The United States Embassy in Malawi has said creatives can unlock and boost their economic potential through collaboration with their counterparts beyond the borders.
This was highlighted at the ongoing 10-day Master Class workshop taking place in Lilongwe led by the Next Level Academy, a team of professional hip hop artists from the United States.
The workshop focuses on enhancing skills in dance, street art, beat-making and MC’ing to foster artistic and entrepreneurial growth among Malawi’s young talent.
Speaking at the event yesterday, US Embassy engagement coordinator Amanda Van Duynhoven said the programme is part of the Global Music Diplomacy Initiative which aims to harness music, not only as a means of artistic expression, but also a vehicle for entrepreneurship and civic engagement within the creative economy.
She noted that Malawi has talent and that it is in the interest of the embassy to provide artists with tools and resources to amplify their skills and gain wider recognition.
“There is potential and talent here that is why we were able to bring the Next Level team who can collaborate and do an exchange programme, giving their instruction and experience to our Malawian audience in the creative space,” said Van Duynhoven.
In a separate interview, Next Level team leader MeccaGodZilla said the workshop’s mission is to bridge the entrepreneurial gap for African artists, many of whom look to the US for inspiration.
He noted that while it is valuable to look up to established creative hubs like the US, it is also essential for African artists to establish their own frameworks for success.
“Right now, African artists are making waves in the global music industry. There is a need to bridge the divide of entrepreneurship to allow local talent earn income and grow,” MeccaGodZilla said.
The team leader added that collaboration is a crucial driver of growth in the creative industry and encouraged Malawian artists to work together to maximise their potential.
Local creatives attending the workshop have already begun to feel its impact.
Visual artist Francis Kapinda hailed the programme for equipping participants with entrepreneurial tools that will turn their artistic works into sustainable businesses.
“We now understand how we can leverage our talents and technical skills to build successful enterprises and brands,” he said.
Kweza Arts Hub director Q Malewezi expressed appreciation for the programme’s emphasis on capacity building.
He said exposing local artists to principles of creative entrepreneurship will contribute significantly to Malawi’s vision of industrialisation and economic growth.
“This programme is a key step in strengthening our creative economy. By equipping local creatives with business skills, they are not only able to advance personally, but can also contribute to the country’s economy,” Malewezi said.
The workshop will conclude with an event that will allow participants to showcase what they have learnt at the training.
