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Sound Engineer (Mixing, Mastering & Live Sound) A London-based Lebanese sound engineer working across mixing, mastering, and live sound. She first explored audio through sound design while studying musicology in Lebanon before moving to London to complete a degree in Audio Engineering and Production at ICMP London. Today, she collaborates with emerging artists and creative communities, with a focus on supporting SWANA voices. |
Heritage: Lebanese |
Location: London (UK)
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Tell us a bit about yourself
I’ve always been drawn to music. I started learning guitar as a teenager and gradually expanded into audio through musicology studies in Lebanon. During that time, I worked as a sound designer for a small game development startup, which gave me my first hands-on experience with audio. Eventually, I decided to fully pursue audio engineering, which led me to move to London to study. Since graduating, I’ve been working as a sound engineer, collaborating with artists across both studio and live environments.
What does your average day look like?
A lot of my time is spent organising projects and planning how I want to approach them. From there, it’s hours of focused listening, working through details, refining balances, and making sure everything translates properly. It’s very laptop-based work, but taking breaks is essential because it can be mentally and physically tiring for the ears.
What is a common misconception about your role?
Many people assume I’m either a DJ or a producer, which I’m not. Sound engineering is its own role. It is about shaping, enhancing, and delivering sound in a way that serves the artist’s vision rather than creating the music itself.
What is your most & least favourite part of the job?
My favourite part is working with different artists and getting to hear new, unreleased music. It is a privilege to be trusted with that process.
My least favourite part is the long hours spent working alone, and the uncertainty that can come with freelancing, especially at the beginning of your career.
An important skill/trait for success in your role
Patience, flexibility, and attention to detail. Artists are deeply attached to their work, it is their baby, so it is important to listen carefully, explain decisions clearly, and make them feel comfortable throughout the process. In live sound especially, things can go wrong unexpectedly, so staying calm, adapting quickly, and trusting your skills are essential.
Tell us a bit about your industry journey
I started out in live sound, supporting bands and working at church events, then gradually moved on to larger events and fundraisers. Through networking, I connected with SWANA Records, and we shared the same goal of supporting SWANA artists. We have been working together since 2024. This industry requires a lot of putting yourself out there. It can be intimidating, but it does pay off. I am still figuring things out, but each step builds confidence.
Describe when you knew that you wanted to pursue a role in the music industry
I was always interested in the music industry but never thought it was a realistic path for me. That changed when someone close to me encouraged me to take the leap and helped me get my first sound engineering opportunity. Sometimes all it takes is support and a push to believe it is possible.
How does your heritage affect your experience within the industry?
Growing up in Lebanon has definitely shaped how I hear and understand music. Interestingly, I used to dislike Arabic music when I was younger, but after moving to London I realised how important it is to my identity. The music I grew up around, whether I appreciated it at the time or not, has influenced how I perceive rhythm, melody, and instrumentation. It also motivates me to work with artists from my region and help bring those sounds into wider spaces.
Tell us a moment you are most proud of in your journey so far
I am proud of how far I have come and where I have ended up. Five years ago, I never imagined this would be my path. I am especially proud of contributing to how SWANA music is seen and heard, and of being part of a growing community that supports that.
Your advice for someone entering the industry
Developing your skills on your own is important, but going out, meeting people, and building relationships is just as crucial. Do not be afraid to make mistakes because that is how you learn. I have held myself back many times out of fear, and looking back, I realise I would have grown faster by simply trying.
Your 5 music selects from the community
• Elyanna
• Fairuz
• Mashrou’ Leila
• Saint Levant
• Yasmine Hamdan
Of course, there are many more brilliant artists I enjoy listening to. This is just a small selection.
