Championing equity and inclusion on behalf of the global majority

Published: 8th February 2026

In the latest episode of The Music Education Podcast, brought to you by Charanga, host Chris Woods talks to Sharon Jagdev Powell.

Sharon has 29 years of experience in music education as a Head of Music, music project manager, and Music Hub Leader. She currently works as the Director of Brent Music Academy and as the Music Education and Programme Manager at Black Lives in Music, an organisation dedicated to strengthening links between education and industry while championing equity and inclusion.

In addition to sharing personal experiences, Sharon highlights the inequality of opportunity for Black, Asian, and Ethnically Diverse people seeking to learn instruments and realise their musical ambitions as artists and industry professionals.

Listen to the episode

Try it yourself - take a free 30-day trial

See what Charanga can do for you and the young people you work with.

  • A customisable library of songs, creative tools and interactive teaching resources
  • YuStudio®, a beginner-friendly DAW for schools
  • Unlimited access for every teacher and student at your school
Start free trial