Interview – Valentina Georgoulopoulos
© Meerfreiheit
Empowering Communities Through Music: Valentina Georgoulopoulos on Inclusion, Outreach, and Redefining Success in the Arts
How can music become a true tool for social change? What does it mean to move from a corporate career into designing programs that empower marginalized voices?
In this episode of The Art She Manages, I talk to Valentina Georgoulopoulos, cultural strategist, outreach specialist, and champion of inclusive arts education. Valentina’s story is a powerful example of following your curiosity and using your skills to build real impact.
She studied law with a focus on human rights before pivoting from the corporate world at Mercedes-Benz into the cultural sector. She’s led programs for nonprofits, collaborated with top orchestras like the Mahler Chamber Orchestra and Camerata Salzburg, and uses the arts to build inclusive, community-driven initiatives.
Why this conversation matters
Valentina shares an honest look at how the arts can engage communities far beyond traditional audiences. She reveals what it takes to build trust, how to design projects that truly empower, and why she chose to leave secure jobs to become self-employed and fully dedicate herself to her mission.
Whether you work in community arts, are a cultural leader, or simply want to see how creative work can drive change, Valentina’s perspective will deeply inspire you.
You’ll learn
How Valentina shifted from corporate project management to arts and social impact
Why she believes music can (and should) be used as a tool for empowerment
How she approaches working with diverse communities, from teenagers to deaf and hearing impaired students in Uganda
The realities of building inclusive projects, including funding and overcoming skepticism
Why she prioritizes intercultural exchange and what she hopes to see change in the arts sector
"Music isn’t just for entertainment — it can actually change how people see themselves and each other."
"I always focus on the ones I reach, not on the ones I don’t. That’s where the real impact is."
"Empowerment is at the heart of all my projects — that’s how I define success."
Resources & ways to connect
Listen to Valentina’s conversation about one of her community-driven projects, “WELCOME HOME!” here
Learn about the Mahler Chamber Orchestra’s Education and Outreach here
Subscribe to podcast on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube so you don’t miss new episodes
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