Tems’ LVI initiative: Empowering Women in the Nigerian Music Industry & beyond
The Nigerian music scene is vibrant and rapidly evolving. However, like many creative industries globally, it presents unique challenges for women seeking to thrive. Recognizing this,superstar Tems launched “Leading Voices Initiative” (LVI),a groundbreaking program designed to empower female creatives and foster a more inclusive music ecosystem. this article delves into the impact of LVI, its key components, and its potential to reshape the future of African music.
Addressing Systemic Barriers
For too long, women in music have faced disproportionate hurdles. These range from needing to work twice as hard for recognition to navigating unrealistic expectations surrounding their image and artistry. Tems, herself a powerful force in the industry, understood these struggles firsthand and sought to create a space for change.
“I wanted to spotlight the incredible women across the Nigerian music industry who have navigated their careers on their own terms,” Tems explained to the Guardian. “I wanted participants to hear from people with first-hand experiance who could truly empathise with the struggles.”
A Stellar Lineup & Practical Skill-Building
LVI wasn’t just about inspirational talks; it was about equipping participants with the tools they need to succeed.The program boasted an notable roster of speakers, including:
Sasha P: A veteran rapper and pioneer in the Nigerian hip-hop scene.
Joyce Olong: A renowned vocal coach.
Bloody Civilian: A highly sought-after producer-songwriter, whose credits include work on Black Panther: Wakanda Forever.
Beyond these prominent figures, LVI offered practical workshops and masterclasses. These sessions covered crucial topics like:
Long-term career strategy: Developing a lasting path for success.
Creative autonomy: Maintaining control over your artistic vision.
Technical skills: Utilizing industry-standard software like iZotope to enhance production quality.Industry leaders from Sony and Global Music Africa also shared their expertise, offering insights into A&R and executive-level decision-making.
The Importance of Image & Collaboration
Lola Ige, Head of Marketing at Sony Music West Africa, highlighted a critical aspect of navigating the industry.”For many women, breaking through means having to work twice as hard to be taken seriously, while also shouldering expectations around how they should look, sound, or present themselves.” Her panel focused on building a strong personal brand and assembling a supportive team.
The initiative also fostered a sense of community. Participants like Pearl Ehanire emphasized the value of networking and collaboration. “One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced in my music journey is access, particularly to knowledge, mentorship, and the right gear,” Ehanire shared. “I’ve also been able to connect with so many amazing female creatives in the industry… I’m unimaginably grateful for the experience.”
Expanding the Reach: Nairobi & Beyond
The success of the inaugural LVI in Lagos has spurred plans for expansion. A second edition is slated to take place in Nairobi, kenya, in the coming weeks, with further events planned across the continent and globally.
This expansion reflects a growing recognition of the need for inclusivity in the African creative sector. as radio host and songwriter Klaire Onyeka aptly put it on Instagram, “The future of african music is female and connected.”
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Disclaimer: This article is based on facts from The Guardian and aims to provide a comprehensive overview of Tems’ Leading Voices Initiative.
