Name: Kara Harris
Company: AEG Presents
Job Title: Promoter
Starting out in roles at DICE, Village Underground, Earth Hackney, and Recess/No Signal, Kara Harris moved over as a promoter at AEG Presents in September 2021. Grounded in a deep appreciation for music of Black origin, in her first two years at AEG, Kara has curated an impressive roster of artists, including FLO, No Guidnce, Dylan Sinclair, Josh Levi, Maeta, Khamari, Tamera, Durand Bernarr, Natanya and many more. Beyond her professional achievements, Kara is a passionate advocate for representation and diversity in all facets of the industry. Recognizing the importance of visibility and mentorship, Kara is committed to informing the next generation of the many opportunities available to them. She wholeheartedly believes in the idea that we can all find fulfillment by pursuing our interests and that there are countless avenues within various industries to do so. Kara continues to shape the future of music promotion while actively paving the way for a more inclusive and equitable industry landscape.
Question 1: Who would you say is someone pivotal to your journey so far?
My mum. Even when times were difficult, she always encouraged me to keep pursuing what I love and always saw my future so clearly even when I couldn’t see it myself. We have our daily debriefs and she’s always on hand to help me make difficult career decisions, encourage me when I feel lost and celebrate my wins too. I couldn’t have done any of this without her encouragement, belief and love.
Question 2: Who would be your ideal mentor, and why?
I don’t have an answer for this one, sorry!
Question 3: What advice would you give the next Trailblazer looking to break into your field?
Your network and community are so important. Having people around you that you can build with, that will bring up your name in certain rooms, that will put you forward for opportunities, that can give you career advice and encourage you when you need it or even just be there to laugh with about some of the crazy things we go through and/or see in this industry is my most important piece of advice. Surround yourself with people that inspire you, that you respect, that have the same drive or ambition as you, that you enjoy being around. Always make sure to do the same for them too but trust me, it makes the journey so much more fun.
Question 4: Who would you like to spotlight as your Trailblazer?
Shanae Dennis, agent at Wasserman. She is building such an amazing roster over there, she is so driven, caring, intelligent and hilarious. She has already achieved so much but she’s gonna go on to do big things in the live music world.