pm
For many, global touring and critically acclaimed albums suffice. Not for YolanDa Brown, who excels as a musician, broadcaster, author, and philanthropist, driven by passion and vigor. A double MOBO Award winner, her music blends reggae, jazz, and soul. She’s toured with legends like The Temptations and Jools Holland, and collaborated with Dave Stewart of Eurythmics and Snarky Puppy’s Bill Laurance. YolanDa’s compositions grace iconic shows like Sesame Street and Netflix’s CocoMelon Lane. In 2023, she received an OBE for her contributions to music and broadcasting. She chairs BPI, organizes major music awards, and was appointed Deputy Lieutenant of Greater London in 2022. In 2024, she became Chancellor of the University of Kent and serves on various influential music and arts panels. YolanDa also launched educational initiatives and the Drake YolanDa Award to support young musicians. Her broadcasting career spans TV and radio, presenting on platforms like BBC and Jazz FM. An entrepreneur, she launched the London Saxophone Festival and the restaurant Soul Mama, setting a global crowdfunding record. Additionally, YolanDa enjoys racing cars and solving Rubik’s Cubes, showcasing her multifaceted talents and commitment to excellence.
