Meet The Founder
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Audrey French is a Canadian artist, choir director and the creative mind behind GospelFest, Edmonton’s first gospel festival. Inspired by her father’s love for gospel music, Audrey has been performing since the age of three, gracing stages across Edmonton and around the world.
Audrey’s faith lies at the heart of her artistic endeavours, serving as a source of hope, encouragement, and constant joy. She firmly believes that gospel music is for everyone — understanding that it’s sound and joy has influenced the world far beyond religion. Championing the need for diverse voices at the heart of Edmonton's arts scene, Audrey's work is dedicated to creating spaces for Black artists to soar, evolve, and thrive.
Audrey lives by the belief that "If anyone can make a difference, everyone can" — underscoring the truth that no one is too young, too different, or too insignificant to make a tangible imprint on the world around them. Her ultimate vision is to build thriving gospel spaces in Edmonton and beyond, fostering intentional community and opening doors for Black creatives for generations to come.
GospelFest was born from a dream to bring Gospel music to life in Edmonton in a way it never had been before. In a city known for its dynamic and culturally diverse festivals, Audrey recognized the need to create an event that celebrates the rich culture, history, and beauty of this beloved art form. Through storytelling, song, food, and community, we celebrate the grandeur of gospel music and an unshakeable joy that has survived ages.
If anyone can make a
difference, everyone can
“The tapestry of my life has been woven from three main threads of my identity – my faith, my culture, and music. My hope is to create platforms to use my gifts, fervour, and leadership to impact my community, and inspire the kind of change I wish to see in Edmonton and the world at large. If anyone can make a difference, everyone can – that is my heart's posture, commitment, and continual motivation. I am eager to pioneer a first-of-its-kind festival that will, with hope, have a lasting impact on the cultural fabric of Edmonton for years to come.”
