Meet Savina Fountain from BIG FAN
McDonald Street, Morningside

BIG FAN – Savina Fountain

Position: General Manager

What inspired you to be a part of BIG FAN?
As a working māmā, I wanted to use my time and experience for a greater purpose. Being a part of BIG FAN – a charitable trust with professional-grade recording studios and a purpose-built live music venue – offered the perfect opportunity to combine my passion for music and helping people.

 

What makes BIG FAN unique?
BIG FAN stands out because we have professional-grade recording studios and a purpose-built live music venue, all under one roof. What truly sets us apart is our charitable trust status, which allows us to create a space that embodies creativity, community, and a real commitment to doing good.

 

What’s been your greatest challenge?
Our biggest challenge has been managing our enthusiasm! There are so many amazing ideas for BIG FAN, but we know it’s important to take things one step at a time. It’s all about doing things well and growing sustainably.

 

What’s been your greatest achievement so far?
Our greatest achievement has been forming an incredible team at BIG FAN. We’ve become a tight-knit family – people who genuinely care about this place and are dedicated to making a positive impact on people’s lives.

 

What keeps you motivated?
I’m constantly inspired by the incredible creatives who come through our doors, using our spaces to write songs, create magical moments on stage, and share unforgettable experiences with their audiences. I want to keep helping to create these opportunities!

 

What are your personal strengths?
I’d say my strengths lie in being resourceful, empathetic, and finding value in people – helping them discover their “superpower” and letting it shine.

Who or what inspires you the most?
It might sound cheesy, but I’m inspired by witnessing people’s “Aha!” moments. It’s so rewarding to see someone grasp a concept or skill they’ve been learning and realise how it can help them achieve their goals and dreams.

 

Why did BIG FAN choose to be in The Fringe District?
Our founder, Joel Little, has a deep connection to Morningside – it’s where he started Golden Age Studios, worked with Lorde, and built his remarkable career. When Joel and his wife Gemma found this building, they knew it was perfect for BIG FAN. With the train stop, great eateries, and the strong sense of community, it’s an amazing place to be.

 

What role does BIG FAN play within the community?
Morningside is becoming such a creative hub, and we love being part of its growth. We provide space and opportunities for local talent to thrive, enriching the community with exceptional music and fostering a sense of togetherness.

 

What are the strengths of your neighbourhood?
The strength of our neighbourhood lies in its collective spirit. We look out for one another, support each other, and come together to celebrate the good times – and rally when things get tough. A great example of this was when Crave’s basement flooded. The whole community pulled together to help – it made us all feel like we’re part of something bigger than just a building or street. We’re a community.

 

Why is it important to support local?
We have incredible talent locally, and that’s especially true for music. By nurturing and showcasing the creatives within our community, we help them grow, thrive, and reach their goals both nationally and globally. It creates a full-circle moment – a vibrant local music scene enriches our community and cultural life. Life is simply better with music in it!