Applications are now open for the Nairobi edition of Swift Academy, the pan-African talent development platform created by Martell and curated by Africa House to support emerging music creatives and professionals with mentorship, practical development, industry access and collaboration.
At the heart of the Nairobi edition is a mentor network bringing together experts from different parts of the music and creative industries. From songwriting and artist development to visual storytelling, communications and music journalism, each mentor brings a distinct perspective on what it takes to build, navigate and sustain a career withinAfrica’s evolving music ecosystem.
Bensoul – Singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist
One of Kenya’s leading contemporary artists, Bensoul brings experience spanning songwriting, performance, collaboration and independent artist development. His career offers participants a first-hand perspective on developing a distinctive creative identity while building a sustainable path within the music industry.
Speaking on his involvement, the singer quipped: “Raw passion and talent are everywhere, but what truly changes the game for a young creative is having access to guidance, structure, and real industry knowledge. Being part of Swift Academy allows me to give back and help nurture that fire in the next generation. When young people are given the space to learn, experiment, and collaborate without limits, their potential becomes unstoppable. I’m very excited to walk alongside the participants as they refine their craft.”
Monica Kemoli – Music and Culture Executive
Monica Kemoli is a Nairobi-based music and culture executive with experience across artist development, music strategy, creative partnerships and the growth of Africa’s music ecosystem. Having worked with artists, managers and labels across roles at Spotify and Platoon, she brings practical insight into artist development, release strategy, music marketing, creative partnerships and building sustainable careers in music.
Anyiko Owoko – Music Publicist and Curator
A communications strategist, publicist and music industry tastemaker, Anyiko Owoko brings extensive experience across music, culture and entertainment. Through her work in PR, artist development, storytelling and industry positioning, she will share practical insight into how emerging creatives and professionals can build their profiles, communicate their work and navigate an increasingly competitive industry.
Njerae – Singer, Songwriter and Producer
Njerae represents a new generation of Kenyan artists building audiences both locally and internationally. Known for her Afro-Indie sound and emotionally honest songwriting, she brings a contemporary artist perspective on creative development, audience connection and navigating the journey from emerging talent to an increasingly global career.
Joey Akan – Music Journalist and Cultural Commentator
Joey Akan is a multi-award-winning music journalist, cultural commentator and creator of Afrobeats Intelligence and The Joey Akan Experience. His work sits at the intersection of music, media and culture, giving participants insight into storytelling, cultural positioning and the wider forces shaping how African music is documented, understood and experienced around the world.
Beyond mentorship
Swift Academy has been designed to bring participants in direct contact with people who understand the realities of building careers across the music ecosystem.
Twenty-five participants will be selected for the Nairobi edition, taking part in practical learning, mentorship, industry access and collaboration. Participants will also receive professional tools tailored to their development needs, access to a wider network of peers and collaborators, and a grant.
Following the initial Academy experience, participants will have access to a creative hub for an additional three weeks, where they can continue developing their work, apply what they have learned and collaborate with others. The programme will culminate in a showcase celebrating their progress.
Applications for the Nairobi edition of Swift Academy is open and close on 28 August 2026.
Apply at: https://tally.so/r/VL74LE
For more information visit https://www.martell.com/en/swift-academy-kenya/ Instagram @martellofficial and @africahousemembersclub
