Melissa Kolukisagil
Curator.
Cultural Producer.
Community Builder.
» Who are you and how did it all start?
I’ve been active in the music scene for several years, taking on different roles. Since I was 15, attending music and dance events has been a top priority for me. This hasn’t changed, even though I’ve explored many different subcultures and communities in various cities. From metal in Baden-Württemberg, to indie in Hamburg, and techno in Berlin, I was always searching for a place where I could feel completely at home. My fascination with music events eventually led me from political work into nightlife, where I became a night manager and booker. These were my first steps, often under terrible working conditions, with a lot of „learning fees.“
» That’s when you came up with İÇ İÇE?
Yes, all those experiences, including the challenges, eventually pushed me to create something of my own. This is how İÇ İÇE was born. In 2019, I saw a call for festival concept submissions in Berlin. Without any experience in applying for official funding, I decided to submit a concept. My festival idea was about giving space to all my sometimes-suppressed aspects and letting them dance together. Within ten minutes, the concept had its name: „İÇ İÇE“ (interwoven). İÇ İÇE has become more than just a music event for us: it is a place of gathering and respectful exchange through various formats and collaborations – in multiple cities.
» How has the festival evolved ever since?
İÇ İÇE has grown – we are now a team of seven people who bring and incorporate their experiences and perspectives. İÇ İÇE also appears outside Berlin, reaching people all over Germany, such as in Hamburg, Munich, Heidelberg, and, in October, Cologne! Our touring concept allows us to create new local connections depending on the city and collaborations, and we keep learning along the way.
» What challenges have you faced on the way?
For me, as a woman from a migrant working-class family, founding İÇ İÇE was a significant moment. I didn’t initially see myself as an entrepreneur, nor did I have the necessary contacts to set up a migrant-centered festival. I also doubted whether I would be taken seriously. What constantly drives me is seeing how the idea resonates with people, how gratefully the space was received from the start, and how much it continues to evolve. It has also become an important place for people from other diasporic communities, which means a lot to me.
» What else are you working on?
In addition to İÇ İÇE, I lead the ‚Diversitygerechtes Ausgehen‘ (Diversity-Oriented Nightlife) project at the Clubcommission in Berlin. We’ve developed a comprehensive training program on awareness and diversity competence, with 10 clubs, festivals, and collectives participating each year. One of the project goals is also to elevate the voices of underrepresented groups in Berlin’s club culture. Normally, I prefer to let my work speak for itself, but you’ll also find me on panels discussing political issues related to cultural work. I’m also passionate about radio and memory culture research, engaging with these topics in various formats.
Do you want to know more about Melissa’s work?
Go check out her socials:
Melissa’s Instagram
Melissa’s Website
İÇ İÇE Website
