DJ Mag announced that its 2025 Top 100 DJs charity campaign raised £170,832 for Bridges for Music, marking the largest single fundraiser in the organization’s history. The initiative united 42 artists from this year’s Top 100 DJs poll to fund education, mental health support, and entrepreneurship programs for young people from underserved communities in South Africa.
How the Campaign Came Together
Bridges for Music is a nonprofit focused on empowering youth through creativity and education. Based in Langa, South Africa’s oldest township, the Bridges Academy provides access to professional-level music training, mental health support, and business development resources. The funds raised through DJ Mag’s campaign will cover full program sponsorships for 170 students, offering them access to mentorship and training that can open real career pathways in music and the wider creative industries.
The campaign began ahead of the Top 100 DJs 2025 results with an opening donation from five-time World’s No. 1 DJ Martin Garrix, who contributed £34,000 to sponsor multiple students. Skrillex later matched that donation, inspiring others to join in. By the time the poll results were announced, 42 percent of artists on the list had donated, collectively raising over £170,000 and setting a new milestone for Bridges for Music.
Building Community Through Music
Valentino Barrioseta, CEO and Founder of Bridges for Music, described the campaign as a reflection of the shared values that underpin dance music culture. “This result reflects the true culture of the dance music community, one built on togetherness, care, and shared experience,” he said. “It shows what’s possible when artists and organizations work collectively to empower the next generation.”
The funds will directly support the next wave of creative talent from under-resourced areas, ensuring they have access to tools and environments where they can learn, collaborate, and grow. Beyond the classroom, the programs help students develop the resilience, confidence, and entrepreneurial mindset needed to build lasting creative careers.
Continuing the Momentum
DJ Mag and Bridges for Music expressed gratitude to every artist who participated in the campaign and invited fans to join the effort. Public donations remain open through the official campaign portal, allowing fans and industry members alike to sponsor student education and contribute to future programs.
Read the full Top 100 DJs results at djmag.com/top100djs. To contribute to the campaign, visit givengain.com/campaign/bfm-dj-mag-100.
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