Who we are

 
Rise to Overground was born from a deep respect for London’s underground creative culture — a space where raw expression, independence, and resilience thrive. As a collective, we were inspired by the energy of local DIY events and movements that operate outside of traditional industry structures. Our vision was to create something that didn’t just mimic that energy but elevated it — offering a bridge between underground authenticity and overground Opportunity. 

This event aimed to provide a professional platform for emerging talent, particularly from underrepresented backgrounds, with space for live performance, collaboration, and meaningful creative exchange.

The name Rise to Overground came to symbolise more than a title. It reflected the event’s mission to uplift creatives who often go unseen or unsupported, particularly in the intersections between music, fashion, visual art, and content creation. The term “overground” positioned our event as a step into visibility, professionalism, and structure — not by compromising roots, but by reclaiming space in the industry conversation. 

Beyond music, we wanted to integrate other creative industries like visual arts, fashion, and media to create an immersive experience and expand networking opportunities for all participants. Our vision was to host an event where an independent rapper might meet a filmmaker, or a photographer could collaborate with a stylist. This cross-industry dynamic made the event more than a show — it became a hub. Additionally, we aimed to build a cultural bridge between London and France’s underground scenes, opening dialogue and exposure across borders.