The programme was inspired by Gráinne Hunt and Megan O’Neill’s (co-artistic directors) experiences as touring artists and was devised to address the challenges female and gender expansive artists face in the music industry. A passion for songwriting was essential while playing an instrument was not required but encouraged.

Throughout the week, participants received one-to-one mentorship and worked alongside experienced WOMEN+ producers, photographers, videographers, and session musicians. They wrote and recorded an original song each, arranged them with a live band, and performed them in a final concert.

Each participant finished with a fully produced song, professional photos, a live performance video, and invaluable insight into the music industry.

The camp was a resounding success. Over five days, nine young female identifying songwriters participated in an immersive experience that combined songwriting, production, mentoring, and live performance. Each participant completed an original song during the camp, with hands-on guidance on the writing process from Megan and Gráinne. The participants then worked with two exceptional female producers, Lisa Murray and Jessica Richardson to record and produce a professional sounding demo. These songs were then performed live on the final day at Riverbank Theatre in front of an audience of family, friends, and community supporters.

The camp not only nurtured creativity and confidence among the participants, but also directly supported 11 female professionals working within the creative industries – including producers, performers, engineers, and visual media creatives. The energy, collaboration, and talent displayed throughout the week were truly inspiring, and the feedback has been overwhelmingly positive.

The camp ran in July 2025, culminating in a full house showcase.