Martell Swift Academy Opens Applications for Nairobi’s Emerging Music Creatives

Applications are now open for the inaugural Martell Swift Academy, a pan-African talent development programme created by Martell and curated by Africa House.

The programme is inviting emerging artists, producers, songwriters and music industry professionals based in Nairobi to apply for an opportunity to gain mentorship, practical skills, industry exposure and creative collaboration.

A total of 25 participants will be selected for the Nairobi edition, which will combine hands-on learning, mentorship, industry access, networking and continued creative development.

All in-person activities will take place in Nairobi. Selected participants will be responsible for arranging and funding their own travel, accommodation, meals, local transportation and other expenses related to attending the programme.

What participants will receive

Participants will gain access to professional tools tailored to their development needs, direct mentorship from industry experts, a network of peers and collaborators across four markets, as well as a grant.

The Nairobi programme will feature mentors from different areas of the music and creative industries, including Bensoul, singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist; Michael Gachiri, filmmaker and creative director; Anyiko Owoko, music publicist and curator; Njerae, singer, songwriter and producer; and Joey Akan, music journalist and cultural commentator.

The programme will also feature practical workshops, panel discussions and networking sessions.

Following the initial academy programme, participants will have access to a creative hub for an additional three weeks, providing an opportunity to further develop their projects, apply lessons from the programme and collaborate with fellow creatives.

The programme will culminate in a showcase celebrating the participants’ creative progress.