“How do I restart my career and explore options in the United States after emigrating from India?

I have my own live music event company in India, but I moved to the states and now want to start a career here in the electronic music industry. Based on my experience, I’m looking for junior or assistant roles as a talent agent, artist relations specialist, or artist manager.

Also, any volunteer position in an agency or company is something I am willing to explore if it means getting my foot in the door. I want to know if there are any workshops that I can attend as well to learn more about starting off fresh in the electronic music industry.” — American Dreamer

This week’s response was prepared by Queer Capita Board Member, Sam Moura.

Hi American Dreamer,

Welcome - and give yourself some credit. Moving to a new country is one of the bravest things a person can do. Your experience running a live music event company in India is more transferable than you might think. You already understand the bones of how events come together - logistics, artist coordination, audience development, budgets. The shift now is about learning the U.S. electronic music landscape and building relationships within it.

Get in the room. Winter Music Conference during Miami Music Week is the move - it has industry panels, workshops, and networking sessions built for exactly this kind of career pivot.

Know the key players. Agencies like THE·TEAM (formerly Wasserman Music), CAA, WME, and UTA all have electronic music divisions and regularly hire assistants and coordinators. Those entry-level roles are one of the most well-worn paths into talent booking and artist management. Boutique agencies and independent management companies are also worth looking into - they often give you more hands-on experience early on.

Volunteer with intention. Your instinct to volunteer is spot on. Festivals, promoters, and venue teams frequently need help, and showing up consistently is how you build a reputation. Even a few months at the right company can turn into a paid role or a referral that changes everything.

Finally, lean into your story. The U.S. electronic music industry is increasingly global, and your understanding of international markets and live event production in a completely different context is an asset, not a gap on your resume. This industry runs on relationships, and relationships take time. But you've already done something most people only dream about: you packed up your life and bet on yourself. Now it's just about doing it again, one connection at a time.

— Sam Moura