WELCOME TO HELSINKI, FINLAND – THE CAPITAL OF METAL
In cooperation with Music Finland, Nahka Agency creates a space for music industry professionals to network, discover fresh talent, and exchange knowledge in Helsinki, the Capital of Metal.
WTF Capital of Metal Showcase & Conference promotes Finnish Metal, opens networking doors for up‑and‑coming industry professionals, and strengthens the connections of the international metal community with a yearly event in Helsinki, Finland.
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WTF CAPITAL OF METAL 2026: SHOWCASE
WTF CAPITAL OF METAL 2026: CONFERENCE
This year’s edition of the Capital of Metal Conference encompasses four expert panels moderated by German‑Ecuadorian Metal journalist Cristina “Kiki” Mlynek, founder of the Bleeding Metal Podcast and the driving force behind Tuska Forum (the festival‘s live interview program) since 2023.
Together, we have created a safe space to discuss the following topics with a star-studded speaker lineup:
Thursday, August 6, 2026
14:45–15:30 at Semifinal
Make Finland Weird Again: With insights from booking agents, managers, and musicians, this panel dives deep into the golden era of global exports to the question of whether Finland is ready to take back that crown.
Speakers: Benny Bats (Triple Bookings), Iida‑Sofia Saukkoriipi (Alt Agency / Otter Management), and Petri Lindroos (Ensiferum, Norther, Warmen).
Thursday, August 6, 2026
15:40–16:25 at Semifinal
Curating, Reacting & other Promotion will examine how artists actually get seen: on stage, on screen, and on streaming platforms, unpacking the tools to build the strongest fanbase and cut through the noise of our era.
Speakers: Sini Tiainen (Qobuz), Aki Juvonen (NEM Agency), and Sandy SYN (Sandstorm Music).
Thursday, August 6, 2026
16:35–17:20 at Semifinal
Baby Bands to Grown Rockstars: From strategic planning and creative support to resilience, networking, and global positioning, these music business experts will reflect on what foundations must be built early on to ensure long, sustainable careers for emerging bands.
Speakers: Lulu Davis (Bands Management / Raising Rockstars), Maria Uusitalo (LUNA KILLS Management), and Jacob Mackintosh (Northern Music Company).
Friday, August 7, 2026
10:45-11:30 at The Train Factory
Connecting International Music Markets explores how scenes grow across borders, how cultural bridges are built through collaboration, and how to spot emerging markets before everyone else.
Speakers: John Sprich (Bands Management / Euroblast), Lina Khatib (World Metal Congress), and Unai García Fernández (Cowboy Media).