The Glossary: Rudi Minto de Wijs | Head of Curation
What is your role in music and what does your day to day look like?
I’m the curator of Jumbi, a venue in Peckham that platforms voices from the African and Caribbean diaspora. My day-to-day involves programming events, booking DJs, and working closely with artists, collectives, and brands to create thoughtful and meaningful experiences. A key part of my role is ensuring the space stays rooted in community, that means prioritising underrepresented voices, nurturing long-term relationships, and staying responsive to what our audience needs. At the moment, the team and I are particularly focused on our summer plans, including a month-long community festival (still TBA!), as we look to grow our impact while keeping things intentional and, hopefully, really fun!
How did you get into your line of work?
I came into this line of work quite organically. Mainly through a mix of grassroots event organising (aka throwing parties that lost a lot of money), a deep love of music and art and a desire to create spaces that feel like home for people who are often left out of the conversation. I started out throwing small parties and community events, which led to roles in cultural institutions (Tate, Palais De Tokyo) and venues (XOYO, Phonox and Jazz Cafe) where I developed my curatorial voice. Over time, I realised I was most fulfilled when working at the intersection of music, culture, and community. Trying to make spaces where people can come together has been a priority of mine.
What skills are important in your job?
I don’t come from a traditional curatorial background, and I think that can be one of my strengths. I came into this work through community organising, throwing events, and being deeply embedded in music culture. Learning by doing rather than through formal training. I’ve been fortunate to have great mentors along the way who’ve shared knowledge, challenged me, and helped me grow. In terms of skills; programming, budgeting, and developing partnerships are all key, but soft skills like empathy, adaptability, and cultural sensitivity are just as vital. So much of this role is about listening, building trust, and holding space, which are qualities that can’t always be taught but are essential when working with people and communities.
If someone is excited to do what you do, what advice would you give them?
Just start. Honestly, try things out, say yes to opportunities, and don’t be afraid to change direction, it’s rarely a straight line. A lot of what I do now came from following my passion, trusting my gut, and learning by doing. Throw a night, help a friend with their project, reach out to people you admire, write a shit article on a comedown. Every experience builds something, even the ones that feel random at the time. Don’t get too caught up in having the perfect plan. Curating, especially in music, is about energy, connection, and care so put yourself in the mix and keep moving. You’ll find your rhythm as you go.
What have you found surprising about your role?
One thing I’ve found surprising is how little peer-to-peer knowledge sharing there is in this space, especially given how many of us are figuring things out as we go. So much of this work happens behind the scenes, and it can feel like you’re constantly reinventing the wheel. But there are gems out there, people who openly share, support, and uplift. I’ve learned so much from figures like Charlie Dark, Mirella Van Balen, Bradley Zero, Nathanael Williams, Achim Borchardt Hume and Catherine Wood, who’ve each shown what it means to lead with care and openness. That generosity has shaped how I try to show up for others too.
What are your top 3 tips for someone who wants work in the music industry in general?
- Never feel afraid to ask questions
- Failure is the best teacher
- Always understand why you’re doing what you’re doing
Jumbi is currently hiring a General Manager, read more and apply here.
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