advisory board

We are honoured to be advised by Randolph Matthews and Janine Irons - respected leaders whose work, influence and longstanding commitment to the arts continue to shape and strengthen the cultural landscape across Northern Ireland, the UK and beyond.

Collectively, they bring extensive expertise in artist development, cultural leadership, community engagement and creative infrastructure. Their insight, advocacy and strategic support help guide Soultrane’s growth and strengthen our ambition to build a lasting cultural home for soul, jazz and music of Black origin.

The Soultrane Advisory Board operates in a non-governing capacity, providing independent guidance, challenge and support to help maximise our long-term impact, sustainability and contribution to the cultural sector.

Randolph Matthews

Vocalist, Composer & Multidisciplinary Artist

Randolph Matthews is an acclaimed vocalist, composer and multidisciplinary artist whose work blends soul, jazz, African musical traditions and experimental sound. With an international career spanning performance, education and creative leadership, he is widely recognised for his innovative artistic practice and his commitment to storytelling through music.

A long-standing advocate and supporter of Soultrane from its earliest stages, Randolph has played an important role as both mentor and creative champion to Soultrane artists and the wider community. Through this ongoing involvement, he brings a deep understanding of Soultrane’s journey to date, the current cultural landscape and the opportunities that exist to grow its impact and realise its long-term vision.

As an advisor, Randolph provides artistic insight, international perspective and a strong commitment to cultural connection and creative excellence. His guidance helps strengthen Soultrane’s creative development and supports our mission to celebrate, preserve and grow soul culture and music of Black origin across Northern Ireland and beyond.

Co‑Founder & CEO - Tomorrow’s Warriors

Janine Irons OBE

Janine Irons OBE is a renowned creative producer and cultural leader, best known as Co-Founder and Chief Executive of Tomorrow’s Warriors — one of the UK’s most influential music education and jazz talent development organisations. For more than three decades, she has championed emerging artists, particularly those from Black and underrepresented communities, helping shape a new generation of internationally recognised talent and transform the landscape of British jazz.

Her work has become synonymous with artistic excellence, opportunity creation and building sustainable pathways for diverse voices to thrive within the music industry.

As a Soultrane advisor, Janine brings visionary leadership, deep sector knowledge and a lifelong commitment to nurturing creativity, talent and cultural change. Her experience in developing artists, building community and creating lasting cultural infrastructure helps guide Soultrane’s mission and strengthens our ambition to create meaningful impact and long-term opportunities through soul, jazz and music of Black origin across all communities.