Mundial Montréal is back for its 16th edition, taking place from Tuesday, November 17 to Saturday, November 21, 2026. Once again this year, more than thirty showcase artists and over 300 music industry professionals will come together to celebrate the richness and diversity of global music. While we await the announcement of the first names in the artistic lineup, we are delighted to introduce the five jury members who will support the selection process for Mundial 2026.

We would like to highlight the essential work of our programming committee, composed of five experts from diverse backgrounds within the music industry: Cécile Doo-Kingué, Kristyn Gelfand, Lia Camille Crockett, Michaël Bardier, and Naji Rizeq.

Thanks to their expertise and commitment, numerous artist submissions were carefully reviewed — a thorough and invaluable process that we would like to recognize. The full 2026 artist lineup will be announced in the coming weeks and months!

1.Cécile Doo-Kingué
One of Canada’s most renowned guitarists, Cécile Doo-Kingué is an award-winning singer-songwriter recognized for her captivating stage presence and musical versatility. A prominent figure in the blues, roots, soul, and funk scenes, she has shared the stage with internationally acclaimed artists, released four critically acclaimed albums, and toured around the world. Cécile currently serves as Chair of the Board of Directors of Folk Canada.

2.Kristyn Gelfand
Kristyn Gelfand is a Toronto-based artist, producer, and presenter with over twenty years of experience creating spaces dedicated to music and artistic expression. Since 2012, she has collaborated with Uma Nota Culture, where she presents events and artists that bring together global dancefloor-oriented sounds, performed by both live bands and DJs.

3.Lia Camille Crockett
Lia Camille Crockett is a music curator and creative producer driven by the power of live music to bring people together. With over 15 years of experience in the music and media industries, she has served as a programming consultant for Latin music at SXSW, produced the NPR Tiny Desk Contest, and led programming for BRIC Celebrate Brooklyn in New York. She is currently Music Curator-at-Large at the Brooklyn Academy of Music (BAM) and Associate Director of Programming at The Office of Performing Arts. In 2022, she founded Parcha Projects, dedicated to supporting independent artists from the Caribbean and its diasporas.

4.Michaël Bardier
Michaël Bardier has been a talent agent for 19 years and is the founder of Heavy Trip, a Montréal-based agency created in 2013, specializing in experimental, avant-garde, jazz, electronic, and genre-defying artists. He is also the founder of OK LÀ, a concert series dedicated to innovative music and performative cinema. Alongside his work in the music industry, Michaël has worked for six years as a cultural mediator for the City of Montréal, developing artistic initiatives rooted in communities and fostering connections between artists, community organizations, and citizens.

5.Naji Rizeq
Naji Rizeq is a senior producer and co-founder of MARSM Canada and the UK, where he develops and produces live music events, tours, and cultural programs in Canada and internationally. With over eight years of experience in artist development, programming, and event production, he works closely with artists, presenters, and festivals to support international touring and cultural exchange. His work is driven by a desire to connect artists with new audiences and create meaningful opportunities for artistic collaboration.