Alumni Update: Michelle Owen, Entertainment Business Management (Music Business)

Michelle Owen graduated from the Entertainment Business Management Diploma Program at Metalworks Institute in 2014. Shortly after graduating, Michelle secured a job at Black Box, a record label, management and publishing company based in Mississauga, as an executive assistant.

Just recently, Michelle transitioned from executive assistant to label services, and continues to work as the company’s full-time grant writer. Her varied duties include creating and executing marketing plans, overseeing artist social media pages, and helping with assorted day-to-day tasks.

“As a grant writer,” says Michelle, “I am responsible for completing tour, marketing, sound recording and business development grants for both our artists and the company with FACTOR, OMF, Music Nova Scotia and AFA.”

Michelle freely admits that “If I had not attended Metalworks, I would not be working at Black Box…Metalworks prepared me for this job by educating me on the fundamentals of the business, and by being honest about the realities of the industry. This is a very tough business, and you need thick skin in order to succeed. I’m thankful for the teachers who were always honest, even when it was hard to hear, and who motivated me to be my best.”

While working full-time at Black Box, Michelle continues to pursue her passion of creating and performing music. Over the past year, Michelle has been working to launch her new band, Harlow. The group is currently recording their first EP, aiming for an early June release.

“My passion for music is the reason I attended the Entertainment Business Management Program at Metalworks, and why I continue to work in the business. Every day, I learn and experience new things and am extremely grateful for everything both Metalworks and Black Box have taught me.”