During my time at AFROPUNK, I developed the AFROPUNK [AP] ARMY, a volunteer corps that included the Earn A Ticket program and volunteer ambassadors for the festival markets in Brooklyn, Atlanta, Paris, London, and Johannesburg. Members of the AP ARMY could earn a ticket to the festival by supporting both digital and in-person initiatives. Additionally, the AP ARMY served as a support team for the festival itself, shadowing various department heads to gain insights into the industry.

Biggest takeaway: Seeing individuals who were once volunteers become official staff and department leads for AFROPUNK and other festivals because of their hard work ethic and passion for live events.