Nigerian singer Tiwa Savage has announced the launch of the Tiwa Savage Music Foundation, aimed at nurturing African talent across the music industry.
The foundation’s first initiative, Berklee in Nigeria: Tiwa Savage Intensive Music Program, will take place in Lagos from 23–26 April 2026, training 100 students in live performance, songwriting, music production, and music business.
The foundation seeks to support not just artists but the wider ecosystem of music professionals, including producers, engineers, composers, and entertainment executives.
Savage emphasized the importance of developing these roles, saying “Afrobeats has captured the world’s attention but an industry cannot stand on artists alone… If we do not intentionally develop them, we weaken the very house we are trying to grow.”
Savage cited her own scholarship experience at Berklee College of Music as transformative, expanding her understanding of global music systems and highlighting that while talent is universal, access is not.
The four-day Lagos program, run in partnership with Berklee College of Music, will culminate in a live showcase blending West African musical traditions with global music styles.
Participants will receive career guidance, and select students may earn scholarships for further study at Berklee.
Applications are open until 20 March 2026, and tuition is free, though students are responsible for travel and accommodation costs.
Jim Lucchese said the collaboration reflects the college’s commitment to global access to music education through its accomplished alumni.
The Tiwa Savage Music Foundation plans to expand opportunities for African creatives, providing structured training, mentorship, and resources to help build sustainable careers in the music industry.
