​Behind the Artist: Building Careers That Last

​A Masterclass with Erin Duran | Donnway & Co.

​What does it really take to build and sustain a successful artist’s career?

​Join Erin Duran, Manager for Don Toliver, and a 2026 Girl Connected mentor, for an exclusive masterclass exploring the strategy, creativity, and relationships behind building a lasting career in music.

​With over a decade of industry experience, Erin has helped shape some of hip-hop’s most influential projects and played an integral role in Don Toliver’s evolution into a global superstar. From his earliest releases to a remarkable year of career-defining milestones, including his latest album Octane debuting at No. 1 on the Billboard 200, Erin has been a driving force behind the scenes, helping translate artistic vision into sustained commercial success.

​Erin began her career in A&R at Epic Records before working alongside renowned executive Sickamore, contributing to projects including YG’s Still Brazy and Travis Scott’s Birds in the Trap Sing McKnight, ASTROWORLD, and JACKBOYS. Her early creative involvement with Don Toliver eventually evolved into a management role at Donnway & Co., where she has helped guide every chapter of his recording career.

​Returning to the Girl Connected community after serving as a mentor in the 2026 mentorship program, Erin will share firsthand insights into artist development, long-term career strategy, building effective teams, navigating industry relationships, and balancing creative ambition with the business decisions that drive success.

​An inside look at what it takes to build an artist's career from the ground up—and create success that lasts.

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​About Girl Connected
Girl Connected is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering driven women professionals through a multilayered, local-to-global platform that fosters professional success, inspiration, and long-term growth.

​Through a robust ecosystem of programming including in-person and virtual events, our global mentorship initiative (GCMP), and an expanding Masterclass Series open to the wider creative community we provide the tools, knowledge, and connections women need to advance their careers and bring their ideas to life.

​Our events and special projects offer guidance on navigating challenges, strengthening focus, and charting sustainable career paths, while our guest speakers share real-world insights on leadership, influence, and cultivating a positive, inclusive culture. At its core, Girl Connected is a community built on collaboration, curiosity, and opportunity supporting women as they evolve, create, and lead across the music and creative industries.

​Girl Connected programming is made possible in part by funding from FACTOR and the Government of Canada.