Sony Music West Africa hosts maiden She Is... summit in Lagos

According to a statement, the two-day event, held in commemoration of International Women’s Month, formed part of the label’s commitment to “fostering diversity, inclusion and empowerment within the music industry, and looks forward to future initiatives that continue to uplift and celebrate women in music.”

It brought together creatives and music enthusiasts to learn from industry thought leaders through panel sessions and a mixer/networking event.

The first panel, moderated by SMWA marketing manager Omolola Ige, touched on opportunities, ways to stand out, ensuring consistent earnings and avenues for investment. Panellists, including Shecluded founder and CEO Ifeoma Uddoh, Amaka Studio founder Adaora Oramah, BellaNaija chief of staff and strategy Mary Edoro and brand influencer Ivy Ifeoma Iboko, offered perspectives from the creator’s point of view.

The second panel, moderated by SMWA A&R manager Princess Okereugo, delved into discussions about Afrobeats, including its evolution and its potential as a commercially viable global genre. Resource persons for this session included YouTube Music head of music for sub-Saharan Africa Addy Awofisayo, Sony Music director of repertoire and strategy, Continental Europe and Africa Christel Kayibi, broadcaster Taymi B and Glitch Africa head of content Gift Israel.

Day 2 concluded with a mixer attended by more than 150 guests. It featured music performances by F3line, Salle, Elmah and Godwin.

“Knowledge is power and power can be measured by your network,” She Is... lead organiser Blessing Manafa, who is also SMWA’s digital services and partnerships manager, said. “Women in the music industry need to foster closer and more impactful relationships between and within one another. It’s our hope that She Is... is the start of more to come.”