Ilona Deuring

Ilona Deuring (she/her) is Project Manager of European Talent Exchange (Exchange) and EU Policy Officer at Eurosonic Noorderslag (ESNS), Europe’s leading showcase festival and conference in the Netherlands. Exchange helps European artists who have played ESNS reach new audiences through 130 partner festivals and connects 23 core members and 5 associated members, including 26 music export offices. Ilona leads this international programme across 40+ countries, coordinates a team of five, and builds partnerships across the music industry. She focuses on aligning policy and industry priorities while embedding diversity and inclusion into the long-term strategies of ESNS and Exchange.

“The industry is still highly male-dominated, especially in positions of power. I personally feel really strongly about making the music industry a safe space for women, non-binary people and other marginalised groups to develop a sustainable career. In my current role, I discuss these issues with our members/partners, but it still feels like a drop in the ocean. Through Keychange, I will be able to expand my network and knowledge and create a bigger impact.”
— Ilona Deuring
NetherlandsFrieda SchuhLeader