MIAF introduces training programme for women, calls for applications

The course is part of the Foundation’s new initiative titled Music In Africa Gender@Work, a three-year training programme aimed at developing the skills and participation of female professionals in the African music sector.

MIAF fundraising and projects manager Carmel Nair said: "The programme is focussed on addressing gender imbalances within the African music sector by providing opportunities for African women in music to benefit from a wide range of upskilling options to be offered by the programme in in the next three years."

In the first year, participants will be trained on all aspects of stage management by a team of experienced stage managers in November 2019. The programme will offer robust classroom training and practical, hands-on training in which participants will also be given the opportunity to manage various aspects of the ACCES performance programme. In 2020, the programme will diversify its course to include music production lessons and training on other music business topics.

While the stage management training is open to all genders, the final selection of participants will be 80% female and 20% male.

MIAF director Eddie Hatitye says the introduction of the programme marks the beginning of a more concerted effort by the Foundation to support the participation and inclusion of women in all facets of its programmes and the music sector in Africa as a whole.

“In 2020, we will also introduce an inclusive round table dedicated to address issues affecting women in the African music sector,” Hatitye said.

The deadline for applications for the 2019 opportunity has been extended to 31 July 2019 (midnight CAT).

Who can apply?

This call is open to aspirant stage managers based on the continent, with a focus on primary beneficiaries being women.

• Applicants must have at least two (2) years’ experience working in the live performance environment in positions such as stage manager, stage assistant, technical stage assistant, or similar related positions.
• A relevant tertiary qualification (academic) will be advantageous.
• All participants must be over 18 years old.
• Applicants should be prepared to be available for the duration of the programme (24 to 30 November 2019) and available to travel to Accra, Ghana.
• Male applicants are welcome to apply but selection will be 80% women.

Support for participants

• Participants from outside Ghana will receive flight tickets to travel to Accra, Ghana, accommodation, meals, and local transport
• VISA costs will be reimbursed against receipts.
• Participants will be granted full-access passes to ACCES 2019 activities. 

How to apply? 

• Complete and submit the online application form here.
• Email applications will not be considered.
• Ensure that you upload your CV as well as three contactable references.

Please note: The form will not allow applicants to save and complete later. Before you complete it, make sure you have all the required documents that will need to be attached.

Selection process

• Only applications submitted via the dedicated online form will be considered.
• Only complete applications will be considered.
• Late applications will not be considered.
• Successful applicants will be notified by 20 August 2019.
• Applicants who do not hear from the Music In Africa Foundation by 30 August 2019 may consider their application unsuccessful.

For enquiries and information, email claire@musicinafrica.net.

The Music In Africa Gender@Work training programme is made possible with the support of the Prince Claus Fund, MIAF partners, Siemens Stiftung and Goethe-Institut.

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