About Us
Kevin Rogers Cobus
Ever since I was a kid, music has been part of my life. My parents were involved in artist management in the 1970s, so our home was always filled with music and conversations about the industry. Years later I formed my own indie band, Shoemaker Levee, which is still performing today. Through that journey I developed a strong passion for helping fellow musicians understand how to navigate the many pitfalls that can come with building a career in music.
Right now, the music community is at an inflection point. With the rise of AI and an increasing focus on numbers and metrics, many independent artists feel like the hill has become too steep to climb. But there is also a tremendous opportunity in front of us. Indie artists can come together, share knowledge, and build real community.
That means supporting organizations that genuinely want to help artists grow, and standing alongside like minded musicians who believe that together we can accomplish far more than we ever could alone.
That's what Amplify Canada is all about: community, support, education, and a healthy dose of why we all got started in this crazy business to begin with.
Laurie Baker, PhD
As the Executive Director of the Treefrog Accelerator, I lead programs and teams that help early-stage startups grow into scalable, investment-ready companies. Trained as an anthropologist, I bring a Ph.D.-level understanding of human behaviour into the worlds of entrepreneurship, marketing, and innovation.
My career spans digital strategy, brand building, and global communications. I have built and led marketing teams at Treefrog Inc. and overseen international communications for a Canadian outdoor apparel brand, working across markets and industries to translate complex ideas into compelling narratives and actionable strategies.
Yet, I am a founder at heart (builders gotta build!). Most recently, I launched Origyn, a fashion startup focused on creating durable, design-forward accessories using innovative plant-based leather. I bring the passion for entrepreneurship, which often means having the courage to take the road less traveled, and the genuine desire to see indie musicians build and grow their communities.