15/09/2026
This weekend, I stepped up as a mentor for Ministry of Sound Club Boxed In competition - even though I’d originally planned to enter as a contestant. When the Managing Director Caitlin at Ministry of Sound posted that she was looking for a female DJ mentor, I messaged her. She took a chance on me, and I took the opportunity.
The 12-hour livestream was like The Voice or The X Factor for DJs: 30 contestants, six mentors and a series of intense challenges. I joined an incredible line-up alongside Via Seri, G33, Jakkob, FISH56OCTAGON and Mak10. Most contestants didn’t know me, so the more familiar names were picked first - & honestly, I’d have done the same 😂
Then SAM PHONIC stepped up. His risky transitions, clever wordplay and calm, humble energy caught my attention immediately. FISH56OCTAGON and I both wanted him, but Sam chose me to be his mentor. Now it was on us to see how far we could go.
From blind beatmatching and live requests to building mashups on the spot, the pressure was intense. Honestly, Sam didn’t need much help, but my advice stayed simple: keep calm, keep it clean and enjoy it. And that’s exactly what he did.
After a tie-breaking final, Sam won £25,000 worth of equipment and studio time, plus a Ministry of Sound residency. Neither of us could believe it. But he definitely deserved it!
I came away feeling very lucky, but when I really think about it, it wasn’t just luck: it came from putting myself in the room, building genuine relationships and trusting what I bring before I felt completely ready. So here’s your reminder. You don’t have to be the biggest name to make a big impact.
And NEVER underestimate the underdog. 😏
Big thanks you to Tafara Makopa for producing such an amazing show!
