Find Your Kuumba: A Celebration of Local Music, Art, and Community

Milwaukee, WI — July 10, 2025 — Girls Rock MKE and The New State are proud to present “Find Your Kuumba,” a vibrant afternoon of music, art, and community at the Kuumba Coffee & Juice (274 E Keefe Ave, Milwaukee, WI 53212) outdoor space in Milwaukee’s Harambee neighborhood.

This free, all-ages event takes place Saturday, August 2 from 12–4PM, featuring a dynamic mix of live music including Lily Slay, Super Ego Beats, a community open mic led by Girls Rock MKE program alumni band Nail Polish, and youth DJs from The New State. Attendees will enjoy an array of artist vendors, food and beverages from Kuumba, and interactive and educational activities, including live sound, stage management, and DJ mentorship and a community art project.

“This event embodies the spirit of kuumba — creativity — which means using your creative self to make your community more beautiful than how you found it,” says Joe Ferch, Co-Founder of Kuumba. Dima Pochtarev, Executive Director of The New State, adds, “‘Find Your Kuumba’ is what happens when we make space for young people to lead and express themselves through music, art, and community. Events like this are how we build a future where youth have access to the tools, mentorship, and platforms they deserve.”

The event will spotlight a new youth-led partnership between Girls Rock MKE and The New State and offer a platform for youth musicians to share their voices. Performances will be emceed by a special guest from the Girls Rock alumni network, and community partners will be on site to build connections and spark ideas for future collaborations.

Get Involved

• Artist Vendors: Local artists will be tabling and selling work throughout the event.
• Sponsorships Welcome: Girls Rock MKE and The New State are seeking sponsors to help make this and future programming accessible and impactful.
• Volunteer and Support: Connect with us at the info table to learn how to support youth music education in Milwaukee.

About the Organizers

Girls Rock MKE empowers youth and adults through music education and performance, creating inclusive spaces that center self-expression, collaboration, and confidence. For more information about Girls Rock MKE, follow @girlsrockmke on social media or visit girlsrockmke.org.

The New State is a youth-led music hub and venue committed to amplifying young voices through access to creative resources, mentorship, and opportunity. For more information about The New State, follow @newstatemke or visit https://www.newstatemke.org/

For press inquiries, sponsorship information, or to sign up for the open mic, please contact maryjoy@girlsrockmke.org or newstatemke@gmail.com.

NOTE: This press release was submitted to Urban Milwaukee and was not written by an Urban Milwaukee writer. While it is believed to be reliable, Urban Milwaukee does not guarantee its accuracy or completeness.