For those who don’t know you, tell us a little about yourself, where you are from, and how you first got into dance music.

I was born and raised in South Africa, but grew up in the US. I got into dance music via the Winter Music Conference. Some NYC friends suggested we attend as the South African tourism initiative was bringing artists from the country.

How long have you been a DJ? Tell me a little about your DJ career.

I have been a DJ for 2.5 years. When the Covid-19 pandemic started, I was not working and I asked my boyfriend to teach me. I started streaming on facebook and twitch and a few months later started playing at festivals, restaurants, and bars.

How did you get into dance music? What drew you to the scene?

When I attended WMC everyone was so nice, I got to meet people from all over the world and got to be introduced to upcoming DJs like Black Coffee, Culoe de Song, Themba (then Euphonic). Some of the people I met then — over 15 years ago — we are still friends.

Where do you live? How is the dance music scene where you live?

I currently live in Miami (previously 20 years in LA). The dance scene is well and alive for EDM and techno but less so for house, as younger people stay out late, drink more, and party harder. House, afro, and deep tend to be attended by older followers.

What is the first album or piece of music you bought for yourself?

Fresh and Euphonik. I don’t even remember which album.

If you had to recommend one album for someone looking to get into dance music, what would it be?

Mobi Dixon (The chapel, When House Was House),  Shimza (Fight to Love)

What is the biggest issue currently facing dance music?

For house music, there are few young people entering the scene in the US and Canada.

What is the best/most exciting thing happening in house music now?

For me personally, having the world tap into and appreciate more music/lyrics from South Africa. Since the Covid-19 pandemic we have been exposed to less known producers, DJs, and dancers.

What is your favorite place to listen to and experience dance music?

Anywhere and everywhere. From my speaker at the beach to music festivals in Mexico, the Bahamas, or a rooftop bar/restaurant.

Who are some of your favorite DJs? Who are some of your favorite producers?

Themba (DJ and producer), Ezel (producer), Desiree (DJ and producer)

Who has been your greatest mentor? Your greatest inspiration?

My boyfriend has been a great mentor, since he is the one who taught me to DJ and he is my best and most honest critic.

My greatest inspirations are Black Coffee, Themba, and because they come from the same country and started with financial disadvantages — as well as physical disadvantages for Black Coffee.

Do you feel satisfied with the role of women in dance music?

I will not be satisfied until there is more inclusion. The scene needs more females as promoters, DJs, and producers. Women are underrepresented.

Who are some of the women of dance music that you look up to?

Desiree, Debbie Graham, Anane Vega

How do you feel the dance music industry could improve in its treatment of/attention to female artists?

Hiring more females at festivals and concerts

Do you feel there are adequate opportunities for women at gigs, clubs, festivals, and radio stations?

It’s still pretty much a boy’s club; the opportunities are not enough. Females are starting to hire females, but male promoters would be wise to include more females in their lineups.

Where is your favorite place to hear house music, past or present?

At the beach in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico

What – or who – are you currently listening to?

Afro Brothers, Sha Sha, Lizwi, Toshi, Djeff

Where are you in the world right now and what are you up to?

In Miami. Working my 8-5 and DJing on weekdays/weekends and twitch. Traveling for gigs and pleasure.

Where do you see yourself in the future?

Playing in South America, doing an a North American DJ tour, and finally going to Europe and South  Africa for gigs and adventure.

Is there anything else you want us to know about you?

I grew up very shy until my early 30s, and house music has really helped me express myself from being on the dance floor to being behind the decks. Learning to DJ so late in life has showed me that I am the only one who can limit myself but if I want something, I can get it! It’s been an incredible 2.5 years.

You can catch Portia on MyHouseRadio.FM on Fridays from 5:00-6:00 pm EST and during Miami Music Week on March 23 at the Afro Latino House Showcase, 9Beach, 8:00 pm – 4:00 am.

https://www.twitch.tv/portialive