Maddy Kilsby-McMurray is a non-binary poet who lives in Southend on Sea. Originally from Western Australia, they now live by the sea with their wife and their dogs. They have always been a writer, scribbling short stories in the margins of their notebooks when they should have been paying attention to maths. As they got older, writing became therapy, a way to process a world that is too busy, too harsh and too fast for their queer, disabled heart. They write trash fire poetry, which is written in haste and often destined for the fire. They can often be found at poetry events across South Essex, including Southend Pride Poetry and Dangerous Poetry. They were the winner of the first Queertopia Poetry Slam. Their poems can be found littered around Southend and Westcliff, on lampposts and telephone poles. But if you’re not local, you can find some of their work on Instagram and Substack at @trashfirepoet

We are a Music Charity in Southend-on-Sea, Essex, using the power of music to bring communities together — reducing isolation, improving wellbeing, and inspiring inclusive, creative social connections. Maria Moon, Founder & Director of Maria Moon Music CIC Maria has been passionate about music since childhood, beginning her musical journey at just three years old. At 16, she became a Community Officer in her hometown, leading music, storytelling, and cultural activities to inspire connection through creativity. ​ With over 25 years of experience teaching, conducting choirs, and directing hundreds of musicals, Maria has shared her expertise across schools, community groups, and international stages. She has also served as a GEMS Choir Festival Judge in Dubai for five years, blending leadership and musical excellence. ​ Her formal training includes qualifications from Trinity College London (ATCL in Voice), ABRSM in Piano and Music Theory, and a Master’s in Educational Leadership from the University of Nottingham. She has performed worldwide, appearing on television (MBC1), at the BBC Proms, in the Abu Dhabi Arena, and as a member of the Dubai Opera House’s official choir. ​ A versatile musician, Maria plays piano, African drums, percussion, ukulele, recorder, harmonica, and ocarina. She integrates methodologies from the Music Play Early Childhood Curriculum, Paul Harris (Faber Music), Sarah Tenant-Flowers (BBC Choir Master), and Edwin Gordon’s music learning theory, creating a unique approach that blends classical knowledge with community-based accessibility. ​ Today, Maria is dedicated to making music a transformational, inclusive, and joyful experience for all—particularly those who might not otherwise have access to this life-changing art form.