Available to hire
I’m Heather Maxwell, a television host, writer and producer with international broadcast experience across Africa and beyond. My work with Voice of America, CBS/Fremantle and regional networks has me shaping live content, features and audience-engaging programs from Nairobi to Lagos and beyond. I thrive on cross-cultural storytelling and delivering engaging, polished on-air performances.
As a lead vocalist and performer, I bring musical versatility to my hosting and narration. I’m fluent in French and Swahili, skilled in voiceover and AI voice modeling, and experienced in theater and live performance. I love connecting people through culture, music and compelling storytelling.
Skills
Experience Level
Expert
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Language
English
Fluent
French
Fluent
Bambara
Advanced
Swahili
Fluent
Work Experience
English Voice Coach & Speech Evaluator at micro1
December 31, 2025 - PresentProvide advanced English voice coaching focused on pronunciation, pacing, articulation, vocal clarity, and natural conversational delivery. Evaluate spoken English performance for fluency, tone consistency, and audience engagement across live and recorded formats. Support AI and speech-related projects requiring nuanced assessment of spoken-language performance and vocal quality. Deliver feedback on rhythm, emphasis, intonation, and natural speech flow to improve communication quality.
AI Trainer & Music Domain Specialist at Handshake AI
August 31, 2025 - April 30, 2026Developed and evaluated domain-specific prompts for large language models in the music domain. Conducted AI-driven audio analysis of timbral, rhythmic, and melodic components to strengthen model understanding of complex musical topics. Maintained high standards for scientific accuracy, clarity, and musical depth in model outputs.
Broadcast Presenter, Producer & Narrator (English/French) at Voice of America (VOA) – Music Time in Africa & Africa 54
September 1, 2012 - May 1, 2026Served as an English-language presenter and narrator, with regular French-language voice performance for international radio, television, and digital platforms reaching 100M+ weekly viewers and listeners. Recorded scripted and semi-scripted narration with clear diction, expressive delivery, and broadcast-quality audio. Reviewed and adapted scripts in English and French to improve spoken flow, cultural accuracy, and ease of delivery. Delivered live and pre-recorded performances using teleprompters and cue-based prompts. Produced and voiced 150+ podcasts annually while maintaining vocal consistency and clarity across high-volume output. Collaborated with engineers and editors to ensure clean, high-fidelity recordings across platforms.
Fulbright Scholar (Teaching & Research in French & Bambara) at Conservatoire des Arts et Métiers Multimédia (Fulbright)
August 1, 2011 - May 1, 2012Conducted all instruction and research in French and Bambara; taught, evaluated, and corrected spoken language performance with close attention to pronunciation and clarity. Led ensemble recordings and performances for national broadcast and festivals.
Fulbright Scholar (Teaching and Research in Ethnomusicology) at Conservatoire des Arts et Métiers Multimédia, Bamako, Mali
January 1, 2011 - January 1, 2012Fulbright teaching and research appointment in ethnomusicology; curriculum design and ensemble leadership; contributed to national festivals and recording sessions.
French & ESL Instructor at Louisa County Public Schools
July 27, 2008 - April 26, 2011Taught high school French (Levels I & II) and ESL. Trained students in accurate pronunciation, conversational flow, and listening comprehension. Designed and delivered instructional scripts in both French and English.
Voice Actor, Vocalist & Audio Producer at Heather Maxwell Music
December 31, 2007 - PresentRecord professional vocal performances for stage, broadcast, and digital media. Deliver expressive performances with precise control of tone, timing, and articulation. Work in professional studio environments using industry-standard recording equipment and DAWs. Apply critical listening skills to evaluate and refine audio quality. Internationally recognized vocalist and performer known for dynamic stage presence, multilingual performance, and storytelling.
• Performs in multiple languages (English, French, Bambara, more)
• Extensive international touring (Africa, Caribbean, U.S.)
• Solo artist, bandleader, and featured vocalist
• Strong audience engagement and improvisation
Professor of Music at University of Virginia
January 1, 2003 - January 1, 2008Led and performed music and dance ensembles; created Afro-Pop Festival; designed American music curriculum; taught graduate courses; oversaw staff and multi-cultural teams.
Education
Ph.D. at Indiana University
September 1, 1998 - May 4, 2003Folklore and Ethnomusicology
M.A. at Indiana University
January 11, 1995 - May 1, 1998B.A. Music (Voice) and Ethnomusicology at University of Michigan
September 1, 1983 - December 11, 1989Studies in African Musicology, Xylophone, and Dance at School of Performing Arts, University of Ghana, Legon
November 28, 1987 - June 3, 1988Independent research abroad with University of Michigan
Ph.D. in Folklore & Ethnomusicology at Indiana University Bloomington
January 11, 2030 - June 24, 2026MA in Folklore & Ethnomusicology at Indiana University Bloomington
January 11, 2030 - June 24, 2026BA in Voice Performance & Anthropology at University of Michigan
January 11, 2030 - June 24, 2026Qualifications
Arts Envoy Program
January 11, 2030 - June 24, 2026Industry Experience
Media & Entertainment, Education, Government, Non-Profit Organization, Professional Services, Travel & Hospitality
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