Women-only DJ workshops from AlphaTheta kick off in MENA at Soho Garden

For the first time, AlphaTheta brings its Start From Scratch DJ workshops to the MENA region this weekend, offering women a hands-on experience with cutting-edge DJ equipment and the fundamentals of mixing in a supportive and inclusive setting in Dubai. This unique opportunity allows participants to dive into the basics of DJing while learning techniques from DJs Mira and Off Kourse, who will also share their insights on navigating the electronic music scene as women.

Four free Start From Scratch workshops are scheduled at Soho Garden nightclub, in collaboration with Little Pink Book, a platform supporting women in music, and the local DJ training hub Dubai Sound Academy. Set for November 2 and 3, the sessions will have a strict women-only policy, including venue staff, to ensure a comfortable and private atmosphere for attendees who may prefer such an environment due to cultural or personal considerations.

Start From Scratch is AlphaTheta’s initiative to provide free DJing access to underrepresented communities, offering workshops that introduce the essentials of DJing or help refine skills, alongside practical advice for succeeding in the industry. These community-focused workshops are led by experts within the relevant local community, often hosted at nearby DJ schools. Some participants also have the opportunity to continue on the Start From Scratch Accelerator Programme, which includes a fully funded DJ course, culminating in a live set at a specially organised club-style event.

Ellie Donovan, marketing executive at AlphaTheta comments, “We are incredibly proud to be running our first-ever DJ workshops in the MENA region, designed to be culturally sensitive and inclusive, with a special focus on empowering female talent. This initiative represents a significant step in creating spaces where women can explore their passion for music and DJing in an environment that respects and embraces their cultural preferences.”

Roberta Hickey from Little Pink Book adds, “It's such an honour for Little Pink Book to partnering with AlphaTheta launching Start From Scratch in the Middle East. LPB is focused on offering resources and opportunities for females in the industry to drive towards equality, so this initiative is the perfect fit. There is so much incredible talent in the region so it is so exciting to play a part in discovering new & emerging DJs and hopefully be the start of the journey for some future stars of dance music.”

Talking about the workshops, Off Kourse says: “Start From Scratch is important because it helps emerging DJs find their voice and build the foundation they need to succeed in this ever-evolving industry.” Looking forward to the sessions, her co-tutor for the workshops, Mira, added: “The Start From Scratch programme has inspired me to explore new horizons in the art of DJing. It’s a place where creativity can be ignited and talent can be polished. I’m grateful for this amazing opportunity to meet with new people from different communities, all gathered for the passion of music.”

To join Start From Scratch, register using the links below. The workshops will be held on the following dates.

2 November 2024
11am-2pm (completely male-free environment)
3pm – 6pm

3 November 2024
11am – 2pm (completely male-free environment)
3pm – 6pm