Why We Set Up Music Business Academy for Africa – Godwin Tom
Godwin Tom, the CEO of Nigeria’s foremost talent management company, iManage Africa has explained why the company set up the Music Business Academy (MBA) for Africa programme.
Tom told Neusroom on Monday that the academy is intended to further the efforts of building a more informed and empowered workforce for the African entertainment industry.
MBA for Africa is curated by Godwin Tom in collaboration with Carlos Chirinos-Espin Ph.D of the New York University’s Music Business Programme.
Godwin Tom, who has managed some of the biggest names in the Nigerian music industry like Ice Prince, Beverly Naya, Bez, Yung6ix, Lola Rae, Dj Ruud and Dj Obi among others, said, “When I started out in this industry, there was nowhere to learn about the business and so I, like many of my peers, had to make so many mistakes and it took me years to realise I had been doing so many things wrong.”
He added, “this programme will change that for younger ones coming and even for those already in the business. There are over 1200 universities on the continent and none offers music business as a course, yet. We are hoping that this effort causes a shift across Africa.”
This year’s edition of the programme, which is in partnership with digital music business information and strategy company, Music Ally, will see a line-up of accomplished individuals drawn from different sectors of the economy serve on the advisory board.
Anthony Churchman, the Commercial Director at Music Ally said, “Music Ally is delighted to be partnering with iManage Africa to build and support the next generation of African music business entrepreneurs. Combining a global industry standard vocational curriculum, delivered by a passionate team sensitive to local dynamics, Music Business Academy Africa will ignite new career opportunities and set this vibrant musical continent on the path to reach its full potential.”
Dr. Carlos who, along with Godwin Tom, developed the curriculum added, “Nigeria boasts an amazing amount of musical talent. Investing in the next generation of music business managers and entrepreneurs will develop the music industry and contribute to the social and economic growth of Nigeria.”
