Kayla Cooper
Kayla Cooper is a music champion who believes great art can come from anywhere, especially the North. Raised in the Northwest Territories, she now serves as Executive Director of Music NWT, where she builds programs, partnerships, and opportunities that help artists from remote and Indigenous communities thrive. She is also President of the iconic Folk On the Rocks Music Festival, a cornerstone of Canada’s northern music scene and a launchpad for local artists. Through her work, Kayla blends community knowledge, policy insight, and a passion for amplifying voices that deserve to be heard.
“I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to participate in the Keychange Talent Leadership Programme and strengthen my leadership skills, expand my global network, and gain tools to better support artists and my community. This experience will help me bring new knowledge home and build more sustainable opportunities for artists in the North.”