YouTube Music takes Future Insiders programme to Nigeria

First launched in the US, Future Insiders is an initiative in partnership with 1500 Sound Academy to equip at-risk and underserved young people with an interest in the music and creative industries. It will support 10 full scholarships to the academy’s Live Online 1500 Music and Industry Fundamentals programme.

To be held over four days, the Future Insiders programme will offer an avenue for young people aged 18 to 25 interested in music and tech to learn the ropes from the YouTube Music team, musicians and industry experts. 

The news follows a June announcement that YouTube Music had expanded its #YouTubeBlack Voices Fund scholarship to include songwriters and producers ahead of the 2022 application phase.

“We are delighted to embark on this project with YouTube as we believe that music, tech and the youth are key catalysts to a progressive future,” The Temple Company founder and CEO Idris Olorunnimbe said. “We are very excited to bring together the meaningful work of the #YouTubeBlack Voices Fund with The Temple Company’s longstanding efforts to empower and promote the artistic aspirations of African creatives.”

YouTube head of music for sub-Saharan Africa Addy Awofisayo said: “The Temple Company has long been a fixture of the African entertainment industry and we are honoured to partner with them on this important work.”

Actress and singer Bisola Aiyeola has been announced as Future Insiders host, while rapper Zlatan Ibile and music producer P.Priime have been programmed as panellists for the programme. They will be speaking about the topic, Creating an Identity and Protecting Your Sound. Other speakers are lawyer and artist manager Jumoke Olayiwola and PR and artist branding expert Stephanie Okocha. 

The workshop will be held from 27 to 30 September and broadcast live from the Ogidi Studios in Lagos.