Meet The Breakin’ Convention Team
Breakin' Convention's work is made possible thanks to a dedicated team of talented individuals. Together, our backgrounds and expertise continue to push frontiers, create new opportunities, and advocate for the future of hip hop theatre in the UK and beyond.
Jonzi D
Artistic Director
Artistic Director Jonzi D is the founder, ambassador, mentor, host and driving force behind Breakin' Convention.
He shapes every aspect of our work with his creative input, from curating our festival and events to steering our education and professional development programmes.
Michelle Norton
Director
Michelle’s career at Breakin’ Convention began at the very first edition in 2004. With a background in performance and arts management, Michelle progressed from Festival Volunteer to Projects Coordinator, to her current role as Director - leading the organisation. Michelle is the embodiment of Breakin’ Convention, having worked the festival inside and out from its genesis.
michelle@breakinconvention.com
Contact Michelle for:
Productions
Collaborations
London festival
Artist performance enquiries
Emily Labhart
Programme Manager
Emily Labhart is a freelance Creative Producer who has worked in the cultural sector, commissioning & co-producing creative work across the UK, for 10+ years.
Emily has a strong network & credibility within the industry. From producing large-scale outdoor festivals, to international Hip Hop events, right through to bespoke projects with artists specialising in Dance of the African Diaspora – Emily works collaboratively with artists to take great projects to the next level.
Developing relationships based on genuine care and shared beliefs, Emily’s portfolio includes: Birmingham International Dance Festival, Fiya House, Julia Cheng / House of Absolute, O’Driscoll Collective, Brooke Milliner / When Time Was New, Immediate Live and Dancehall Origins.
Shay Rafati
Learning Projects Manager
Shay D is a rapper, poet and event promoter who has been providing a platform for artist for over a decade. Working with the leading practitioners in the field of hip hop education, Shay is at the forefront of Breakin’ Convention’s push for developing the confidence and skills of young people and accrediting hip hop theatre as a recognised qualification, working towards our hip hop academy.
As an artist, Shay D champions women in music and works actively in balancing out the female voice in rap music.
Daniella Ekundayo
Senior Marketing Officer
Daniella is a creative producer, strategist, and founder of INTHEWRITERSMIND, a platform fusing underground music, visual storytelling, and journalism. With over 12 years of experience, she’s worked across music, media, and dance—interviewing, filming, and producing content for brands, artists, and platforms like CNN’s Great Big Story. She’s marketed artists like Flowerovlove and collaborated with choreographers including HomeBros and Prabhleen Oberoi.
As Senior Marketing Officer at Breakin' Convention, Daniella bridges the gap between music and dance communities. Known for spotting talent early, she helps creators and brands grow audiences, build community, and create meaningful partnerships, with a sharp A&R sensibility and journalistic roots.
Mareih Belocura
Breakin' Convention Trainee
Mareih is a recent graduate of the University of East London, where she earned a BA in Urban Dance. With a passion for hip-hop, contemporary, and ballet, she thrives on the energy of performance and the joy of teaching. Mareih has showcased her skills in various productions, where she loves to blend styles and tell stories through movement.
Outside the stage, she enjoys working with youth groups in London and Brighton, sharing her knowledge of dance and inspiring the next generation of artists. As a Breakin' Convention Trainee, Mareih is eager to dive deeper into dance production and explore creative ways to connect with audiences. She believes that dance is not just a form of expression but a powerful tool for community building and personal growth.