Lagos, Nigeria, is gearing up to become the epicentre of the global music scene as the All Africa Music Awards (AFRIMA), in collaboration with BridgeAfric and UNESCO, prepares to host the Showbiz101 Global Workshop and Music Creation Camp from March 26 to 29.
This landmark event, according to a statement, will bring together an impressive lineup of music business leaders, celebrities, executives and creative industry professionals from across the world, offering a unique platform to train young creatives, foster international collaborations and strengthen the music production and business ecosystem in Africa.
Adenrele Niyi, Chief Experience Officer (CXO) of AFRIMA, emphasised the event’s significance in advancing the continent’s creative industry. “As AFRIMA, part of our mission is building capacity and fostering cross-border collaborations by empowering Africa’s creative industry and by providing platforms for artists to collaborate, grow, and break boundaries,” Niyi stated. She highlighted the natural alignment with BridgeAfric, noting that the partnership is a strategic move to equip young creatives with essential tools, knowledge, and global networks to succeed. “This initiative is about more than just music; it’s about creating opportunities that resonate far beyond the continent,” she added.
The workshop aligns with AFRIMA’s seven foundational pillars, which include the Music Awards, Music Festivals, AFRIMA Creative Academy, Talent Discovery and Promotions, Music Business Hub, Advocacy and Advisory & Policy Debates.
Niyi underscored the organisation’s ambition to position Africa as a powerhouse in the global music industry, stating, “Our goal is to reinforce Africa’s position—one hit, one artiste, one opportunity at a time.”
Victoria Nkong, President of BridgeAfric and an Associate Producer for AFRIMA, echoed this sentiment, emphasising the event’s focus on education and talent development.
“We believe learning is essential to solving problems in the entertainment industry,” Nkong said. “This workshop will equip young people with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed.” The five-day programme will feature a dynamic mix of performances, training sessions, and recording opportunities, culminating in a three-day global music camp where top artists will collaborate to produce a global EP showcasing African talent.
The event promises to be a melting pot of creativity, with confirmed participants including Tanzania’s Juma Jux, South Africa’s Nadia Nakai, and Nigeria’s DJ Neptune. Ivory Coast will make a strong showing with stars like AFRIMA Award winner Didi B, Himra, Suspect 95, Kikimoteleba, Goulam, and Gabin Bao. Other notable figures include Bizzle Osikoya of The Plug Entertainment, Sesan Adeniji of Vybz FM, Algeria’s DJ MohGreen, Eric Bellamy of Live Nation Paris, Canada’s Sonia Aimy, and Malawi’s Wendy Harawa.
Nkong highlighted the workshop’s broader objectives, including connecting African artists with international music executives to expand their reach. “This will open doors for them to promote their music in different parts of the world,” she said.
The event kicks off with a welcome Industry Party on Wednesday, setting the stage for a week of networking, learning, and collaboration.
Registration for the workshop is free, targeting music producers, songwriters and artistes eager to advance their careers. With its blend of education, performance, and global exposure, the Showbiz101 Global Workshop and Music Creation Camp is poised to be a transformative moment for Africa’s creative industry.
