Call for applications: Richard Antwi Scholarship in the UK

The annual scholarship was founded in memory of British-Ghanaian music manager, lawyer and entrepreneur Richard Antwi and is awarded in conjunction with the University of Westminster, to applicants who hold an offer of a place on the university's highly regarded Music Business Management MA course. The course acts as a bridge between academic study, research, and the professional world of the music business, preparing students to become the next generation of music industry leaders and entrepreneurs.

Comprising full course fees, a bursary of £10 500 ($14 200), as well as mentorship and assistance with work placement aligned with the scholar’s professional focus and aspirations, RAS is open to future music industry leaders from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds with the drive, passion and commitment to make a contribution, and who already hold an offer of a place on the Music Business Management MA course at the University of Westminster.

The scholarship is funded by all three UK major record labels, music publishers, and several of the top independent music companies and music law firms: Sony Music UK, Universal Music UK, Warner Music UK, Sony Music Publishing, XL Records, Beggars Group, Young, Clintons, Hoare Associates and Modest! Management.

Last year saw the scholarship award full bursaries to two exceptionally talented scholars Shanice Edwards and Idris Green Holder, the latter of whom received a scholarship supported by Universal Music UK and will be placed into the company’s Graduate Programme as Richard Antwi Graduate Programme Executive.

The scholarship’s industry champions include 0207 Def Jam co-president Alec Boateng, Sony Music UK’s Africa director Taponeswa Mavunga and artist and industry executive Wretch 32.

“The Richard Antwi Scholarship is a route into the industry and the results speak for themselves. I’m so happy to support the call for those with aspirations of making it into the industry,” Mavunga said.

Previous scholars include inaugural recipient Jojo Mukeza, Esther Bokuma (aka Estee Blu), all of whom are now placed within the industry, as well as associate scholars Daniel Beckley and Isatta Sheriff.

Mukeza said: “For the last 18 months I’ve been diligently navigating in this industry trying to find purpose and develop the essential skills needed to be successful in a high pressure, high stakes game. In many moments of isolation and doubt, I have always felt the presence and support of the Richard Antwi Scholarship Team. Almost three years have passed since I graduated and the continued support from the RAS team has been invaluable. I urge anyone that is seated at the corridor of the music business with hopes and dreams of getting into the industry, this is your call to please apply.”

Bokuma added: “Receiving the scholarship has truly been a life-changing experience. It unlocked knowledge and career opportunities that I hadn't considered prior to embarking on the MA course. I have really valued the support of the dedicated scholarship team and course leaders, not only during my degree but beyond graduation. They've been a source of encouragement, support and counsel as I continue to carve out my evolving and dynamic career. I'd encourage everyone who's passionate about building a career in the music industry to come to the Open Day and find out how they can apply for the scholarship.”

The Music Business Management MA course first Open Day of 2022 will take place in person on 2 March. Interested participants can find course details here and the scholarship application form is here.