For Tea Fannie, the work has never been just about the stage; it moves fluidly between performance, facilitation, and community building. She is creating spaces where people feel welcomed into the experience of music, not shut out by it.
TeaFannie is deeply invested in mentorship and education. Together with fellow leaders in the arts, such as Bethel Afework, executive director and co-founder of The Alcove Centre for the Arts, hip-hop artist Rubix, and Funk-E, they serve as program facilitators with Unity Charity in Alberta, working with young people through art, rap, and poetry programming.
Season two of the program launches in February, marking another chapter in her ongoing commitment to youth development, creative confidence, and expression.
While supporting others, Tea Fannie continues to nurture her own creative practice. She is currently working on a new music video for Be Loved, a track from her 2024 album, It’s All Love, which received critical acclaim, multiple YYC Music Award nominations, and national recognition. Though she is always creating, she remains intentional about pace, allowing the work to unfold without rushing the next step.
Sofar Sounds
In early 2026, Tea Fannie also stepped into a new leadership role as a producer for Sofar Sounds, bringing the globally recognized intimate concert experience back to Calgary. Known for secret venues and surprise lineups, Sofar Sounds centres connection over spectacle.
Tea Fannie’s first Calgary-produced Sofar show takes place on February 14, with monthly events to follow — each designed with accessibility and inclusivity at the forefront.
“I’m really focused on inclusivity right now,” she said. “And accessibility. That’s huge for me.”
Within the context of Black History Month, Tea Fannie’s work reflects a shift from celebration alone to sustained creation. By expanding access, mentoring youth, developing inclusive platforms, and remaining present in the community, she demonstrates how Black history continues to inform Black futures in real time.
You can see Tea Fannie at the Calgary Ethnik Festival (Feb 27 – Mar 1). The program schedule is not yet live. For more info, check ethnikfestivals.com.
