Interview
Lili-Rose Elsom
Co-founder of Convergence · Founder of Quantum Drift & Universal Frequencies
- 01
What is Universal Frequencies and how did it start?
Universal Frequencies was born from my love for music as a healing force and a desire to give back. From the beginning, it was never about profit. It was about creating a space where people could connect through sound while contributing to something meaningful. I started running events in 2016, originally through more traditional charity drives and community-focused initiatives. Over time, that experience evolved into creating something more immersive and expressive, which led to Universal Frequencies. All profits currently go back into charity and improving the festival experience.
- 02
What makes Universal Frequencies different from other events?
We are building something with intention, not chasing quick returns. Any income generated is reinvested into charitable contributions and into making each event better than the last. What sets us apart is the combination of immersive design, conscious artist selection, and a structured philanthropic model.
- 03
How has your experience since 2016 shaped this festival?
Running events since 2016 has taught me resilience, planning discipline, and the importance of transparency. Starting with traditional charity drives gave me a strong foundation in accountability and community responsibility. Universal Frequencies is the result of years of learning what works, what does not, and how to build something that can grow sustainably.
- 04
Why is charity such an important part of your brand?
Because Universal Frequencies was never created purely as a business model. It was created as a movement rooted in contribution. Supporting charitable causes is part of our core identity. Impact should not be an afterthought. It should be built into the structure from day one.
- 05
What is Convergence, and what is your role in it?
Convergence is a collaboration between Universal Frequencies' Quantum Drift and Residual, bringing together different sides of the underground techno spectrum through Psytech, progressive and forward-thinking sounds. My role within Convergence is largely behind the scenes. I help orchestrate the lineups, artist communication, marketing, content, website management, and the charity component, while also overseeing many of the finer details that bring the event together. A big part of my role is making sure that the event stays aligned with the bigger Universal Frequencies vision — creating meaningful experiences while creating meaningful impact. Convergence also carries that purpose directly into the event model, with 50% of the proceeds going towards Universal Frequencies, which is run by Global Reboot NPO. This allows the event to contribute directly to the organisation's wider work and our vision of Creating Change Through Music.
- 06
How do you select artists?
Artist selection is based on alignment, professionalism, and energy. Talent matters, but so does integrity. I look for artists who understand that their performance is part of a larger ecosystem that includes music, community, charity and brand growth. Building the right lineup is not only about individual artists — it is about creating a collective experience that feels authentic.
- 07
What has been your biggest lesson as an organizer?
That leadership requires both creativity and discipline. Vision is important, but execution is everything. I have learned to balance passion with structure, and purpose with practicality. There are so many moving parts behind an event that people never see, and learning to manage those details while keeping the bigger vision alive has been one of my biggest lessons.
- 08
What is next for Universal Frequencies?
Continued growth. Stronger partnerships. Elevated production. Expanded charitable impact. The foundation has been years in the making, and the intention is to scale responsibly while staying true to our core values of music, unity, and contribution.
