Natalie Nicholas

Natalie qualified from the University of Nottingham with a first-class Master’s degree in Physics before going on to inspire young people through science in secondary education. These days, you’re more likely to find her playing a hard techno DJ set at an underground rave than explaining atomic structure to a classroom of sixteen-year-olds. More recently, with her lab coat swapped for a high-vis vest and walkie-talkie, Natalie has traded lecturing teenagers for directing multi-stage events on grassy farmland in the deepest depths of Cornwall. Her platform, Freestyler Events has an ethos rooted in rave culture and synchronising outside of capitalistic structures, with a big emphasis on community spirit over commercial enterprise. Natalie has received recognition and support from The Arts Council for her influence in making positive change in the music industry with her diverse line-ups and inclusive spaces. Natalie’s passion for inspiring young people continues through her work with Amplify, a Community Interest Company supporting teenagers across Cornwall through education in DJing and electronic music production. As a social entrepreneur, she uses music as a tool for cultural change by championing underrepresented voices in the music industry and creating spaces for social connection.