Ana (Pogo by her nickname) is a young professional who has a major love for people, music and advertising. Ever since 2022, she has been running the social media channels for UNTOLD Festival and been helping, on-site, the other festivals of the UNTOLD Universe portfolio: Neversea, Massif and UNTOLD Dubai.
Q: How does the music industry look like to you in 2024?
A: Firstly, I think everything could be related to music. Your feelings, your thoughts, your day – everything could be influenced by it. Talking specifically about the music industry from a festival organizer point of view, is for sure one of the most exciting, tempting and fast-paced environments I’ve (personally) got in touch with. Is a world where you cannot say that you know everything, because something new is coming, and coming, and coming… :))
Q: What are the main challenges that a young person faces when starting out in the current music industry (in Romania)?
A: I think the most common one could be the fact that – overall – in the music industry (talking about everything: artists, tour managers, labels, festivals) young people have to prove more what they know, compared to people over 30. I found myself lots of times in the place where my point of view or opinion wasn’t taken into consideration just because ‘’I’m young and I don’t have enough experience.’’ Not specifically at UNTOLD, but in other projects I took part in. So, basically, we have the challenge to prove that even if we are at a young age, we know what we’re doing.
Q: What is the professional achievement of which you are most proud?
A: Being part of the UNTOLD team, for sure. And all that came with it. From super nice campaigns to all the hard work during the festival. But most importantly, I’m super proud that people are supportive and have lots of trust in me and my powers. It’s super important for me to have inspiring people around, and let me tell you: this team is really the S#$T.
Q: How did you break into the music industry?
A: The first touch with the music industry was through my brother. He took me to my first concert when I was 10 or so. Few years later, he became a concert photographer and that really inspired me, so I had this goal in the back of my head to work for a music festival. Then things just happened. I pursued this dream and met the right people at the right time.
Q: What piece of advice would you give to a young person dreaming of working in the music industry?
A: Put passion in everything you do. Believe in your own values. Don’t be too hard on yourself. Be authentic. Stay strong.
