The jury

With a passion for showcasing the best undiscovered and under the radar musicians from across the UK, Jess Iszatt is the host of Radio 1’s flagship BBC Introducing show.

Filip is a music programmer at Colours of Ostrava. Together with the founder of the festival he makes decisions on the lineup for 7 music stages and 8 discussion stages. That includes booking over 120 bands and around 200 speakers from all around the world.

French-Morrocan music journalist and fervent digger Kenza Naaimi El Fezzazi works as much in writing (Red Bulletin) as on the radio (FIP) or in podcasts (Beldiya, Ma Première Fois). She strives to highlight committed, relevant and cutting-edge artists.

Each year, the artist who wins the Public Choice Award will be juror for the following year. French icon, multi-instrumentalist and overall music genie Zaho de Sagazan will be judging this year.

Annika leads the International Music Strategy team at Spotify, a global team that spans multiple countries, time zones, cultures and languages. Named in the 2024 Billboard International Power Players list, Annika's 17 years in the music industry also include roles at Universal Music Group International and more.

Bryan Johnson is responsible for leading the development of creative partnerships and educational initiatives at Spotify. He is dedicated to enabling artists and their teams to find and develop their audience.

Cindy Castillo knows her way around the music industry as CEO and Founder of Gigantic Music Management & Booking and as the head of Mad Cool Festival.

Gemma Bradley is the BBC Radio 1 go-to for the best new music. She champions a vast array of genres and great acts and is praised for her fun, warm, and humorous approach to presenting.

Under Kevin Cole’s direction, American radio station KEXP has evolved from a purely Seattle oriented station to a globally revered nonprofit arts organization. It is dedicated to enrich listeners by championing music and discovery.

Huw Stephens is a trusted voice in UK music, known for his tireless support of new talent. He presents on BBC Radio 1, 6 Music, Radio Cymru, and the World Service, and is a regular face on the BBC’s Glastonbury coverage. He also curates stages, hosts awards shows, and runs a monthly live night in London.

Katia Giampaolo is Co-Director of Bologna’s Estragon Club and the open-air Botanique Festival. She leads the Italian branch of the Europavox Project and chairs MMF Italy, driven by her passion for music, people and big ideas.

Wilbert Mutsaers is Head of Content at Spotify Benelux and former CEO of Mojo Concerts. With past roles at NPO 3FM, Radio 6, FunX, Universal and Sony Music, he brings decades of experience in music, media and strategy. He co-founded the Dutch Pop-Coalition and advises the Dutch government on creative policy.

Julia Gudzent began her career as a German tour promoter for acts like The 1975, Robyn and Years & Years. At Melt Booking, she developed unique concert series, including the first ever at Berlin’s Berghain. She now programs for festivals like Melt, Lollapalooza Berlin, Body & Soul, Untold and Neversea.