Firstly, Braines told me about his experience growing up in Sunderland and the lack of diversity or any infrastructure to facilitate representation, meaning that the realisation that he was bisexual came very late on. As Sunderland lacked a queer nightlife scene, Newcastle became a more multicultural escape as clubs were an important space for LGBTQ people to meet in a safe space or find partners at a time before apps like Grindr were an option. This segregation of space and people based on sexuality is an aspect of clubbing that Braines, and co-founder Sophia Kearney, wanted to combat through He.She.They., creating not just "safe spaces" but "brave spaces". Places where someone of any background can meet people from all walks of life and create bonds that break down barriers and misconceptions, where humanity is afforded to all genders, races, sexualities, and religions, all facilitated by fantastic house and techno. The organisation’s success lies not simply in the music, but also how fun plays a central role in Braines' vision for change. The events feel lively and pumped with an energy that radiates through everyone in the audience.
Braines was keen to mention that the lineups are not in any way exclusionary. Just like the record label of the same name, talent is the main factor when picking the DJs, then shuffled accordingly so that there is a diverse mix of artists in every lineup. The dancers and performers also vary in body size, shape, race, and background, contrary to the majority of gay and straight clubs which pander to the male gaze. This representation onstage reflects the myriad of people in the audience and gives power and agency to anyone who feels marginalised in other spaces.
He.She.They. is a powerhouse of an organisation, recognised for its importance in the dance music scene by being invited to host a show on BBC Radio 1 Dance. Braines was delighted at the opportunity to widen its audience and therefore its impact. "Radio 1 means that we are centralising inclusivity. It is not something on the sidelines but an issue that should be center stage," Braines said. Coachella, Glastonbury, Creamields and so many more have also felt the grace of He.She.They.
Already in 22 countries, I was intrigued as to what the next steps are for Steven and Sophia, and where their passion and creativity would take them. "There are always more countries, we are expanding into more of Europe as well as Central and South America!" he said. Braines’s zealousness meant that he was nominated for LGBTQ Leader of the Year at the National Diversity Awards, a major and well-deserved achievement. ‘"As a Sunderland kid who was unsure of who he really was, this is a massive honour," he said. He described the move from working in the record industry to doing something that he loves, with a social responsibility, as a full circle moment and highly rewarding. Steven’s vision for creating change through facilitating conversations for seamless diversity will lead him into whatever field he directs his attention to, be it TV, film, or even education. Whatever industry he graces his passion and drive with will undeniably feel his impact and reap the benefits.
HE.SHE.THEY presents Groove Armada at NX on Saturday 7 December at 11pm.
