Cathy DiToro has been involved in the D.C. music scene for more than 10 years, and her involvement in the music industry made her realize: women in music industry needed to be treated more equally. Cathy realized that there were so many talented women in the area, and these women needed opportunities to connect with each other, as well as, an avenue to promote their music. Therefore, in 2017, Project HERA was developed.  Project HERA is a nonprofit that Cathy created to empower female musicians of all ages and support their endeavors in the music industry!

The project’s mission statement,posted on their website, states that, “Project HERA’s mission is to foster and nurture a musical community of positivity, growth, empowerment, and unity for women and girls. We strive to support women in music by providing opportunities for them to not only perform and share their music, but to also connect with other like-minded individuals, strengthening the network as a whole.”

The main focus of Project HERA was to create a music festival that would be female-focused, all-ages, and would highlight younger artists, as well as, those musicians with more experience.  This year, HERA Fest celebrated it’s third year and it took place at the City Winery in D.C. This was an all-day event and featured so many wonderful female musicians of all ages!  In addition to music, the festival also included all female-run vendors to promote their artwork and projects.

Project HERA is dedicated to celebrating women in the arts, as well as empowering young girls to chase their musical dreams. Please visit their website and follow them on Facebook.  Enjoy just a few photos from the event on Sunday at City Winery in D.C. Featured artists in the photos include, StoneCold, Tatum Jolee, Hannah Jaye & the Hideaways, Kayla J, Hayley Fahey, and Jehlum. It was always encouraging to see so many young female photographers doing their thing!