International Mixer at UK House with Sister Cities International
Looking to meet Austin’s international community during SXSW?
Join Sister Cities International Board Director and UK Country Representative Joe Blackman MBE for a relaxed international mixer bringing together founders, creatives, investors, civic leaders, citizen diplomats and globally minded locals.
What to expect
Meet international visitors and local leaders
Connect with members of the Sister Cities network
Enjoy live music from visiting artists from Wales and Northern England
Programme
11.30am – Mixer Opens
12.15pm – Welcome by Joe Blackman MBE and a short discussion with Focus Wales and Mick Ross from Generator and on UK music and cultural diplomacy.
1.15pm onwards – Networking with the best live music from Wales and Northern England across both UK House stages, continuing through the afternoon.
If you are in Austin during SXSW and interested in global engagement, diplomacy, innovation, culture or international collaboration, and would like to hear some outstanding UK music artists, we would be delighted to welcome you.
This is not a guarantee of entry, and participation is subject to capacity. SXSW Badge Holders have priority access.
About Joe Blackman MBE
Joe Blackman MBE is a Welsh entrepreneur and investor based in Austin, Texas. He founded and led a global events company with offices in Wales, London and New York, producing high profile private, corporate and diplomatic events around the world. He now focuses on investments across the hospitality, creative industries and technology sectors. He serves on the Global Board of Sister Cities International.
About Sister Cities International
Across the United States, more than 400 cities participate in over 1,800 partnerships spanning more than 140 countries through Sister Cities International. Founded by President Dwight D. Eisenhower and celebrating its 70th anniversary this year, the organization remains the world’s largest citizen diplomacy network. The United Kingdom alone maintains more than 70 active Sister City partnerships with communities across the United States.
About Generator
Generator is the United Kingdom’s leading music development organisation. Since 1991 it has supported music talent, creative entrepreneurs and music businesses by providing the tools, networks and platforms needed to grow internationally. Through artist development programmes, industry partnerships and export initiatives, Generator helps emerging talent and creative companies access new markets and opportunities.
generator.org.uk
@generatorhq
About Wales
Wales is home to a vibrant, diverse and internationally recognised music scene, with globally successful artists spanning genres from indie and alt‑rock to electronic, folk and contemporary pop. This creative strength is backed by significant investment from Creative Wales and the Department for Business and Trade, whose support helps artists, labels and industry partners develop their craft, build sustainable careers and connect with audiences worldwide.
Through targeted initiatives, export programmes and international showcasing opportunities, Wales’ music sector is deepening its global reach—collaborating with festivals, industry networks and cultural partners across Europe, North America and beyond.
SXSW offers a major platform to spotlight emerging and established Welsh talent, strengthening cultural exchange, forging new industry partnerships, and amplifying Wales’ creative voice with audiences across the United States.
Northern Music Export Office
The Northern Music Export Office connects artists and music businesses from the North of England with global audiences, markets and industry partners.
Powered by Generator and supported by the North East, Tees Valley, Liverpool City Region and West Yorkshire Combined Authorities, the Export Office works to showcase Northern talent internationally through showcases, trade missions, touring support and industry partnerships.
@northernmusicexport