Chart-topping R&B/soul singer Tems is launching a new program called The Leading Vibe Initiative in an effort to support young women who want to learn and get involved with the music business, Billboard can announce Wednesday (July 2).
The singer, songwriter and entrepreneur from Lagos, Nigeria, is planning a two-day seminar for between 15 and 20 women in Lagos “to provide opportunities for participants to hone their craft, sharpen industry knowledge, and build community,” according to a press release.
The program, which will be held Aug. 8 and 9, will bring together participants with industry executives and creatives for meet and greets, training sessions on songwriting and music production, studio sessions, panel discussions, and tutorials on different aspects of the music business; participants will also receive production software and other resources, the release states. The mentors and speakers who will be part of the program will be announced at a later date. The program is intended to expand beyond Lagos to additional cities in Africa in the future.
Applicants can apply here by the July 13 deadline.
“My goal with the Leading Vibe Initiative is to help discover and support talented young women who have the potential to redefine the industry,” Tems said in a statement. “By providing access, tools and opportunity, we’re creating space for them to find their voices, step into their power and shape the future of music across the continent and globally.”
Tems is one of the most successful artists of her generation, with her mix of R&B, soul, Afrobeats, alté and more producing a singular sound that is distinct from many others in the crossover wave of African artists in the past half-decade. She’s racked up two Grammys — the first Nigerian artist with two — as well as two top 10 Billboard Hot 100 hits, including one No. 1, and 10 top 10 Billboard U.S. Afrobeats Songs top 10s, including two No. 1s. She also has an ownership stake in the MLS franchise San Diego FC.
