Nairobi, Kenya, September 9, 2026 — Twenty-five emerging music creatives and industry professionals have been selected for the inaugural Nairobi cohort of Swift Academy by Martell, following the completion of the application process.
Created by Martell and curated by Africa House, Swift Academy is a pan-African talent development platform designed to equip emerging music creatives and professionals with mentorship, practical skills, industry access and networks to help them build sustainable careers.
The Nairobi cohort brings together emerging talent from across the music ecosystem, reflecting the programme’s focus on supporting not only artists and creatives shaping music but also professionals working across the wider industry.
Throughout September, participants will engage in mentor-led conversations, breakout mentorship sessions, workshops, networking mixers and creative collaborations.
They will also gain access to industry resources, including studio time, professional development support and community spaces aimed at helping them translate their ideas and skills into sustainable opportunities.
The programme will culminate in a showcase and progress presentations in October, giving participants an opportunity to present work and ideas developed during the Academy.
Participants will be guided by mentors drawn from different areas of music and culture, including singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Bensoul; music and culture executive Monica Kemoli; music publicist and curator Anyiko Owoko; singer, songwriter and producer Njerae; and music journalist and cultural commentator Joey Akan.
The diverse mentor network reflects Swift Academy’s wider approach to talent development, providing participants with practical insights into creative development, artist strategy, communications, storytelling and navigating the music industry.
The programme will also extend beyond the physical sessions, with participants receiving ongoing virtual check-ins and mentorship.
This continued engagement is intended to help participants apply lessons from the Academy, sustain relationships built during the programme and continue developing their careers beyond the activation period.
Through a combination of practical training, mentorship, industry exposure and continued support, Swift Academy aims to contribute to Nairobi’s growing creative ecosystem while creating stronger pathways for emerging professionals to establish themselves within Africa’s evolving music industry.
