Jamaica Moana, an award-winning Australian non-binary performer, songwriter, and ballroom leader of Maori and Samoan heritage, will embark on a three-city tour of India this week as part of Pride Month, according to a statement from the Australian High Commission on Tuesday.
Tour Details and Performances
Jamaica will travel to Delhi, Bengaluru, and Chennai. In Delhi, she will participate in an exclusive conversation with internationally acclaimed singer, performer, and actor Sushant Divgikar (Rani KoHenur), facilitated by Australia's High Commissioner to India, Philip Green. She will also perform at Depot48, a leading independent music venue known for its inclusive and diverse programming. In Bengaluru, Jamaica will join artist, archivist, and writer Mira Brunner from the National Law School of India for a special discussion on queer narratives.
Cultural Diplomacy and Inclusion
High Commissioner Philip Green welcomed Jamaica to India during Pride Month, emphasizing the role of cultural diplomacy in promoting inclusion and equality. "Pride Month is an opportunity to celebrate diversity in all its forms and reaffirm our commitment to equality and inclusion," Green said. "Our contemporary artists reflect the richness of modern Australia, including the strength and visibility of our LGBTQIA+ communities. Jamaica's work speaks to universal themes of identity, respect, and belonging, and strengthens the deep human connections between Australia and India."
Jamaica's Perspective
For Jamaica, the visit to India represents a deeply meaningful opportunity to connect with representatives of the LGBTQIA+ community and Indian audiences more broadly. "Music and performance give me a way to understand myself and connect with others; I carry my ancestors, my community and my experiences with me wherever I go," Jamaica said. "I'm excited to visit India, share stories, build new connections and learn from the incredible people I meet along the way."
Creative Collaborations
Over the past year, Jamaica has forged creative ties with Indian artists, meeting Rashmeet Kaur and joining Mumbai-based producer Hashbass on stage at the Bangkok Music City Festival. A collaborative release with Hashbass is expected in late 2026.
Broader Pride Month Initiatives
Jamaica's visit is part of the Australian High Commission's broader Pride Month programming and year-round initiatives to promote gender equality and LGBTQIA+ rights. Other initiatives include screening the iconic 1994 Australian queer cult classic film The Adventures of Priscilla, Queen of the Desert in partnership with PVR INOX, and a community mela in partnership with Depot48 spotlighting LGBTQIA+ artisans. The High Commission also commissioned a mural by Gumbaynggirr artist Aretha Brown with the Aravani Art Project.
About Jamaica Moana
Jamaica Moana is an Australian rapper, songwriter, creative director, and ballroom leader from Western Sydney. Proud of her Maori (Ngapuhi/Tainui) and Samoan heritage, her work sits at the intersection of music, fashion, performance, and community. Blending rap, R&B, soul, and alternative pop influences, she has performed at major international festivals and venues including the Sydney Opera House, Dark Mofo, SXSW Austin, Bangkok Music City, and The Great Escape in Brighton. In 2025, she received FBi Radio's SMAC Award for Best Live Act and SXSW Sydney's inaugural Walk to Austin Award. Beyond music, Jamaica is a respected leader within Australia's ballroom community and co-founder of The West Ball, a platform creating opportunities for queer, trans, First Nations, and culturally diverse communities to connect, celebrate, and lead.
