More Than a Moment: Harpo Mander on the 5X Festival and the Rise of South Asian Music

Punjabi and South Asian music is receiving global attention, especially after the inaugural category of South Asian Music Recording of the Year at the JUNOs this year. To touch on the significance of this, Rhea is joined in conversation with Harpo Mander. Harpo is the Executive Director of 5X, which is the leading music and arts organization for diasporic Punjabis in Metro Vancouver. As a champion for South Asian artists, she has helped to transform the cultural landscape through advocacy, mentorship, and industry partnerships. As Co-Chair of the inaugural JUNOS South Asian Music Committee, Harpo has advanced national recognition for South Asian talent, and most recently made history as the first Punjabi woman appointed to the Board of BC’s PavCo.