College for the creative industries Collarts teams up with ARN’s newest music platform CADA

Australia’s leading college for the creative industries, Collarts, has joined forces with new kid on the music-block, CADA; for a fully integrated partnership.

CADA launched in March this year, boasting an impressive line-up of hosts and creators, from TikTok stars and comedians to ARIA nominees and fashion designers. The Hip Hop and R&B platform replaced Sydney based radio station The Edge 96.1, but differs in its fresh approach, having already amassed a strong national following with its Gen Z demographic.

Says Chris Parkes, head of marketing and communications at Collarts: “It’s a perfect pairing. CADA shares our mission of developing and championing creative and diverse artists and talent, and to always be at the forefront of contemporary culture.”

The partnership, facilitated by media agency Match & Wood, kicked off over the weekend with CADA’s Avneesha and DJ Ziggy hosting an industry panel for prospective students and jumping into Collarts’ own Conversation Corner at the on-campus open day in Melbourne.

Ryan Hancock, communications director at Match & Wood, said the open day was just a taster of the multi-channel activity to come: “CADA is the perfect partner given their audience and authenticity. Like Collarts they are true champions of the creative industries, and their platform and talent allow us to showcase the meaningful careers that people can achieve in this space, reinforcing that “it’s only a dream ‘til it’s not”. Beyond this partnership the campaign extends into digital, social & out of home.”

Adds Parkes: “Avneesha has built a huge name beyond her radio show as a content creator with more than 2 million TikTok followers, and DJ Ziggy is known as a pioneer in the new-wave of Australian Hip Hop and R&B.

“Providing students with access to these types of real-world success-stories – people who have taken non-linear career paths to lead their industries – it’s a big part of what we do.”

From now until the end of year, Collarts students and alumni will be seen and heard across CADA’s digital, social and on-air channels, including an interview series with industry thought leaders, hands-on production and creative workshops, and internship opportunities within the wider business.

Says Andy Walsh, head of commercial strategy at CADA: “We’re so excited to work with Collarts, not only as the first education partner for CADA, but because of our strong alignment in values, and passion for creative industries. We are looking forward to rolling out some fantastic content together.”

Collarts is now accepting applications for courses starting September 2022. Catch CADA on iHeartRadio, DAB+ in every capital city or on 96.1FM in Western Sydney.