In this episode, we sit down with DJ Suly, a mental health advocate and rising DJ in Halifax's music scene. Suly shares her incredible journey from discovering female DJs on TikTok in 2022 to opening for major acts like Black Bones and DJ Puffy within just one year.

She breaks down her origin story, how a conversation with her best friend led to learning from mentor DJ Henry and throwing a surprise reveal party that shocked everyone. Suly explains the technical side of DJing while diving into her experiences as a young Black woman in Halifax, her passion for psychology, and her plans to become a child psychologist.

Beyond the music, she opens up about using DJing as therapy, breaking barriers in male-dominated spaces, and advocating for mental health in the Black community. From controllers and cue points to poetry and personal growth, Suly's story is about embracing challenges and following your passion.

Find out more @dj.suly_

What happens when a child is handed an instrument they never wanted to play? Cuban violinist Ali Enriquez’s story begins with this exact twist of fate: assigned the violin in Havana’s rigorous music school system based on her small hands, she initially resisted the instrument that would later become her voice. Now a seasoned performer and composer in Canada, Ali reveals how she transformed resentment into artistry and how music became her bridge between cultures.

Ali shares hilarious and heartfelt memories of mandatory piano classes, the shock of adapting to Canada’s fast-paced life, and why her violin has become “a companion that’s seen me cry more than anyone.”

Between unpacking the differences between melodic and harmonic instruments and demonstrating her songwriting process (from “giving birth” to songs to moments of effortless flow), Ali shares how she fell in love with her craft.

Find out more @alien.riquez

In this inspiring episode of The Blackout Podcast, host Israel sits down with the multi-talented Jewelz—a skilled carpenter, passionate DJ, and advocate for mental health and women in trades. Jewelz opens up about her unexpected journey into carpentry, from discovering her love for woodworking through the Women Unlimited program to the realities of working in a male-dominated field (including a nail gun mishap!). She shares how carpentry isn’t just a job but a creative outlet that connects her to her childhood dreams.

But that’s not all—Jewelz also dives into her electrifying side hustle as a DJ, revealing how music became her therapy and a way to build community. From overcoming stage fright to the joy of watching crowds vibe to her mixes, she reflects on the power of trying new things and embracing your "spark." Along the way, she gets real about mental health, the importance of self-chosen therapy, and why balance is a messy but beautiful act.

Whether you’re curious about breaking into trades, chasing creative passions, or just need a reminder to "shut the fuck up" to your inner critic, this conversation is packed with humor, heart, and practical wisdom. Tune in and get ready to feel inspired!

Meet JEWELZ! Born and raised in downtown Dartmouth, she is quickly making a name for herself in the local Halifax Electronic music scene. Her infectious and high-energy sets ensure that you will not want to leave the dance floor. Also, she’s a registered Apprentice Carpenter who recently graduated from NSCC’s Carpentry Diploma program and completed the Women’s Unlimited program.

Jewelz has been a part of the local festival scene for years. Entered the scene as a festival goer in 2017, now she stands proud as a dedicated member of Blackbox Sound Crü & East Coast Emo Night

She’s a huge 140 Dubstep and Drum & Bass fan. She loves to spin tunes and create good vibes for the crowd. She is also very excited to show up and show out for her first festival set at Future Forest Music Festival this August

@jewelz_vibez