Twenty-five emerging music creatives and professionals have been officially selected for the Nairobi edition of Swift Academy, a pan-African talent development platform created by Martell and curated by Africa House.
Among the standout participants joining the cohort are Abigael Diana of Ongeza Volume, Sonya Bitengo, Wanjiru Ngothi, Tipilda Roimen, Shillah Elllah, Wanjiku Mungai, Sam Are, and Keya Frankline.
The cohort was formally introduced at an industry mixer in Nairobi, uniting the newly chosen participants, program mentors, and leading figures from across the creative sectors to mark the official launch of the initiative.
Over the coming weeks, the program will offer mentor-led conversations, breakout sessions, hands-on workshops, and creative collaboration opportunities. Participants will also gain critical access to key industry resources, including studio time, professional development support, and dedicated community spaces. The Academy will culminate in October with a final showcase and progress presentations, allowing the cohort to share the work developed during the program.
A diverse team of established industry leaders will mentor the participants throughout the journey:
- Bensoul: Singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist
- Monica Kemoli: Music and culture executive
- Anyiko Owoko: Music publicist and curator
- Njerae: Singer, songwriter, and producer
- Joey Akan: Music journalist and cultural commentator
The program’s first formal session kicks off with a panel conversation featuring the mentorship team. Mentors will share practical insights on navigating the industry, key career lessons, and strategies for building sustainable paths within the music ecosystem.
“Swift Academy was created to give emerging creatives and professionals access to the people, knowledge, and opportunities that can help them grow with greater confidence and direction,” said Lanre Odutola, Head of Culture & Partnerships at Martell. “Our goal is to create meaningful access, encourage collaboration, and give participants the practical support to strengthen their skills.”
For Africa House, the caliber of the selected cohort reflects the immense depth of talent in the region. “The quality and range of applications received showed how much ambition and talent already exists within Nairobi’s creative ecosystem,” noted Jade Kelly Wilson, Co-founder of Africa House. “What these 25 participants now have is an opportunity to learn from experienced practitioners, exchange ideas, and gain access to relationships and resources that can help them take the next step.”
To ensure long-term impact, support will extend beyond the in-person program through virtual check-ins and continued mentorship.