When the Berlin premiere of the HipHop Ball becomes a cultural event, she’s right in the middle of it: Diona Bathily. As the evening’s host, she guides the audience through a night where urban culture merges with classical ball traditions. But she brings more than just her voice – she brings an entire mindset.
Diona is no stranger to the stage. As a radio host at FluxFM, event MC, and journalist, she knows the power of spoken words. But her journey didn’t start on the big stage. “During my very first moderation, I was so nervous I almost cried,” she recalls. Still, she kept going. Small film events, spontaneous gigs, and a willingness to try things out – all of that shaped her voice. A voice that today fills rooms and touches people’s hearts.
A turning point came after finishing her bachelor’s thesis. She had planned to travel, attend festivals, feel free – then the pandemic hit. “I was forced to sit down and ask myself: What do I really want to do?” The answer: connect people. Listen to and share stories. Make knowledge accessible. “I love listening to and sharing stories – so why not turn that into something more?”
That’s how she found her way into journalism and hosting – through a traineeship at FluxFM, where she discovered how fun work could be. At the same time, she began hosting her own events – full of uncertainty, but even more curiosity. Today, interviewees often praise her: “Those were beautiful words,” or “Wow, you really get me” – phrases that keep her going.
For Diona, the HipHop Ball is more than just an event. “I love breaking taboos and going against the norm – people who are excited to reinvent themselves and do something new. Otherwise, it all gets a bit boring.” And that’s exactly what the Ball creates space for: new narratives, diversity, and empowerment. “I hope people start to recognize their own value – not just accept their quirky and wild sides, but learn to love them. And that we dare to dream louder.”
HipHop is part of her daily life – both professionally and personally. As a radio host, she’s constantly surrounded by music. “It fascinates me how artists keep finding ways to create new genres, stir emotions, and write fresh lyrics – even though so many brilliant songs already exist.” Music helps her focus, helps her feel. “It’s the most subtle yet most effective way to feel.”
She’s ready for the night at the Red City Hall – mentally, musically, and fashion-wise. She’s been listening to her favorite rap albums to get in the mood – and for the first time, she’s working with Frankfurt-based designer Liri Hyseni for her outfit. “So yes, the fit is already set.”
And what can guests expect? “This is the very first Berlin edition. That means: the evening is a blank canvas. Everyone who’s there will help shape something brand new. If you’re part of it, you can take credit for it.”
She has clear hopes for the future: more funding* for arts and culture – especially in times when budgets are being cut. And for formats like the HipHop Ball to have the space to grow and shine. “I hope we don’t forget how beautiful and important it is to support the arts. And secretly, I wish I could be part of the Vienna edition one day – because if I didn’t live in Berlin, I’d probably be living in Vienna.”
Diona brings more than just words. She brings curiosity, depth, and a real understanding of the people who create culture. And she brings Berlin to life.
*The HipHop Ball is entirely funded through private means – without any public funding or state support. The entire project exists thanks to the dedication of partners, sponsors, and the community itself.
